Olive Branch Police K9 receives protective body armor donation

Aug. 6, 2025 – The Olive Branch Police Department’s K9 officer, Riki, is now better protected in the line of duty thanks to a generous donation of body armor from the nonprofit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc.

K9 Riki received a bullet- and stab-resistant vest designed specifically for working police dogs. The vest is custom-fitted, made in the U.S., and certified by the National Institute of Justice. The donation aims to enhance the safety of law enforcement K9s during active duty.

Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2009, has provided over 6,100 protective vests to K9s across all 50 states, totaling more than $6.9 million in donations. Each vest, valued at $1,800, weighs approximately 4 to 5 pounds and comes with a five-year warranty.

The organization supports working K9s that are at least 20 months old and certified with law enforcement agencies. Dogs with expired vests are also eligible.

With an estimated 30,000 law enforcement K9s serving nationwide, the organization continues to rely on donations to fulfill its mission. A contribution of $1,050 sponsors one vest. To learn more or to donate, visit www.vik9s.org or contact them at (508) 824-6978.