Cook County Sheriff's Police K9 Aris has been equipped with a bullet and stab protective vest, thanks to a donation from the non-profit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. The vest was sponsored by the organization and carries an inscription: “In memory of K9 Hobbs, Des Moines, IA EOW 12/12/23.”

Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., founded in 2009, is a 501(c)(3) charity dedicated to providing protective vests and other support to law enforcement dogs across the United States. The body armor provided is U.S.-made, custom-fitted, and NIJ certified. Since its establishment, the organization has supplied over 5,794 vests valued at $6.9 million to K9s nationwide through private and corporate donations.

The program caters to U.S. dogs that are at least 20 months old and actively employed and certified with law enforcement or related agencies. Dogs with expired vests can also participate. It is estimated that there are about 30,000 law enforcement K9s across the country.

Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. accepts tax-deductible contributions of any amount; however, a single donation of $985 sponsors one vest. Each vest is valued at $1,800, weighs approximately 4-5 pounds, and includes a five-year warranty. For more information or volunteer opportunities, interested parties can call 508-824-6978 or visit www.vik9s.org for details on events and donations.