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Tyrrell County Sheriff’s Office K9s Argo and Havi will receive bullet and stab protective vests thanks to a charitable donation from non-profit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc.

Argo’s vest is sponsored by No-Z K9 Scent Work Club of Northwest Indiana and will be embroidered with the sentiment “Honoring Those Who Served and Sacrificed.” Argo, a shepherd/Malinois, is a full patrol dog.

Havi’s vest will be embroidered with the sentiment “Born to Love – Trained to Serve – Loyal Always.” Havi, a springer spaniel, is trained in narcotics detection and tracking.

Delivery of the protective vests 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 4,101 vests to K9s in all 50 states at a value of $6.9 million, made possible by both private and corporate donations,” stated information from the Tyrrell County Sheriff’s Office.

The donation program is open to U.S. dogs at least 20 months old that are actively employed and certified with law enforcement or related agencies as well as K9s with expired vests. There are an estimated 30,000 law enforcement K9s throughout the United States, according to the information from TCSO.

Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. accepts tax-deductible contributions in any amount. A single donation of $960 will sponsor one vest and each vest has a value of $1,744-$2,283, weighs an average of 4-5 lb. and comes with a five-year warranty. For more information or to learn about volunteer opportunities, call 508-824-6978. Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. provides information, lists events and accepts donations at www.vik9s.org. Contributions may also be mailed to P.O. Box 9, East Taunton, MA 02718.

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