Waterloo Police Department K9 Tobi will receive a bullet and stab protective vest thanks to a charitable donation from non-profit organization Vested Interest in K9s.

Tobi’s vest is sponsored by A.D. Belcher of Marion, Ind., and will be embroidered with the sentiment “This gift of protection provided by A.D. Belcher.”  Delivery is expected within 8-10 weeks.

Vested Interest in K9s, established in 2009, is a 501(c)(3) charity whose mission is to provide protective vests and other assistance to dogs of law enforcement and related agencies throughout the United States. Since its inception, Vested Interest in K9s has provided over 4,740 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 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 to $2,283, weighs an average of four to five pounds, and comes with a five-year warranty.  

For more information, or to learn about volunteer opportunities, call 508-824-6978.