Wadena K-9 receives protective vest

WADENA — The Wadena County Sheriff’s Office K-9 Nitro received a bullet and stab protective vest.

The sheriff’s office received this charitable donation from nonprofit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. K-9 Nitro’s vest was embroidered with the sentiment “Born to Love - Trained to Serve - Loyal Always.”

Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., established in 2009, is a charity with the stated mission to provide bullet and stab protective vests and other assistance to dogs of law enforcement and related agencies throughout the United States, a news release stated. This potentially lifesaving body armor for K-9 officers is U.S. made, custom fitted and National Institution of Justice certified. Since its inception, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. has provided over 4,210 vests to K-9s in all 50 states at a value of $6.9 million, made possible by both private and corporate donations.

The program is open to U.S. dogs that are at least 20 months old and actively employed and certified with law enforcement or related agencies. K-9s with expired vests are also eligible to participate. There are an estimated 30,000 law enforcement K-9s throughout the United States.

Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. accepts tax-deductible contributions in any amount, while a single donation of $960 will sponsor one vest. Each vest has a value of $1,744-$2,283, weighs an average of 4 to 5 pounds and comes with a five-year warranty.

For more information, or to learn about volunteer opportunities, call 508-824-6978. Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. provides information, lists events and accepts donations at vik9s.org or a person may mail a contribution to P.O. Box 9, East Taunton, MA 02718.