OGDENSBURG — The first ever police dog at the Ogdensburg Police Department died this past weekend.

“It is with a heavy heart to report the untimely passing of retired K9 Kodiak,” according to the Ogdensburg Patrolmen’s Benevolent Association Facebook page. “Kodiak suffered an unforeseen medical emergency on Sunday November 17th 2019.”

Kodiak was rushed to the Canton Animal Clinic and on medical advice of the veterinary staff, Kodiak’s care was transferred to the Alta Vista Animal Hospital in Ottawa Ontario. “Kodiak passed away while at the Animal Hospital with his partner Detective Sergeant Mark Kearns by his side,” the Facebook post said.

Kodiak was the first police dog to serve the Ogdensburg Police Department and served in the capacities of narcotics detection, evidence location and tracking.

Kodiak began his service in June of 2014 and retired in January of 2018 due to his partner’s assignment to the investigations unit at the police department.

“Kodiak was loved by many to include his fellow officers of the Ogdensburg Police Department, the law enforcement community, his friends and trainers of the American Working Dog Association, the citizens of Ogdensburg, and the Kearns family. A memorial service will be held in Kodiak’s honor upon the return of his remains in the near future,” according to Facebook.