Discuss, consider and take appropriate action to accept a donation of seven K9 bullet and stab protective body armor vests for the Sheriff's Office K9 unit from Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. pursuant to Tex. Loc. Gov't Code 81.032. 

Williamson County Sheriff's Office K9s Kato, Rodin, Ike, Harvey, Jayko, Ellie and Ekter have received bullet and stab protective vests thanks to a charitable donation from non-profit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. The vests were sponsored by Survival Armor incentive program and embroidered with the sentiment "Gifted by Vested Interest in K9s and Survival Armor". 

Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., established in 2009, is a 501(c)(3) charity 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. This potentially lifesaving body armor for four-legged K9 officers is U.S. made, custom fitted, and NIJ certified. Since its inception, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. has provided over 5,514 vests to K9s in all 50 states at a value of $6.9 million, made possible by both private and corporate donations.

The program is open to U.S. dogs that are at least 20 months old and actively employed and certified with law enforcement or related agencies. K9s with expired vests are also eligible to participate. There are an estimated 30,000 law enforcement K9s throughout the United States.

Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. accepts tax-deductible contributions in any amount, while a single donation of $985 will sponsor one vest. Each vest has a value of $1800.00, weighs an average of 4-5 lb., and comes with a five-year warranty. For more information, or to learn about volunteer opportunities, please call 508-824-6978. Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. provides information, lists events and accepts donations at www.vik9s.org, or you may mail your contribution to P.O. Box 9, East Taunton, MA 02718.

The Williamson County K9 unit received the first vests in March 2018, warranty is 5 years. The original vests will be replaced with these new body armor vests once the Commissioners Court approves the donation.