The first four-legged member of the St. Thomas Police Service is retiring.
Trax, a pure-bred shepherd, joined the force in 2013. He along with his handler Constable Sean James formed the city's first K9 unit. But just three and a half years into his service, a medical issue is forcing Trax to take an early retirement.
"Last month, PC James became concerned when Trax began to exhibit an abnormal gait in his hind quarter. The dog was sent for examination by an expert veterinarian and a career ending diagnosis of Gracillis Myopathy was delivered to the department," read a written statement issued by St. Thomas police on Monday.
Gracillis Myopathy is a condition that develops in the gracilis muscle as a result of a tear in the muscle fibres or due to a repetitive strain injury. The condition restricts movement of the hind legs.
"Although we are sad to see Trax go we are reassured knowing he will live out his days as a beloved house pet to PC James and his family enjoying much love and many treats," the police statement said.
While Trax's retirement has left the force without a dog for its K9 unit, police officials say they are already in the process of purchasing a new police dog for the program.
