HONOLULU (KHON2) — Two Honolulu Police Department K9s were gifted an extra layer of protection for when they hit the streets.
Non-profit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. gifted K9s Hanzo and Oz brand-new body armor.
Hanzo and Oz are now part of the thousands of law enforcement dogs nationwide with protective vests that can deflect bullet and stab wounds.
Each four-legged officer is custom-fitted for their U.S.-made vest that is NIJ-certified. Officials said the vests weigh an average of four to five pounds and come with a five-year warranty.
It even comes with an embroidered sentiment: “This gift of protection provided by Vested Interest in K9s.”
Since its establishment in 2009, the non-profit has provided nearly 6,000 vests to dogs in all 50 states.
K9s must be at least 20 months old, actively employed and certified by law enforcement or related agencies to qualify for the program. HPD added that K9s with expired vests are also eligible to participate.
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If you are interested in donating to help more Hawaii K9s, visit Vested Interest in K9s’s website. Volunteer opportunities are also available by calling (508) 824-6978.