K-9 protection

Galli, a Wright State Police Department canine, has a protective vest designed to protect her from gun and knife attacks thanks to the Ohio Law Enforcement K-9 Association.

The association loaned vests to Galli and her handler, Sgt. Kurt Holden, on April 5.

“My dog is part of my family, so to have that peace of mind for my wife, my kids, not that dad is coming home but also my partner is also coming home at night as well,” said Holden.

Officer Nelda Mattison’s K-9 Jenkka was measured for a vest that is expected to arrive several weeks after the funds have been raised. Each vest cost OLEKA $650 and donations can be made on the association’s webpage.

Mattison said that when Jenkka goes out on a call, there is no telling what might happen.

“I think this vest is going to severely help her chances of coming home because she’s at the very front of the leash,” said Mattison.

The protective vest can protect the dogs from a 9mm bullet and a four-inch blade, according to the association’s Candance Jacks.

“Slowly but surely we’re trying to protect each K-9 in the state of Ohio one at a time,” said Jacks.