NEW SAFETY VEST … Pioneer K9 Officer Vader is now safer while serving the community with the donation of a bullet and stab proof vest from Vested Interest in K9s, Inc.
By: Anna Wozniak
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
anna@thevillagereporter.com
One special officer with the Pioneer Police Department now finds himself safer while on duty.
Vader, Officer Randy Mills K9 partner, has received a “potentially lifesaving body armor for four-legged K9 officers” that is U.S. made, custom fitted, and NIJ certified from Vested Interest in K9s, Inc..
The Pioneer Police Department also shared that K9 Vader’s vest was sponsored by Fire District No #1 South Hadley, MA, and embroidered with the sentiment: “In memory of Meg St. Martin, South Hadley Dist. 1.”
The donors, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. was 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.
Since its inception, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. has provided over 5,379 vests to K9s in all 50 states at a value of $6.9 million, made possible by both private and corporate donations. Each vest has a value of $1,800, weighs around five pounds, and comes with a five-year warranty.
Those interested in donating or volunteering to help vest America’s estimated 30,000 law enforcement K9s should call 508-824-6978, visit www.vik9s.org, or mail contributions to: P.O. Box 9, East Taunton, MA 02718.
The Pioneer Police Department made sure to give their thanks to Vested Interest in K9s, Inc and the South Hadley Fire District #1 for their “generous donation” that will serve to protect one very deserving K9.