Kentucky Fish and Wildlife K-9 gifted ballistic vest

Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources' Law Enforcement K-9 "Gambit" will receive a bullet- and stab-protective vest, thanks to a charitable donation from a non-profit organization known as Vested Interest in K9s, Inc.

Barbara Napolitano of Oak Brook, Ill., sponsored Gambit's vest. It will be embroidered with the acknowledgement, "Gifted by G. Napolitano." 

Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., was established in 2009, as a 501(c)(3) charity. Its 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 K-9 officers is created in the U.S., custom fitted, and National Institute of Justice-certified. Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. has provided more than 5,240 vests to K-9s in all 50 states, valued at $6.9 million. Such vests are made possible by both private and corporate donations. 

The program is open to U.S. dogs, at least 20 months old, actively employed, and certified with law enforcement or related agencies. K-9s with expired vests also are 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. A single donation of $985 will sponsor one vest. Each vest has a value of $1,800, weighs an average of 4-5 pounds, and comes with a five-year warranty. For more information, or to learn about volunteer opportunities, phone 508-824-6978. Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. provides information, lists events, and accepts donations electronically at www.vik9s.org, or by check mailed to P.O. Box 9, East Taunton, MA 02718.

(photo caption) 
Conservation Officer Cody Berry and K9 Gambit work Thunder Over Louisville in April 2023. Ofc. Berry and Gambit serve in southcentral Kentucky.