Middletown Police K9 Tex To Receive Protective Vest

MIDDLETOWN, RI — A charitable donation from the non-profit organization Vested Interest in K9s, and sponsored by Robert Romano of Couto Bros. Moving and Storing of Warwick, will help bring some additional security to Middletown police K9 Tex.

Tex is set to receive a protective vest against bullets and stab wounds that will be embroidered with the words: "This gift of protection provided by Couto Movers." Tex is expected to receive his vest within eight to 10 weeks.

Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., established in 2009, is a 501(c)(3) charity whose mission is to provide bullet and stab protective vests and other assistance to dogs of law enforcement and related agencies throughout the United States. This potentially lifesaving body armor for four-legged K9 officers is U.S. made, custom fitted, and NIJ certified.

Since its inception, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. has provided over 3,917 vests to K9s in all 50 states at a value of $6.9 million, made possible by both private and corporate donations.

"Vested interest has been protecting police canines across the country for over a century," Middletown Police Chief William Kewer. "They have been true law enforcement partners by providing top of the line custom fit ballistic vests to our four-legged partners. I thank them for their continued support in protecting our canines, who in turn protect us and the communities we serve."

The program is open to U.S. dogs that are at least 20 months old, actively employed and certified with law enforcement or related agencies. K9s with expired vests are also eligible to participate. There are an estimated 30,000 law enforcement K9s throughout the United States.

Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. accepts tax-deductible contributions in any amount, while a single donation of $960 will sponsor one vest. Each vest has a value of $1,744-$2,283, weighs an average of 4-5 lb., and comes with a five-year warranty. For more information, or to learn about volunteer opportunities, please call 508-824-6978.