Spearheaded by Westford resident Ginny Burgoyne and the Massachusetts Vest-a-Dog program, the Westford Police Department is now the proud owner of a new SUV specifically made for police dogs.

“We couldn’t have purchased the vehicle at this time, without the community’s assistance,” said Westford Police chief Tom McEnaney.

Burgoyne worked with Vest-a-Dog to create opportunites for fundraising, including conducting a calendar raffle, accepting donations, coordinating events and acitivites to raise awareness and funds, and wrapping up the effort with a “End of Summer BBQ” at the Tiki Bar at Nashoba Ski Area.  Fundraising exceeded $23,000, provided funding for the K-9 cruiser and equipment for the K-9 Program.

“When I saw the old Crown Vic that (K-9) Officer Peladeau was using as a K-9 cruiser, I was appalled; it was not appropriately equipped as a K-9 cruiser, because it was considered a ‘temporary’ vehicle," said Burgoyne. I learned about funding difficulties with the Town and decided to pitch in. I love dogs and wanted to help insure the safety of our town’s K-9 Team."

The K-9 program also saw recent donations from other local area volunteers such as Blanchard Middle School student Christopher Ramoutar, who raised $125, Westford Girl Scout Troop #60492, who raised over $700, and several dozen local businesses and residents who also contributed to the SUV purchase.

More information is available at www.mavestadog.org