Waynesville -- Our local four-legged officers work just as hard as their human partners to keep Waynesville safe, and now, one of our own is getting an extra layer of protection. We are thrilled to share that K9 Loki of the Waynesville Police Department has been selected to receive a custom-fitted, bullet and stab-protective vest.
This life-saving donation comes courtesy of the non-profit Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., an organization dedicated to equipping K9 units across the country. Loki’s new armor will bear a truly fitting sentiment: “Born to Love—Trained to Serve—Loyal Always.”
Read more about this wonderful community update and how this organization is supporting our K9 heroes below.
Waynesville Police Department’s K9 Loki to Get Donation of Body Armor:
Waynesville Police Department, NC - K9 Loki will receive a bullet and stab protective vest thanks to a charitable donation from non-profit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. K9 Loki’s vest was sponsored by Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. and will be embroidered with the sentiment “Born to Love-Trained to Serve-Loyal Always”. Delivery is expected within ten weeks.
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 National Institute of Justice (NIJ) certified. Since its inception, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. has provided over 6,397 vests valued at $6.9 million to K9s in all 50 states, 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. 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 $1,050 will sponsor one vest. Each vest has a value of $1800.00, weighs an average of 4-5 lbs., 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.
Waynesville Police Department, NC
Pictured is the Waynesville Police Department's very own K9 Loki.