Mountain Park Police Department’s K9 Mex has received a bullet and stab protective
vest thanks to a charitable donation from non-profit organization Vested Interest in
K9s, Inc. K9 Mex’s vest was sponsored by The National Police Association and
embroidered with the sentiment “Gifted by NationalPolice.org”.

Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., established in 2009, is a 501(c)(3) charity whose
mission is to provide bullet and stab protective vests and other assistance to dogs of
law enforcement and related agencies throughout the United States. This potentially
lifesaving body armor for four-legged K9 officers is U.S. made, custom fitted, and NIJ
certified. Since its inception, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. has provided over 5,127
vests to K9s 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. K9s with expired
vests are also eligible to participate. There are an estimated 30,000 law
enforcement K9s throughout the United States.

Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. accepts tax-deductible contributions in any amount, while
a single donation of $985 will sponsor one vest. Each vest has a value of $1800.00,
weighs an average of 4-5 lb., and comes with a five-year warranty. For more
information, or to learn about volunteer opportunities, please call 508-824-6978.
Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. provides information, lists events, and accepts donations
at www.vik9s.org, or you may mail your contribution to P.O. Box 9, East Taunton,
MA 02718.