8-Year-Old Tries to Help Four-Legged Officers

By Jennifer Pierce, NEWS 9

EL RENO, Oklahoma -- An 8-year-old is giving back by raising money to buy protective gear for the El Reno Police Department's four-legged friends.

Eight-year-old Vicky Galindo may be tiny in stature, but she has big plans to help the dogs that are twice her size.

"I'm trying to raise money to buy them bullet proof vests," Vicky said.

She wants the two fury members of the El Reno Police Department to stay safe while working. The dog's handlers appreciate her efforts.

"They are police officers just like we are, ‘cause they don't have the fear factor like humans do, and it's comforting to us to know they will be more protected," El Reno Police Officer Chris Leal said.

The 8-year-old got the idea to raise money for her police department after losing a close friend.

"My dog Oreo got killed in an accident," the 8-year-old said.

Oreo has since been replaced, but around the time of the accident, Vicky read a book that spelled out just what she needed to do.

"It was about this 11-year-old girl who put Chinese containers in stores and raised enough money to buy five bullet proof vests," Vicky said.

But it's going to take lots of change to buy the vests. So far, she has raised just over $500. The vests can cost between $500 and $1,200 each. Vicky and her mom have put up donation jars all over El Reno so you can drop in your change to help the police dogs.

Vicky's dedication has adults and children looking up to this little girl.

"I am very proud of her. She's become famous at Riverside School," Vicky's mom Juanita Galvan said.

The El Reno Police Department considers her a blessing.

"It's actually pretty heartwarming we haven't had anyone come out to try and do something like that for us before," Officer Leal said.

You can make a donation at the following locations in El Reno, Oklahoma:
El Reno Police Department
Canadian Valley Animal Hospital
Serapios Mexican Restaurant
Riverside School
Beachlers Store
J&Kay Restaurant
Valero
B4B Theatres Reno 8
Veterinary Consultation Service
Fair Park Animal Hospital