A little while back I posted about the tragic loss of a local 2 year old K9 named Ape after he was shot by a crazy gunman. While that time was sad and many of us were full of questions (yes, he was wearing a vest), something very positive has been underway as a result. Ape not only served so bravely during his short life, but in a way, he continued to serve even in his death...through raising awareness. Soon after Ape's passing, my county's sheriff's department shared on the local news that that have 3 police K9's and only one outdated vest. I was in shock! I had no idea! Three days later, simply by putting that information out to the public, and with Ape's recent heroism on people's minds, enough money was donated by locals to the county sheriff's department that all three K9's could now be vested! K9 programs are often not paid for through taxes, so the public generosity is crucial. Not only could we now vest our three K9's, but there was enough money to purchase portable emergency trauma kits! I couldn't be more thrilled!
Since I was so unaware of the lack money, vests and supplies available to help protect and save out K9 dogs serving us so well, I can only assume there are others out there who are also unaware. Please, I urge you to investigate your own local K9 needs. It took our small county 3 days to earn what money we needed, and it was simply done through sharing and interest. Of course larger towns might require a bigger effort, but find out, spread the word....get your service pups protected!
Resources to help you get started:
Vest-A-Dog
Kevlar for K9s
OH what a Fabulous Post... a great way to get the word out of the NEEDS. THANKS
ReplyDeleteThat is a wonderful post and Ape was a very handsome dog. It is so sad what happened, but great how your community banded together to help out the other dogs.
ReplyDeleteWe are very proud to know you
Bert and My Vickie
Bettcha Ape is at the bridge smiling!
ReplyDeleteThe Mad Scots
We had no idea that their equipment wouldn't be covered. It sounds like Ape has left a huge legacy and maybe saved some other dogs. Lee and Phod
ReplyDeleteSomething to investigate for sure. Thank you for bringing this to our attention.
ReplyDeleteHow wonderful that Ape's bravery and heroism didn't fall on deaf ears. Bless that/your community for being so generous.
ReplyDeleteWe will look into it!
ReplyDeleteSam
Thank you for sharing that good news...so sad for Ape though.
ReplyDeleteNora
Yes, once people are aware of something their generosity kicks in.
ReplyDeleteXXXOOO Daisy, Bella & roxy
Great idea. Here all our dog units are funded publicly but good thing to shout it out there for those who are not. Have a terrific Tuesday.
ReplyDeleteBest wishes Molly
Wonderful idea. Dogs should automatically be wearing vests if they are to be put in a dangerous situation.
ReplyDeleteDip Bridge and Elliot x
poor sweet Ape he is gorgeous, reminds me of my favorite famous dog Rin Tin Tin I am so glad they have the vests
ReplyDeleteurban hounds
Oh, that is such a tragic story Murray. We, too, have fund raisers here with a FABulous local pet store that raises green papers for the K-9 units in the Bay Area. It is very important to have the vests, not only for gunshots, butts it also protects them from knife wounds too.
ReplyDeleteGreat job.
Kisses,
Ruby
That's really good news! Good on your county for taking positive action and making a change for police dogs still working and regularly in harms way. Nice to meet you too!
ReplyDeleteThanks Murray for the great post. Well done to your local community for helping. No worries, and love, Stella and Rory
ReplyDeletethank you for coming to visit me!
ReplyDeletelove
tweedles
Yes, this is important! Our fellow canines do need protection as they serve! Thanks for the info!
ReplyDeleteYour Pals,
Murphy & Stanley
PS - Still painting : (