South Portland police are mourning the loss of a member of its K9 team, police dog Trigger. 

According to police, Trigger was recently diagnosed with cancer and had become increasingly uncomfortable.  

“(T)he difficult decision was made in consultation with a local veterinarian to end his suffering,” police announced in a statement on Tuesday. 

Trigger worked with handler Lt. Kevin Theriault, and police said the dog had become a member of Theriault’s family and a guardian at home. 

“Trigger was not only Kevin’s partner but also a co-worker to all who serve the city of South Portland,” the statement read. “Trigger worked tirelessly for 10 years to help keep our city and the state of Maine safe.” 

The statement continued: "SPPD has lost a devoted member of its team, one that served this community and expected nothing in return. Trigger’s apprehensions, tracking of lost individuals, and seizures of drugs and weapons are too lengthy to mention in this release.” 

Chief Daniel J. Ahern said that his department is forever indebted to Trigger, "and will never forget his loyalty, courage and intelligence.”