Lake County Sheriff’s Office K9 Simba to get donation of body armor

Lake County Sheriff’s Office K9 Simba will receive a bullet and stab protective vest thanks to a charitable donation from nonprofit organization Vested Interest in K9s Inc. K9 Simba’s vest was sponsored by Gayle and Ron Althardt of Vernon Hills, and will be embroidered with the sentiment “This gift of protection provided by The Althardts.” Delivery is expected within 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 canine officers is U.S. made, custom fitted, and National Institute of Justice certified. Since its inception, Vested Interest in K9s Inc. has provided over 6,348 vests valued at $6.9 million to K9s in all 50 states, made possible by both private and corporate donations.

The program is open to U.S. dogs at least 20 months old, actively employed, and certified with law enforcement or related agencies. Dogs with expired vests are also eligible to participate. There are an estimated 30,000 law enforcement canines throughout the United States.

Vested Interest in K9s Inc. accepts tax-deductible contributions in any amount; a single donation of $1,050 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, call (508) 824-6978. Vested Interest in K9s Inc. provides information, lists events, and accepts donations at vik9s.org, or you may mail a contribution to P.O. Box 9, East Taunton, MA 02718.