Clayton PD receives gift of K9 vest

CLAYTON — Police Department K9 Officer Ravka has received a bullet- and stab-protective vest thanks to a donation from Vested Interest in K9s, a nonprofit.

“Having this protective vest for K9 Ravka gives us an added layer of security and peace of mind,” said Officer Jeffrey Demarest, Ravka’s handler. “Every day, our K9 officers face unpredictable dangers, and knowing that Ravka is equipped with this lifesaving gear allows us to perform our duties with greater confidence.”

Established in 2009, Vested Interest in K9s is a charity whose mission is to provide protective vests and other assistance to dogs of law enforcement agencies throughout the United States. The body armor is made in the United States, custom fitted and certified by the National Institute of Justice.

Since its inception, Vested Interest in K9s has provided more than 5,625 vests to canines in all 50 states. Money for the vests, valued at $6.9 million, came from individual and corporate donations.

Ravka’s vest has an inscription in memory of K9 Hobbs, a former Clayton police canine.

“We are deeply grateful to Vested Interest in K9s for their generous donation and for honoring the memory of K9 Hobbs through this gift,” Demarest said.

Law enforcement agencies in the United States deploy some 30,000 canines. Vested Interest in K9s accepts tax-deductible contributions in any amount. A single donation of $985 will sponsor one vest. To donate, go to vik9s.org , or mail a check to P.O. Box 9, East Taunton, Mass. 02718.

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