Rock Falls’ Fahgo awarded ‘Healthcare for K9 Heroes’ grant

ROCK FALLS – Fahgo is sporting a new, safer vest thanks to a grant program through a Massachusetts company.

The Rock Falls Police Department K-9 received the vest through Vested Interest in K9s Inc., a 501(c)(3) nationwide charity located in East Taunton, Massachusetts.

According to a news release issued by the police department, the company’s mission is “to provide bullet and stab-protective vests and other assistance to dogs of law enforcement and related agencies throughout the United States.”

“The nonprofit is pleased to continue their ‘Healthcare for K9 Heroes’ medical insurance program for 2023, which covers annual policy premiums,” according to the release. “Since 2016, the charity has donated over $307,404 toward medical reimbursement programs for self-funded K-9 units.”

Trupanion, offers medical insurance for cats and dogs and injury and illness coverage for working and service dogs, both on and off duty.

“For nearly two decades, Trupanion has given pet owners and working dog owners peace of mind so they can focus on their dog’s recovery, not financial stress. Trupanion is honored to support these brave K-9 heroes and is committed to providing the highest value in medical insurance to help them receive the best veterinary care,” according to the release.

In addition to the health care reimbursement program, Vested Interest in K9s has provided more than 5,210 law enforcement dogs with U.S.-made, custom-fitted, National Institute of Justice-certified bullet and stab-protective vests in 50 states at a value of more than $6.9 million.

Tax-deductible donations can be made to Vested Interest in K9s Inc., P.O. Box 9, East Taunton, MA 02718 or at www.vik9s.org.