When KCDA member Kristine Larsen discovered that her town of Lenexa had three K9 officers, but only two service dogs had protective vests, she decided to work with KCDA member and Protect Our K9 Founder, Leigh Keller, to spearhead fundraising for a new vest Although Kristine wasn't exactly sure how she would raise the money,she knew that she would find a way.

One day while visiting her veterinarian,Dr John Rowe of Aid Animal Hospital, she was introduced to Dr Rowe's daughters Nadia and Bella. In the course of the conversation, Dr Rowe mentioned how much his daughter Nadia loved animals and that she loves to help. He further noted that he and his wife like to involve the girls in endeavors that help animals. Since Dr Rowe is, like Kristine, a Lenexa resident, Kristine told Dr Rowe about the new Lenexa K9 officer that she wanted to 'vest'. Upon discussing the idea of fundraising for a new vest through Protect Our K9s with his daughter, Nadia started shaking with excitement.

Through various turns of events, Dr Rowe and his family donated the funds in order to procure a protective vest for Speedy, Lenexa's newest K9 Officer. From there, Leigh measured Speedy for his vest and procured the custom-made vest.

Much to their excitement, Nadia and Bella, had the honor of presenting K9 Speedy his brand new, made-to-order, custom bullet proof vest in a full City Council Meeting. Not only did the girls provide for a dog in need, they also got to witness City Government at work and be part of a formal ceremony which included the entire City Council, Chief of Police and senior ranking officers.

After the ceremony, Chief of Police Hanson took us all to the Police Training Room where they got to spend time with K9 Officers Speedy and Diesel along with their handlers. Speedy's handler was very grateful that his K9 partner will be safe on duty just as he is and presented the girls with Lenexa PD badges (sticker!) as a token of his thanks.  A very special and memorable evening for two little girls.

Not only did the girls fun while learning the value of helping others, but they learned a little bit about how city government works and that it just takes a few people to make a difference in the life of a deserving dog.

Speedy in Action!

 
To help provide protective vests for K9 Officers in your community, please visit Leigh's website at www.protectourk9s.org.