Horses are still widely used in police forces across the world for many different reasons.

By Equestrian Life

Police horses are still a vital part of law enforcement around the world as they can be used in scenarios and environments that are difficult for other methods of policing. 

However, a horse needs to have certain traits and temperaments to make a good police horse.

Some of the physical characteristics that come to mind when thinking of a police horse are they often very tall to help their riders see above large crowds or to intimidate with their size, they’re sturdily-built to withstand any physical conflict that may arise, and they are in excellent physical condition.

But what are some of the other less-obvious features that horses need to join the ranks?

The Lancashire Mounted Branch of the UK Police is currently on the hunt for some fresh equine recruits and have identified these qualities as ideal for prospective police mounts.

• Minimum 16.2hh
• Aged 5-10 years old
• A kind temperament and good to handle on the ground
• Sensible to ride, established in walk, trot, and canter, and capable of jumping a small fence
• Loads and travels well in a trailer
• Ideally a weight carrying type, although some sportier types may be considered
• Capable of passing a five-stage vetting
  

Once a horse meets all of the above criteria, it will undergo a four-week trial in which the police assess its suitability for the role. 

After passing this trial, the horse is then placed into further training that will prepare it for its new job while it is generally matched with a compatible rider. 

Check out this fantastic article from the ABC about how policing on horseback continues to be one of the most effective crime-fighting tools in Australia, here. 

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