Training

Each year members and their equine partners must successfully complete a Sensory Certification course. This training involves an obstacle course, which exposes the horse and rider to many situations and sensory stimulations that they may experience while working. Examples include:

• Balloons
• Carrying flags
• Encountering baby strollers
• Going over bridges and tarps
• Pulling various objects
• Streamers

Training Requirements

Trainees are exposed to patrol car lights and sirens, road flares, and smoke bombs. Within these obstacles the horse/rider team are required to demonstrate the ability to: 

• Back
• Lope
• Side Pass
• Trot
• Turn on the Forehand
• Turn on the Haunches
• Walk

In addition to the required yearly Sensory Certification, members are required to participate in self-defense tactics training, and remain current in 1st Aid/CPR/AED training.

Additional Training

The Polk County Mounted Posse (PCSMP) may also participate in training for:

• 800 Radio Operations
• 911 Address Systems
• Boat and Water Training
• Crime Scene Investigations/Security
• Lost Person Behavior
• Mock Search and Rescue Scenarios
• Mounted Patrol Clinics