How Rangers and Mounts are Screened

The application process for Ranger candidates begins when you submit your written application to the Vermont Mounted Response Unit. Applications may be submitted either via US Post or via email. You will be contacted within ten days after we receive your application to confirm its status and set up an interview. The interview will include questions about your riding experience, why you would like to ride with the Vermont Horse Patrol, etc. When possible, we also ask to see your riding skills at this time.

The application process for equine candidates is very similar. A written application must be submitted first, after which the horse's human will be contacted within ten days, and an initial evaluation will be scheduled at the horse's home stable. We will assess the horse's size, temperament, reliability and intelligence. Our preferred mounts for the Vermont Horse Patrol are medium-sized (15-17 hands) geldings, but age, gender and breed are secondary to an individual's temperament and intelligence. Almost all of the horses in the patrol are owned by and reside with their rider.

If you are applying to join the Mounted Unit along with your horse, we will ask to see the two of you riding together as part of the assessment.

Prior experience or training in either police or rescue work is not necessary for either horse or rider, as full training is provided by the Vermont Mounted Response Unit.