Horses sought for mounted patrol unit
The Pennsylvania State Police are asking the public to consider donating their horses to join its mounted patrol unit.
State police said Tuesday that they rely on donations from the community to fill their complement of 28 horses. The horses live in stables at the state police training academy in Hershey.
The animals are deployed statewide for searches, crowd control, security and patrol of remote areas. They also participate in parades, demonstrations and other community events.
Donated horses must be geldings between the ages of 5 and 15 and stand between 16 hands (5 feet 4 inches at the shoulder) and 18 hands tall. Draft and draft-crosses are the preferred breed. Thoroughbreds and other “hot bloods” are less desirable.
State police said the horses must have quiet, sound dispositions and be free of serious stable vices. Horses will be accepted on a 120-day trial basis to determine their suitability. A veterinary examination will also be performed.
State police said horse owners from across the commonwealth have donated 12 horses since 2015. They noted
that donations typically come from those who find the cost of ownership is becoming a financial strain or feel the animal would benefit from the mental and physical activity that comes with having a job.
Upon retirement, state police horses are first offered back to their original owners. The department finds them suitable homes if the original owners are unwilling or unable to accept the animals.
To arrange a donation or for more information, contact Sgt. Carrie A. Neidigh at 717-533-3463 or cneidigh@ pa.gov.