A Pocatello police dog died unexpectedly on Nov. 29 while on duty, according to a city press release.

The canine officer, named Bart, had served the police department for five and a half years and worked throughout the entirety of his career with the Pocatello Police Department. His handler was Cpl. Akilah Lacey. 

Bart had extensive training in narcotics and apprehension and was responsible for several large-scale drug seizures throughout his career, police said. Police said Bart was often utilized in K9 demonstrations and was rated as the third best patrol dog in Idaho during 2018. 

"Bart was a beloved and valuable member of our K9 unit," police said in a press release. "He played an important role in making our city a better, safer place to live."