Vested Interest in K9s Body Armor Program (Vested Interest in K9s)
Provides bullet and stab protective vests, and some other assistance, for law enforcement K9s. The nonprofit supplies the custom-fitted, NIJ-certified vest directly. This is donated equipment, not a cash grant.
Who it is for
U.S. law enforcement and related agencies with a working dog. The dog must be at least 20 months old, actively employed, and certified. Dogs with expired vests are also eligible.
Department types: Any department
An honest note on fit
Very narrow: it covers K9 body armor only, and only for agencies that have a working dog. If you have a K9 unit, it is a reliable way to get a certified vest at no cost. Not relevant to departments without a K9.
Before you start
How you apply: Apply directly to the funder.
Your agency requests a vest directly through the organization's services page.
Match required: No match required.
How to apply
- Confirm your K9 meets the criteria: at least 20 months old, actively employed, and certified with your agency.
- Go to the Vested Interest in K9s services page and submit the request for your K9 unit.
- Provide the fitting and identifying details the organization needs to custom-fit the vest.
- Wait for production and delivery, which the organization notes typically takes around ten weeks.
Deadline: Requests accepted on an ongoing basis, subject to available donations. Confirm current status on the services page. (Rolling, apply any time)
Funding: One protective vest per qualifying K9, with each vest valued around $1,800 and carrying a five-year warranty. Provided as donated equipment.
Verified as of 2026-05-31. Programs are checked periodically against their official source. Funding details and deadlines change. Confirm the current requirements on the official program page before you apply.