Zena, a three-year-old Bernedoodle, (Bernese mountain and poodle blend) was killed earlier this week in a motor vehicle accident in Tewksbury after another vehicle is alleged to have crossed the double yellow line and struck Wilmington Police Department Clinician Samantha Cavanaugh’s car. Cavanaugh was also injured and taken to a local hospital for emergency treatment.
The crash occurred in the morning about 8:00 a.m. During a preliminary investigation, a 26-year-old woman was responsible for the collision. She was expected to be charged with negligent operation of a motor vehicle. She was also injured and transported to the hospital.
Neither woman had life threatening injuries.
First responders cared for Zena and took her by ambulance to Bulger Animal Hospital in Lawrence, where she died.
The Wilmington, Massachusetts Police Department posted the heartbreaking news:
It is with deep sorrow and regret that Wilmington Police announce the death of the department’s therapy dog, Zena, whose calming and gentle presence eased the minds and lightened the hearts of countless residents of all ages.
We are heartbroken today because Zena was a beloved member of our Wilmington Police family, and a beloved member of our community. For three years, Zena put residents and families at ease even during the toughest of times, and her work will not be forgotten. She served her community well.
Zena joined Wilmington Police in January of 2022 at just eight weeks old and was assigned to Cavanaugh as a therapy/comfort dog. Zena’s Instagram account reminds us how much she was adored.
This sweet pooch brought smiles to everyone who met her. Cavanaugh and Zena made up the Wilmington Police Health & Recovery Unit, which built relationships with individuals and helped residents with behavioral health, mental health, substance use and developmental health issues. Their work impacted Wilmington residents and families on a daily a basis.
Rest in peace Zena. You will be missed.
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