COLLINSVILLE — Illinois State Police K9 Zeus has received a bullet- and stab-protective vest through a charitable donation from Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., a nonprofit organization that provides protective gear and other assistance to law enforcement dogs across the United States.

The vest for K9 Zeus was sponsored by Vested Interest in K9s and embroidered with the sentiment “Born to Love – Trained to Serve – Loyal Always.”

Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., established in 2009, is a 501(c)(3) charity with a mission to provide bullet- and stab-protective vests and other assistance to dogs of law enforcement and related agencies throughout the United States. The organization said the body armor is U.S.-made, custom-fitted and National Institute of Justice (NIJ) certified.

Since its inception, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. has provided more than 5,918 vests valued at $6.9 million to K9s in all 50 states, made possible by 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, according to the organization. K9s with expired vests are also eligible. The organization estimates there are 30,000 law enforcement K9s throughout the United States.

Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. accepts tax-deductible contributions in any amount, and said a single donation of $1,050 will sponsor one vest. Each vest has a value of $1,800, weighs an average of 4 to 5 pounds and comes with a five-year warranty.

For more information or to learn about volunteer opportunities, the organization can be reached at 508-824-6978. It also provides information, lists events and accepts donations at www.vik9s.org. Contributions may be mailed to P.O. Box 9, East Taunton, MA 02718.