It's about time this dedicated officer got the proper protection to stay safe on the job.

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Dale and Trish Veith of Killeen, Texas were the sponsors of K9 Yari's vest. The K9 officer for the Killeen Police Department will receive a bullet and stab protective vest thanks to a charitable donation from non-profit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc.

Vested Interest in K9s Charity

Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. is a non-profit organization with the mission of providing bullet and stab-protective vests along with other assistance to dogs with law enforcement and related agencies throughout the United States.

For the last 13 years, the organization has donated over 4,600 K9 ballistic vests, along with more than $240,000 in K9 insurance premiums through their Healthcare for K9 Heroes program, and $106,200 in K9 medical first aid kits. In addition, they have given three Chevy Tahoes that are customized for a K9 Unit. The program is open to U.S. dogs that are actively employed, certified with law enforcement or related agencies, and at least 20 months old. K-9s with expired vests are also eligible to participate. Vested Interest in K9's programs are made possible with money raised through contributions, grants, and fundraising events.

How to Help Vested Interest in K9s

There are an estimated 30,000 law enforcement K9s across the country, and they are always looking for support. For more information or to learn about volunteer opportunities, you can call 508-824-6978. You can also get more information and donate online at www.vik9s.org

Yari should be getting his vest in the next eight to ten weeks, according to KWTX.

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