Manitoba has always had a long standing tradition of excellence when it comes to police service dogs and their handlers. In 1996 Winnipeg Police Constable Jim Slater and his service dog Olaf were part of the Winnipeg emergency response team that was often sent into dangerous and difficult situations.
Cst. Slater realized that his dog Olaf was severely under-protected from armed and dangerous criminals and figured if officers had protective gear, then so should their dogs. Within a year he had sewn together the first custom-fitted bullet and stab proof vest for Olaf, and the Manitoba Company K9 Storm was created, a business that produces protective vests for dogs.
Today these vests are sold to emergency rescue, military, and law enforcement canines in 15 countries and are viewed as a world leader in their field. Incredibly, it is reported and accepted that former Cst. Slater’s canine vests were worn by the Navy SEAL dog involved in the raid on Osama bin Laden. From a sewing machine in his basement to international contracts, thank you former Cst. Slater for the legacy of service and protection you have created.
