Howard County (Maryland) Police Department K-9s Blade, Bronx, Duke, Falco, Max, Murph, Pegy, and Titan will receive bullet and stab protective vests thanks to a charitable donation from non-profit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc.

All the vests were sponsored by Don and Misty Fike of Galesburg, Illinois, and will be embroidered with the sentiment “Born to Love-Trained to Serve-Loyal Always.” Delivery is expected mid-September, Howard County PD said in a press release.

Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., established in 2009, is a 501(c)(3) charity that provides bullet and stab protective vests and other assistance to dogs of law enforcement and related agencies throughout the United States. The body armor is U.S. made, custom fitted, and National Institute of Justice (NIJ) certified.  Since its inception, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. has provided more than 6,120 vests valued at $6.9 million to K-9s 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 and actively employed and certified with law enforcement or related agencies. K-9s 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. For more information, or to learn about volunteer opportunities, 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.