NCSO K9 Atom gets fitted with new protective vest

Niagara County Sheriff’s Office K9 Atom has received a bullet- and stab-proof protective vest thanks to a charitable donation from nonprofit organization Vested Interest in K9s Inc. K9 Atom’s vest was embroidered with the sentiment “In memory of K9 Relic, Avon-by-the-Sea, NJ, EOW 2/3/22.”

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“I appreciate the generous donation of a vest from Vested Interest in K9s. K9 Atom will be well protected while he is serving the residents of Niagara County,” Sheriff Michael J. Filicetti said.

NCSO shared, “Vested Interest in K9s, established in 2009, is a 501(c)(3) charity whose mission is to provide bullet- and stab-proof vests and other assistance to dogs of law enforcement and related agencies throughout the United States. This potentially lifesaving body armor for four-legged K9 officers is U.S. made, custom fitted, NIJ-certified. Since its inception, Vested Interest in K9s has provided more than 4,714 vests to K9s in all 50 states at a value of $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. K9s with expired vests are also eligible to participate. There are an estimated 30,000 law enforcement K9s throughout the United States.”

Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. accepts tax-deductible contributions in any amount, while a single donation of $960 will sponsor one vest. Each vest has a value of $1,744-$2,283, weighs an average of 4 to 5 pounds, and comes with a five-year warranty. For more information, or to learn about volunteer opportunities, call 508-824-6978.

Vested Interest in K9s provides information, lists events, and accepts donations at www.vik9s.org, or one can mail a contribution to P.O. Box 9, East Taunton, MA 02718.