Linn County Sheriff’s Office K9s Nora and Charlie will receive bullet and stab protective vests
thanks to a charitable donation from non-profit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc.
K9s Nora and Charlie’s vests are sponsored by Deborah Collins of Colorado Springs, CO and both
will be embroidered with the sentiment “In honor of Ralph J. Collins”. Delivery is expected
within eight to ten 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 K9 officers is U.S. made, custom fitted, and NIJ certified. Since its inception, Vested
Interest in K9s, Inc. has provided over 5,127 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 $985 will sponsor one vest. Each vest has a value of $1800.00, weighs an average
of 4-5 lb., 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 at www.vik9s.org, or you may mail your
contribution to P.O. Box 9, East Taunton, MA 02718.
