Importance of every K9 having a life-saving stab-proof and bulletproof protective vest
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) -- Recently, many K9 Officers in El Paso County have been receiving lifesaving stab-proof and bulletproof vests.
With the death this year of El Paso County Sheriff K9 Officer Jinx, the need for these protective vests is becoming more known and widespread.
The vests are custom fitted, thick, and weigh anywhere from 4 to 15lbs. They are very similar to what a human officer would wear. The dogs go through training to learn how to move around easily in them.
These dogs, like their officer handlers, put their lives in danger too. They do tactical operations and go after suspects. They also work with narcotics and bomb identification agencies. As well as TSA.
Local law enforcement does not supply the vests. They rely on the nonprofit organization 'Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. which donates these vests based on need.
The stab-proof and bulletproof vests cover the dog's vital organs and areas most likely to be struck by an attacker.
"Most of the trauma that happens to the dogs is usually within their chest or stomach area, and that's where these vests protect everything there," Colorado Springs Police Department Police Officer Shawn Mahon said. "I think to have something like that that either saves their lives or at least gives us the opportunity to get them medical treatment before something happens to them."
Shawn's K9 Britta is his second working K9. His first, Petra, passed away in a training exercise. He has been working with Britta for seven years now. Britta just received her vest on September 20. Her vest is custom embroidered with the sentiment “In memory of K9 Petra - EOW 9/8/14”.
"The dogs are basically very expensive tools," Mahon said. "But in reality, they're partners to us. Britta, my dog right now, is my partner but she's more like my daughter. We spend 10 hours out of the day together and work 4 days out of the week."
The Colorado Springs Police Department has 15 dogs in its K9 Department. Most of the K9s in the department now have a protective vest. They are all expected to have one in the next one to two years.
If you'd like to donate, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. accepts tax-deductible contributions in any amount. For more information, or to learn about volunteer opportunities, call 508-824-6978 or visit www.vik9s.org. Contributions can also be mailed to P.O. Box 9, East Taunton, MA 02718.
