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 South Carolina Department
of Natural Resources

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SCDNR News

S.C. Department of Natural Resources K9 Rio to get donation of body armor

December 15, 2021

dog with Game Warden harness

SCDNR K-9 Rio will soon be protected on the job thanks to a vest provided by the nonprofit group Vested In K-9s Inc.

COLUMBIA, S.C — The S.C. Department of Natural Resources' (SCDNR) K9 Rio will receive a bullet and stab protective vest thanks to a charitable donation from non-profit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. K9 Rio's vest will be embroidered with the sentiment “In memory of K9 Gabo, Jonesboro, AR - EOW 1/16/20”. Delivery is expected within eight to ten weeks.

SCDNR's K-9 team is used in the investigation of hunting and fishing violations statewide, as well as frequently being called upon to assist other Law Enforcement agencies with a wide range of calls including missing persons or evidence searches.

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 4,481 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.

Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. accepts tax-deductible contributions in any amount, while a single donation of $960 will sponsor one vest. 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, please call 508-824-6978. Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. provides information, lists events, and accepts donations at www.vik9s.org, or you may mail your contribution to P.O. Box 9, East Taunton, MA 02718.

Media Contacts:
David Lucas
Public Information Coordinatior
(843) 610-0096
LucasD@dnr.sc.gov