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The Romeoville Fire Department's K9 Roy will soon receive a new bullet and stab protective vest. The vest is being donated by Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., a non-profit organization focused on supporting working dogs across the United States. According to the department, the vest will be embroidered with the message: “In memory of K9 Spike, Romeoville, IL - EOW 12/22/22.” Delivery of the equipment is expected within ten weeks.
Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. was founded in 2009 as a 501(c)(3) charity to provide body armor and other support for law enforcement dogs and those in related agencies nationwide. Since its start, the group has distributed more than 6,225 vests worth $6.9 million to K9 officers in all fifty states through private and corporate donations. The vests are made in the U.S., custom fitted for each dog, and certified by the National Institute of Justice.
The program is available to working dogs that are at least 20 months old and actively employed or certified with law enforcement or similar agencies. Dogs whose previous vests have expired can also participate. It is estimated that there are about 30,000 law enforcement K9s throughout the country.
Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. accepts tax-deductible contributions of any size from supporters nationwide. A donation of $1,050 sponsors one vest; each vest is valued at $1,800 and weighs between four and five pounds with a five-year warranty. More information about volunteering or donating can be found on their website at www.vik9s.org or by calling (508) 824-6978.
