Thanks To Donations, UMPD K9 Amira is Getting A Protective Vest

Missoula, MT (KGVO-AM News) - According to the University of Montana Police Department, their K9 Amira will receive a bullet and stab protective vest thanks to a charitable donation from the nonprofit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. 

“Thank you to this great organization for stepping up for our campus to ensure that Amira has the latest and most up-to-date safety equipment,” said UM Police Chief Brad Giffin. “Our police K9s are critical partners in maintaining the safety of our campus, and this donation will ensure Amira and future police dog officers can be as safe as possible while protecting our campus.” 

Amira’s vest was sponsored by Bill Karpuk of Plating Specialties, in Madison Heights, Michigan.  

Get our free mobile app

Vested Interest in K9s: Making a National Impact

“The delivery of the vest is expected within 10 weeks, and it will arrive embroidered,” said Chris Croft, UM Police Department lieutenant of operations. “Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. was established in 2009 as a nonprofit organization whose mission is to provide bullet and stab protective vests and other assistance to law enforcement dogs and related agencies throughout the United States. This potentially lifesaving body armor for K-9 officers is U.S. made, custom fitted and National Institute of Justice certified.” 

Since its inception, the nonprofit has provided over 6,348 vests valued at $6.9 million to K9s in all 50 states, made possible by both private and corporate donations.  

“The program is open to U.S. dogs who are at least 20 months old, actively employed, and certified with law enforcement or related agencies,” said Croft. “K-9s with expired vests are also eligible to participate. There are an estimated 30,000 law enforcement dogs throughout the U.S.”