The two Kent Police K9s will receive bullet and stab protective vests after a fundraising effort brought in more than $6,300.
In fact, police dogs in other police agencies also will receive vests because so much money came in just a few weeks after Kent Police asked for donations for the vests, according to an email from Kent Police Sgt. Jarod Kasner.
Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., a 501c (3) all volunteer charity in East Taunton, Mass., whose goal is to provide bullet and stab protective vests for law enforcement dogs throughout the United States, led fundraising efforts through an online Crowdrise campaign.
“We are very touched by the community support and impressed with the efforts made by Vested Interest in K9’s Inc.,” Kasner said.
Kasner said a Kent couple donated the $1,900 needed to outfit K9s Kato and Ghost of the Kent Police Department. Each vest costs $950. The dogs will wear the vests during training and work. Kent Police just ordered the vests, which have not yet arrived.
The remaining funds will cover vests for two dogs with the Okanogan County Sheriff’s Office as well as two additional dogs in Washington for another police agency yet to be selected.
The fundraising effort started after Kato was stabbed by a suspect on Sept. 24 while chasing the man down. Kato was not wearing a protective vest at the time of the incident. Kato underwent surgery, is feeling much better, and expected to return to duty after he completely heals.
Through private and corporate sponsorships, Vested Interest in K9’s has provided more than 437 law enforcement dogs with protective vests since its inception in August 2009.
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