Mounted search and rescue

[Una Smith <una@lanl.gov>]

Other things the horse can be trained to do:

Allow you to wave signal flags, flashlights, or similar and direct
heavy traffic.  Search at night.  Travel faster than groundpounders
in snow up to 12 inches deep.  Get you across rivers groundpounders
cannot cross safely without ropes.  Stand groundtied while you deal
with the subject or whatever (eg, in a meadow).  Drag a sled litter.
Stand his ground against aggressive dogs or cattle (don't try this
with buffalo!).  Stand calmly while a helicopter lands or takes off.
Some subjects are afraid of horses but others are drawn to them.  A
horse that is sensible and friendly enough not to be upset by either
type of subject can help the subject relax and cooperate with you.

        Una Smith
        Santa Fe County Sheriff's Posse, New Mexico