YSU Police K9 Barkley receives protective vest donation

The Youngstown State University Police Department’s K9 Barkley has officially been outfitted with a bullet- and stab-protective vest, thanks to the nonprofit Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. and a donation from Dan Laufman of Canfield.

The custom-fitted vest, embroidered with the words “In memory of Aunt Mimi,” arrived this month and is already in use as Barkley continues to assist officers on campus and in the community.

“K9 Barkley is an important member of our department, and this vest ensures he has the same level of protection as our human officers,” said Police Chief Shawn Varso. “We’re deeply thankful to Mr. Laufman and to Vested Interest in K9s for making this possible.”

Founded in 2009, Vested Interest in K9s has provided thousands of protective vests and other equipment to working dogs nationwide. Each vest is made in the United States, NIJ-certified and comes with a five-year warranty.

To date, the organization has donated more than 6,225 vests to law enforcement K9s across the country, totaling nearly $7 million in value. The program is sustained through private and corporate giving, with donations as low as $1 accepted and $1,050 sponsoring one full vest.

The YSU Police Department first announced the donation in July, with the vest delivery expected within 10 weeks. Now, with Barkley geared up and on duty, the department says the gift has already enhanced both officer and community safety.

For more information about the program, visit Vested Interest in K9s, Inc.