CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – Virginia Department of Corrections K9s Aika, Black Jack, Chase, Chica, and Fika now have protective vests thanks to a charitable donation from non-profit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc.

The potentially lifesaving body armor protects K9s from bullet and stab injuries. The vests were embroidered with “In memory of K9 Rivan, Virginia DOC, EOW 4-2-24.”

The vests are U.S. made, custom fitted, and National Institute of Justice (NIJ) certified. Each vest has a retail value of $1800.00, weighs an average of 4-5 lbs., and comes with a five-year warranty. Since its inception, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. has provided over 6,225 vests valued at $6.9 million to K9s in all 50 states, made possible by both private and corporate donations.

Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. provides information, lists events, and accepts donations at www.vik9s.org. Donations can also be mailed to P.O. Box 9, East Taunton, MA 02718.