Detroit Welcomes New Mounted Police Horse

Andre the Percheron has had a pretty full and interesting life in his 10 years. He’s been a show horse, a trail horse, and has even been used for logging, according to The Detroit News. But his newest career move will undoubtedly be the most interesting role he’s had to date.

Andre is being leased by the Detroit Mounted Police (DMP) from owner Sharon Wright.

While many police department have cut their mounted units in recent years, Detroit is still working on filling the equine ranks in theirs. Even with Andre on the roster, DMP say they’re still looking for one more four-legged officer. According to a post on the DMP’s Facebook page:

“The candidate will proudly patrol the streets of Detroit and…will make appearances at schools, special events, and be part of the Detroit Police Parade Detail (Thanksgiving Day.)

“The mounted unit will be very selective of this special mount. Candidate should be 17 to 17.2 hands high, gelding preferred, suitable disposition for mounted patrol. Draft/draft cross, black or dark bay…”

If you’ve got a tall, dark and handsome prospect for them, give the DMP a call. But your horse had better look good with the all-business haircut that every DMP horse receives. Every horse in the department, including long-maned Andre, gets a roached mane (but at least they get to keep their forelocks!)

Leslie Potter is Managing Editor of horseillustrated.com. Follow her on Twitter: @LeslieInLex.