‘Dusty’ the police horse featured in brand new book

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WHEC) — A member of the Rochester Police Department’s Mounted Patrol Unit is featured in a brand new book.

"Dusty" was even there for the reception Tuesday.

The book titled "Dusty on Patrol: A Horse’s Tale" chronicles his role within the department and community.

It also talks about his stablemates and how these gentle giants are trained.

"The mounted unit within the police department has been around since the 70s it’s a great ice breaker, everybody’s excited to see the horses," said Michael Murphy with RPD’s Mounted Patrol. "It’s not often that people are apt especially nowadays to walk up and converse with an officer sitting in a car."

Author Karin Fires added, "an animal humanizes a person, whether it’s a horse or your dog, they help to bridge the gap."

Dusty is 23-years-old and about 1,500 pounds. He’s been with the department since 2012.