Hohenwald Police Department's K9 to get donation of body armor

The Hohenwald Police Department K-9, Cir, and his handler, Officer Robbie Hooks were chosen to receive a bullet and stab protective vest, donated by the non-profit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc.

"We're a small department so anything that can be donated helps us a lot," said Officer Robbie Hooks, Cir's handler. "He may only need it one time, but that one time means the difference between him being able to keep performing his job."

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, said the press release form the organization.

The vests weigh an average of four to five pounds and do have a five-year warranty. They typically cost an estimated $1,744 to $2,283 per vest.

"The HPD does a great job of supporting their K9 officers and provide funding to support what they need," said Officer Hooks, "But we're always really grateful for any donations because the money that would have been used on Cir's vest can now be put towards anything that needs it."

Their press release read, 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 4,538 vests to K9s in all 50 states at a value of $6.9 million, made possible by both private and corporate donations.

"Born to Love - Trained to Serve - Loyal Always" will be embroidered on Cir's vest. The pair expect the vest to be delivered between eight to teen weeks.

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 http://www.vik9s.org, or you may mail your contribution to P.O. Box 9, East Taunton, MA 02718. Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. accepts tax-deductible contributions in any amount and reports that a donation of $960 will sponsor one K9's vest.