A pony policeman will give emotional support to the sick
The newest addition to the Ocala, Florida Police Department is only six feet tall, has four legs, and is beyond adorable.
Magic, the miniature female horse, is officially an “honorary police officer” in the department, according to a Facebook post from the Ocala Police Department.
Magic is the first pony to join the ranks of the police department. While she has no law enforcement experience, she makes up for it with specialized training in providing emotional support.
The pony is part of the non-profit horse therapy organization Gentle Carousel, the police department said. Trained miniature horses visit thousands of hospitalized patients, people in hospices, veterans, and emergency room workers who have experienced trauma each year.
Magic will participate in some of the police department’s programs, such as a youth literacy program, as well as one that includes a police-run ice cream truck, CNN reported.
“Magic will help spread goodwill and build relationships between the police department and the community we serve,” Chief Mike Balken said in the release. “With her friendly personality and charming good looks, Magic is sure to endear herself to anyone who meets her.”
