Police Dogs To Get Extra Protection With New Vests

Image: Ciro, shown here with Cpl. Kevin Freeman, is one of three K9s with the Annapolis Police Department who will wear the new vests (APD).

ANNAPOLIS, MD - Three dogs who serve as K9 officers with the Annapolis Police Department will receive bullet and stab protective vests thanks to a charitable donation from a non-profit organization, the department announced Wednesday.

The vests are being provided for Ciro, a German shepherd, and Peko and Atos, who are both mixed breed, German shepherd and Malinois.

The vests from Vested Interest in K9s Inc. are sponsored by David Marberger of Bay Ridge Wines and Spirits of Annapolis. They will be delivered within eight to 10 weeks, the department said.

The mission of Vested Interest in K9s is to provide bullet and stab protective vests and other assistance to dogs of law enforcement and related agencies throughout the United States. It has provided more than 1,700 protective vests, in 49 states, through private and corporate donations, at a cost of about $1.6 million. All vests are custom made by Armor Express in Central Lake, Mich.

For more information or to learn about volunteer opportunities, please call 508-824-6978. Vested Interest in K9s provides information, lists events and accepts tax-deductible donations at www.vik9s.org or mailed to P.O. Box 9, East Taunton, Mass., 02718.