Holyoke Police Department’s K-9 Riker will be a lot safer while in the line of duty thanks to a young girl name Alison Henry. The 10-year-girl asked for donations instead of gifts for her birthday so that Riker could have a bullet proof vest.
Alison saw a story about Riker and wanted to make sure the brave K-9 would be safe while protecting her community.
“I just feel that a dog should be safe because I really like animals,” said Alison.
Thursday night Alison presented the Holyoke Police Department with the bullet proof vest she raised the funds for. She obtained the vest through Vested Interest in K-9s, a non-profit that has provided 437 bullet and stab protective vest for law enforcement dogs since. In return Alison was given several awards from the police department for her efforts.
“It’s phenomenal what she’s done for us,” said Holyoke Police Chief, James M Neiswanger. “We truly appreciate it. I can’t say enough good things about Alison.”