HOLYOKE, Mass. (WWLP) -- A 10-year-old Massachusetts girl says she donated her birthday money to help out a K9 officer from her local police department.

Allison Henry of Palmer raised enough money for the Holyoke Police Department to buy a bulletproof vest for a K9 officer named Ryker.

Her mother found out about Ryker through a group called Vested Interest in K9s.

As a result, Allison decided that instead of birthday presents this year, she would ask for donations to help get Ryker a vest.

"I just feel that a dog should be safe, because I really like animals,” Allison said.

Holyoke Police Chief James Neiswanger thanked Allison for the donation during a special ceremony Thursday and said he was impressed the girl was making such a positive impact at such a young age.

The department also introduced its two newest K9 members, June and Titan, on Thursday night’s ceremony.