INDIANAPOLIS — An Indiana State Police K-9 received some extra protection this week.
K-9 Duke, who works with Senior Trooper Walter Butt in the Indianapolis District, received a bullet- and stab-protective vest from Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., a nonprofit that provides vests to police dogs across the country.
The charity was established in 2009 and has given more than 5,700 protective vests to K-9s in all 50 states. The donations, which have totaled a value of more than $6.9 million, are possible by donations from individuals and corporations.
A donation of $985 will sponsor one vest, which has a value of $1,800, the organization said, though they accept tax-deductible donations of any amount.
To be eligible for a donated vest, dogs must be at least 20 months old and be actively employed and certified with law enforcement or related agencies. K-9s who are wearing expired vests — each comes with a five-year warranty — can also participate.
