2 rescued horses to join L.A. sheriff's mounted patrol

Two horses rescued from mistreatment are getting a second chance with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.

A thoroughbred mare and a Palomino gelding, living in an equine shelter after being found starving, are now being trained for mounted patrol service.

Sgt. John Hargraves, a 30-year-veteran, was in need of a new horse to replace his aging mount and heard that animal services had recently seized a number of undernourished horses.

During his trips to the shelters he found two horses that appeared suitable for law-enforcement careers.

The mare, a former racehorse, very quickly began responding to cues to walk, trot, back and turn. The Palomino, abandoned and found starving after it got stuck under a fence, also seemed “eager to please,” sheriff’s officials said.

The animals are being nursed back to health and trained to assist in mounted enforcement work.

“You don't need to have an expensive horse … just one that is sound, calm, and willing to learn and trust you," Hargraves said in a statement.

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Comments

[CC Croft]

That's fantastic! I'm really pleased by this story. :) Good job. I love stories that show how rescue animals can be just as eager - sometimes more so - to please and learn and grow. Great job Sgt. John Hargrave! :)

[sober1]

Horses have such big hearts and the ability to forgive. What a great story.

[Jackie]

Great to hear these once-abandoned animals will now be trained to help law enforcement! What a great purpose for them.

[Elaine P]

Yay! I love stories like this! So good to know that rescued animals are considered. I agree with the poster CC Croft....great job for Officer Hargrave!

[California Girl]

These horses are glad to be alive and will enjoy their new lives.