The North Branford Police Department’s K9 Hanz has received a ballistic vest thanks to a nonprofit organization, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., and Connecticut Color Breed Association fundraiser for Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. in Glastonbury.

Sgt. Mario Bernardo, a member of the North Branford Police Department since 2006, added K9 partner Hanz in 2013. Hanz is a two year-old German shepherd and graduated from the Connecticut State Police K-9 Academy in 2013 after 16 weeks of training.

The vest will be embroidered with the sentiment, “This gift of protection provided by Vested Interest in K9s, Inc.”

For more information, call 508-824-6978. Tax deductible donations are accepted via mail to: Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. P.O. Box 9 East Taunton, MA 02718 or at www.vik9s.org.