After obtaining generous donations through a social media campaign, the North Richland Hills Police Department (NRHPD) used the proceeds to outfit their K9 officer with a new ballistic vest.
Luka Dogcic, who joined the department in July 2022 and officially started his beat in September 2022, is the beneficiary of the new gear, according to Fox 4. The $1,500 vest will help keep Luka protected when patrolling North Richland Hills with his colleagues.
After Luka was correctly measured for the vest, it was finally delivered to NRHPD and given to Luka at a ceremony on May 22.
The Duke and Oliver Foundation and the Grubbs Family of Dealerships initiated the social media campaign after the two groups offered to sponsor Luka’s new vest.
“[NRHPD] is thankful for the generosity and support of the donors and sponsors of the K-9 program. The program’s success directly reflects the outpouring of support received. NRHPD is thankful to continue to offer this service to the community and beyond,” NRHPD said in a statement.
The initiative to supply the vest followed the announced retirement of NRHPD K9 Officer Breta.
“The department began planning and budgeting for the future development of the K-9 program — which can cost nearly $20,000 upfront,” NRHPD said.
According to its website, the Grubbs Family of Dealerships has participated in numerous charitable initiatives throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth area and other parts of the state.
The Duke and Oliver Foundation is a nonprofit that supports rescued animals with emergencies, training, and other needs. The foundation also works with other animal rescuers, ensuring they have the support they need when emergencies arise.
The organization was named after co-founder Christy Howard’s rescued English Mastiff, Duke, and co-founder Shelley Levitz’s Yellow Lab, Oliver.
According to the foundation, with the exception of credit card fees, 100% of all donations “go directly to rescue groups and rescuers.” Contributions to The Duke and Oliver Foundation can be made on their website.
