PROVIDENCE — K9 Vader, a Czech German Shepherd serving with the Providence Police Department, is set to receive a bullet and stab protective vest through a donation from the nonprofit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc.
The vest, sponsored by North Kingstown resident Christopher Campanale, will bear the inscription “Honoring Those Who Served and Sacrificed.” Delivery of the armor is expected within the next eight to ten weeks.
Officer David Impagliazzo, who has been K9 Vader’s partner since 2021, works with the dog on Patrol and Narcotics tasks.
Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., established in 2009, has a mission to provide vital protective vests and assistance to law enforcement dogs across the United States.
The organization has equipped over 5,379 K9 officers in all 50 states with vests valued at $6.9 million, thanks to private and corporate donors.
The vests are made in the U.S., custom-fitted, and meet the standards set by the National Institute of Justice (NIJ).
To qualify for the program, dogs must be at least 20 months old, actively employed, and certified with law enforcement or related agencies.
K9s with expired vests are also eligible for the program, which aims to protect the estimated 30,000 law enforcement K9s working across the country.
Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. accepts tax-deductible donations of any amount.
A single donation of $985 sponsors one vest, each valued at $1,800, with an average weight of 4-5 pounds and a five-year warranty included.
For more details, to donate, or to explore volunteer opportunities, individuals can call 508-824-6978.
