Vermont Business Magazine The White River Junction US Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) Police Department’s K9 Ripp will receive a bullet and stab protective vest thanks to a charitable donation from non-profit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. K9 Ripp’s vest will be embroidered with the sentiment “Born to Love-Trained to Serve-Loyal Always.” 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 K9 officers is U.S. made, custom fitted, and NIJ certified. Since its inception, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. has provided over 4,301 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.
K9 Ripp reported for duty at the White River Junction VA Healthcare System with his handler, Sgt. Matthew Paquette in January immediately following extensive training in narcotics detection and tracking. He is able to assist other VA facilities across the nation and the local law enforcement due to the specific skill set he can bring to the community.
“We are grateful for this generous donation.” said Paquette, “It shows how the community supports Ripp and cares about his wellbeing.”
For more information please contact Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. website at www.vik9s.org
Source: White River Junction, VT- The White River Junction US Department of Veteran Affairs 6.21.2021