Wilmington Police Mourn the Death of Therapy Dog Zena

WILMINGTON — 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.

Zena was killed in a motor vehicle crash in Tewksbury Tuesday morning after another driver allegedly crossed the double yellow line and struck Wilmington Police Department Clinician Samantha Cavanaugh’s Toyota Camry. Cavanaugh, Zena’s handler, was also injured and taken by ambulance to a local hospital.

First responders attended to Zena and took her by ambulance to Bulger Animal Hospital in Lawrence, where she passed away. Zena was transported by ambulance due to Nero’s Law, which provides for traumatically injured police dogs to be transported in ambulances. 

Zena, a Bernedoodle, was three years old. 

Zena joined Wilmington Police in January of 2022 at just 8 weeks old, and was assigned to Cavanaugh as a therapy/comfort dog. Zena brought smiles to all who met her whether it be a visit to a community group, a school, the senior center, or walking around the annual Fun On The Fourth festival.

“We are heartbroken today because Zena was a beloved member of our Wilmington Police family, and a beloved member of our community,” said Chief Pupa. “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.”

In addition to being frequent visitors to schools and community events, Cavanaugh and Zena made up the Wilmington Police Health & Recovery Unit, which builds relationships with individuals and helps residents with behavioral health, mental health, substance use and development health issues. Their work has impacted Wilmington residents and families on a daily a basis. 

Zena was known throughout the community and even had her own Instagram page.

Wilmington Police would like to thank the Tewksbury Police department for their assistance, and the Tewksbury Fire Department for transporting Zena to a hospital under Nero’s Law. Wilmington Police would also like to thank the staff of Bulger Animal Hospital for their efforts and for treating Zena with dignity. 

The crash is being investigated by Tewksbury Police Department. Any inquiries regarding the crash should be sent to Tewksbury Police.