The University of Montana Police Department’s dog Amira, will receive protective equipment after a large donation from a charitable organization. Amira, the K9, has become popular among the local community with multiple calls for wider support.
Amira to get bullet and stab protective vest
The Police Department shared an update on the gift, lauding the efforts of charity organizations. Non-profit group Vested Interest in K9 Inc will provide the bulletproof and stab protective vests for Amira.
According to the announcement, the donation was sponsored by Bill Karpuk of Plating Specialties. The vest is expected within 10 weeks and will be mirrored as a template to be replicated across the United States.
Chris Croft, UMPD Deputy Lieutenant, highlighted the importance of the armor within the police department and Vested Interests’ drive to replicate the same in other jurisdictions.
“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.”
Police Chief Brad Giffin lauded the contribution stressing the value of K9’s on campus safety. The latest safety equipment was also described as an up-to-date version, ensuring total protection for future police dogs.
Vested Interest’s program is open to all United States service dogs over 20 months old. At the moment, there are about 30,000 service dogs across the country, with the cost of a single vest around $1,800.
Apart from service dogs, charities have also launched efforts to improve the welfare of animals around the world. This comes as cases of animal abuse increase in many jurisdictions. This week, a rescue group saved a badly injured dog in California, sparking an ongoing investigation.