Lake County Police Dog To Get Body Armor Donation

LAKE COUNTY — A Lake County police dog will receive a bullet and stab protective vest thanks to a charitable donation from non-profit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc.

K9 Zeus’ vest is sponsored by Barbara Napolitano of Oak Brook and is expected to be delivered within eight to ten weeks.

Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., established in 2009, is a 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, according to news release from the sheriff's office.

This potentially lifesaving body armor for 9 officers is U.S. made, custom fitted, and NIJ certified. Since its inception, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. has provided over 5,043 vests to K9s in all 50 states at a value of $6.9 million, which is 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. There are an estimated 30,000 law enforcement K9s throughout the United States.

"We are so grateful for the support from Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. and our Lake County community," Lake County Sheriff John D. Idleburg said. "It is so important to keep our canine deputies as safe as possible. We continue to enthusiastically grow our canine unit, because we have seen what a tremendous resource they are to Lake County."

Vested Interest in K9s, 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 4-5 lb., 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.