DEKALB COUNTY, Ala. — In a heartwarming show of support, K9 Vulp from the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office is poised to receive a bulletproof and stab-resistant vest, courtesy of a charitable donation from the non-profit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. This essential protective gear is vital for the safety of our four-legged law enforcement partners and is expected to arrive within eight to ten weeks.
The vest for K9 Vulp is sponsored by Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. and will feature a touching tribute: "In memory of K9 Hobbs, Des Moines, IA - EOW 12-12-23," embroidered to honor a fallen fellow K9 officer.
Established in 2009, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) charity with a noble mission to equip law enforcement dogs nationwide with protective vests and provide other vital assistance. This life-saving body armor, made in the U.S., is custom-fitted and NIJ certified.
Since its inception, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. has supplied over 5,472 K9s across all 50 states with protective vests, totaling $6.9 million in value. This achievement has been made possible through the generosity of both private and corporate donors.
“Our K9s play a crucial role in law enforcement, from locating suspects to aiding in search and rescue missions and protecting their handlers," DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden said. "We are immensely grateful for the dedication of this company in safeguarding not only our four-legged hero, Vulp, but numerous others as well."
The eligibility criteria for the program are comprehensive, encompassing U.S. dogs that are at least 20 months old, actively employed, and certified with law enforcement or related agencies. Even K9s with expired vests are encouraged to participate. With an estimated 30,000 law enforcement K9s nationwide, this initiative significantly contributes to the safety and well-being of these invaluable community members.
