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Major is the happy recipient of a new bullet and stab protective vest, which was donated from Vested Interest in K9s, a not-for-profit organization. The vest was sponsored by Reimer and Bevis Families of Middletown.
Now completed, Major's new vest has been embroidered with the quote “Born to Love - Trained to Serve - Loyal Always.”
According to police, each vest has a value between $1,744 and $2,283 and will protect Major from most bullet and stab situations. The vests weigh an estimated five pounds and come with a five-year warranty. Police said that more than 30,000 law enforcement canines throughout the country have been outfitted with similar equipment.
“I would like to thank the Reimer and Bevis family for providing my partner with this vital piece of equipment. It is reassuring to know he is now further protected, thank you," Major's handler stated.. Kyek (K9 Major’s handler)
Vested Interest is a charity located in East Taunton, Mass. 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.” It was formed in 2009 and has since handed out more than 2,900 protective vests, costing an estimated $5.7 million.
Police said that the program is open to dogs actively employed in the United States with law enforcement or related agencies who are certified and at least 20 months of age. New K9 graduates, as well as K9s with expired vests, are eligible to participate.
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