b'Hooves on Duty:Deputy GageJoins the Mounted PosseArticle and photos courtesy of Karen KlevenoPF 12-Gauge outdoor concerts, farmers markets, rodeos, school better known theseprograms, parties, career days, Trunk-or-Treats, and even days as Deputy Gageparking assistance. Most interactions are with children,and I joined thewho love receiving sheriff star stickers and trading cards Riverside Countyfeaturing photos and stats about each horse. True to his Sheriffs VolunteerFjord nature, Deputy Gage thrives on the attention and Mounted Posse inhas quickly become a crowd favorite. At events where the May of this year.Posse sets up a booth, a banner proudly features a photo The Sheriffs Posseof the two of us.has six stations throughout Riverside County, California. We belong toProfessionalism is essential. Before every event, horses, the Hemet Station, the busiest and largest, with roughlyriders, and tack are inspected for cleanliness and 40 members. Alongside riders, the Posse also includescompliance with department dress code. Deputy Gage mini horses with their handlers, as well as members whoeven sports his own sheriffs badge on his breast collar, serve exclusively as ground support. Deputy Gage isand his headstall conchos are shaped like sheriff stars.especially fond of the minis!Because the Mounted Posse represents the Sheriffs All Posse horses and riders must qualify initially andDepartment, both horses and riders must maintain the then re-qualify annually. The testing process covers 20highest standards. Ongoing training is a requirement, components, from handling gunshots, police lights, andwith monthly practices as well as extended three- and sirens, to walking calmly through flare patterns, acrossseven-day training sessions. For Deputy Gage and me, its reflective mats, and over bridges and poles. Horses mustboth a privilege and an honor to serve our community also back through a narrow L, walk-trot-canter, carrytogetherand a testament to the versatility and good a flag, open and close a gate, side pass in both directions,nature of the Fjord horse.pony another horse, and be ponied themselves. They must stand quietly for mounting, tolerate slickers being put on and removed, and remain steady around strollers and umbrellas. This year, Deputy Gage passed his annual qualification with a perfect score of 100%well above the 80% minimum required.The duties of the Mounted Posse are extensive. Members assist with search and rescue and provide support at public events including parades, 10 Fjord Herald Issue #156Fall 2025'