North Haven Police Honor K-9 Koda As She 'Crosses The Rainbow Bridge'

NORTH HAVEN, CT — The North Haven Police Department is honoring the life of their retired K-9 Koda, who passed away Tuesday.

"It is with heavy hearts that we announce retired K-9 Koda made the journey over the rainbow bridge yesterday," the department began the tribute, which was shared on Facebook.

Koda joined the department in Jan. 2012, when she began working side by side with Officer Alan Cantele to detect narcotics in North Haven.

"K-9 Koda served the town of North Haven well, but she served Alan’s family even better," officers wrote.

They continued: "She was the best dog, and she and Alan were inseparable. Many of us can relate to losing a pet, but many of us also leave our pets behind when we go to work. K-9 Koda worked with Alan day in and day out for 8 years, before she retired at the end of 2019. This connection and time spent together creates a bond that most people do not experience. It also creates a pain that most can’t imagine when it's time to say goodbye."

The town flooded the comments of the post with memories of expressions of gratitude for Koda.

"She was sweet naturally, but strong and tough when she needed to be. She protected her town….and our town well," one resident wrote. "RIP, dear Koda. And thank you for keeping us safe."

Another added that they hope Koda will now "rest and frolic peacefully."

"While we mourn losing her, we thank her for her service to the town, sharing her time with us and Alan’s family, and making all our days a little bit brighter," officers said. "May she rest in peace."