Kentucky Fish and Wildlife K-9 to receive ballistic vest

FRANKFORT, Ky. (Sept. 18, 2023) - Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources’ Law Enforcement K-9 “Gambit” will receive a bullet- and stab-protective vest thanks to a charitable donation from non-profit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc.​​​

​​​Gambit’s vest is sponsored by Barbara Napolitano of Oak Brook, Illinois and will be embroidered with the acknowledgement, “Gifted by G. Napolitano.” Delivery is expected within eight to 10 weeks.

Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., 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.​​​

This potentially lifesaving body armor for four-legged K-9 officers is made in the U.S., custom fitted, and National Institute of Justice (NIJ) certified. Since its inception, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. has provided more than 5,240 vests to K-9s in all 50 states valued at $6.9 million, 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. K-9s with expired vests are also eligible to participate. There are an estimated 30,000 law enforcement K-9s throughout the United States.

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, weighs an average of 4-5 pounds, 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 electronically at www.vik9s.org​, or by check mailed to P.O. Box 9, East Taunton, MA 02718.​​​