The Houston Police Department Mourns the Loss of a Member of the Mounted Patrol Unit
It is with heavy hearts that the Houston Police Department announces the passing of “Hollister Holly,” a 15-year-old horse who served faithfully in the Mounted Patrol Unit for 11 years. Holly succumbed to a chronic condition after a long battle, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and service.
Described as a beautiful Percheron cross mare, Holly was sponsored by Houston City Councilmember Amy Peck and District A. Peck expressed her sadness over the loss, noting how the community cherished seeing Holly at events in the district.
Despite her passing, Holly’s memory lives on in the hearts of all who knew her. The Houston Police Department shared their sentiments, stating, “She will be sorely missed.”
Remembering HPD Mounted Patrol
The Houston Police Department’s Mounted Patrol Unit consists of 38 horses, with 32 actively patrolling alongside officers. These horses, ranging in breeds from thoroughbreds to quarter horses and more, play a vital role in crowd control and community engagement.
New horses undergo rigorous training phases, including exposure to various environments and scenarios to ensure their readiness for duty. Once assigned to an officer, the horse continues monthly training to maintain peak performance.
Mounted patrol officers and their horses are a valuable asset during major events like parades, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, and the World Series. One mounted officer and their horse are said to be as effective as 10-12 police officers on the ground during crowd control situations.
Established in 1984, the Mounted Patrol Unit has been a staple of the Houston Police Department, embodying a tradition of excellence in law enforcement and community outreach.
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For more information on the HPD Mounted Patrol Unit and their invaluable service to the community, visit their website.