K9 Ace outfitted with body armor

Turlock Police Department's K9 Ace has received a bullet and stab protective vest thanks to a charitable donation from a non-profit organization called Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. K9 Ace's vest was sponsored by the National Police Association and embroidered with the sentiment "Gifted by NationalPolice.Org." Vested Interest in K9's, 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 K9's, Inc. has provided over 5,077 vests to K9's 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. K9's with expired vests are also eligible to participate. There are an estimated 30,000 law enforcement K9's throughout the United States. Vested Interest in K9's, Inc. accepts tax-deductible contributions in any amount, while a single donation of $985 will sponsor one vest. Each vest has a value of $1,800.00, weighs an average of four to five pounds, and comes with a five-year warranty. For more information, or to learn about volunteer opportunities, please call (508) 824-6978. Vested Interest in K9's, 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.