07/21/2021
Three Lakes Fire Department’s K9 Reba Ole has received donation of
body armor
Three Lakes Fire Department’s K9 Reba Ole has received a bullet and stab protective
vest thanks to a charitable donation from non-profit organization Vested Interest in K9s,
Inc. K9 Reba Ole’s vest was sponsored by John Hall of Broad Brook, CT and
embroidered with the sentiment “Gifted by John, Whitney and Jolie Hall”.
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 4,327 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 $960 will sponsor one vest. Each vest has a value of $1,744-$2,283,
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.
