The Houston Police Department’s Mounted Patrol unit boasts a diverse herd of thirty-eight horses, comprised of both donated and purchased animals. This esteemed unit showcases a variety of breeds, including but not limited to Percheron, Belgian, Quarter Horse, Hanoverian, Tennessee Walker, Dutch Warmblood, Thoroughbred, and Spotted Saddle Horse. Currently, thirty-two of these horses are actively assigned to patrol duties, with each officer responsible for the dedicated care and well-being of their assigned mount. The remaining horses are either in training or awaiting assignment.
Equine Selection Criteria and Evaluation Process
Before a horse can even begin its initial ninety-day evaluation period, it must meet several stringent requirements. These include being a gelding or mare, possessing a minimum height of 15.2 hands, and falling within the age range of two to fifteen years. Crucially, the horse must exhibit a gentle temperament and successfully pass a veterinary check.
Following acceptance, each horse undergoes a comprehensive ninety-day evaluation and training phase at the Mounted Facility. During this critical period, horses are exposed to various challenging stimuli, such as tarps, fireworks, and smoke, to assess their reactions and build confidence. Their ability to work both independently and in conjunction with other mounted horses is meticulously evaluated. Furthermore, the training program incorporates harassment and crowd control simulations to prepare them for real-world scenarios.
The training then progresses beyond the facility, venturing into large parks and even Houston Intercontinental Airport. Upon successful completion of these initial stages, the horses are introduced to the dynamic environment of the central business district. This urban setting presents unique challenges, including ongoing construction projects, constant vehicular and pedestrian traffic, water obstacles, curbs, and ever-changing terrain, all of which contribute to a robust training experience.
Mount Assignment and Retirement Procedures
Once a horse is officially accepted into the Mounted Patrol unit, it is assigned to a specific officer or supervisor. The department endeavors to match mounts and riders based on the rider’s skill level to ensure a harmonious partnership. In instances where an officer’s assigned horse is temporarily out of service, a suitable replacement is provided from the unit’s extra horses.
Should a horse not meet the standards during its evaluation, it is returned to its donor. For horses nearing retirement, the original owner is given the first opportunity to reclaim their equine companion. If the owner is unavailable or declines, a suitable, loving home is carefully selected from a long list of enthusiastic horse lovers interested in adopting retired police mounts.
Ongoing Training and Specialized Programs
The partnership between a horse and rider continues long after the initial acceptance. The entire mounted unit participates in monthly training sessions focusing on equitation, ground training, formation riding, crowd control, harassment, and desensitization to loud noises. A key component of their ongoing development is a mandatory four-week Natural Horsemanship instructional class, adhering to the principles of Pat Parilli.
A pioneering initiative within law enforcement, the Houston Police Department Mounted Patrol introduced a barefoot program in 2003, which has proven remarkably successful. This program has largely eliminated the need for farriers, significantly reducing hoof-related issues. Currently, four mounted officers are trained in barefoot hoof trimming, with many investing their own funds to acquire this specialized knowledge. Initially, during the transition to barefoot, horses are fitted with hoof boots, such as the EasyCare, Inc., Old Mac G2, to manage sensitivity. As the hooves strengthen over time, the need for boots diminishes.
Community Engagement and Support
The Houston Police Department Mounted Patrol welcomes community involvement. Individuals with information about potential equine candidates for the unit are encouraged to contact Sgt. Jeff Dobrucki at 832-394-0376. Furthermore, those wishing to support the purchase of police mounts can make monetary donations through the Houston Police Foundation website, designating their contribution specifically to the “Mounted Patrol” fund.
