The organization is a charity whose mission is to provide protective vests and other assistance to dogs of law enforcement and related agencies within the United States. Since the group’s founding in 2009, it has provided more than 4,301 vests to police dogs in all 50 states with an estimated total value of $6.9 million. The group has received corporate and private donations.
Any U.S dog that is at least 20 months old and actively employed and certified with law enforcement or related agencies is eligible to participate in the program. Police dogs with expired vest are also eligible.
“We are grateful to Vested Interest in K9s Inc. for their generous donation which will protect K9 Cory as he and Officer Gallagher work to protect the citizens of our community,” said Sgt. Theodore Trupp, supervisor of the Dayton Police Canine Unit.
Trupp noted: “K9 Cory’s vest serves as a reminder of the service and sacrifice of ODNR Officer Lagore and his partner.”
Lagore died after suffering a medical emergency in February while assisting in search efforts for a teen at Rocky Fork State Park.
For more information, or to learn about volunteer opportunities with the charity, 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.
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