Nonprofit Donates Protective Vests To Tuscaloosa Police K9s

TUSCALOOSA, AL — Five Tuscaloosa Police Department K9s will soon receive new protective gear thanks to a national nonprofit that supports law enforcement dogs.

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TPD said Monday that K9s Baki, Leo, Meri, Nailz and Thomas will each be outfitted with bullet- and stab-resistant vests provided by Vested Interest in K9s, Inc..

The custom-fit vests are expected to arrive within 10 weeks and will be embroidered with the message, “This gift of protection provided by Vested Interest in K9s, Inc.”

Founded in 2009, Vested Interest in K9s has distributed more than 6,225 vests, valued at $6.9 million, to agencies in all 50 states and funded entirely by private and corporate donations.

TPD says the vests are U.S.-made and certified by the National Institute of Justice, weigh about four to five pounds each, carry a five-year warranty and cost roughly $1,800 apiece.

The nonprofit said a single $1,050 donation can sponsor a vest.

Vested Interest in K9s accepts tax-deductible donations of any size and lists volunteer opportunities and additional information at on its website.

TPD said contributions can also be mailed to P.O. Box 9, East Taunton, MA 02718.

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