Illinois State Police K9 ‘Remco’ will soon be outfitted with a new bullet and stab protective vest, thanks to a donation made by ‘Vested Interest in K9s, Inc.’ The vest is expected to arrive within the next ten weeks and will carry a special embroidery reading. The donation ensures that Remco, who serves as a valued member of the state’s law enforcement team, will have additional protection while performing his duties in the field.

Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. is a non-profit organization that has been supporting law enforcement dogs across the nation since 2009. Their mission is to provide bullet and stab protective vests, along with other forms of assistance, to help safeguard K9 officers serving their communities. Each vest is made in the United States and is custom-fitted and certified by the National Institute of Justice. The protective gear provided by Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. is designed to be both durable and lightweight. Each vest weighs around four to five pounds and is valued at approximately $1,800. While any tax-deductible donation is accepted, a contribution of $1,050 sponsors one full vest for a K9 officer in need.

Since its founding, the group has donated more than 6,000 vests valued at $6.9 million to working dogs in all 50 states. These efforts are made possible through the generosity of private individuals and corporate donors who want to help protect the animals that protect others. The organization estimates there are about 30,000 law enforcement K9s serving throughout the country.

Those wanting to learn more or make a donation can visit www.vik9s.org, call 508-824-6978, or mail donations to Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., to P.O. Box 9, East Taunton, MA 02718.