NYPD horse attacked by pit bull
The police stallion Pompey II suffered numerous puncture wounds and abrasions Wednesday, April 22, 2015, when he was attacked by a loose pit bull while headed to the 75th Precinct in Brooklyn, according to police. He and his police officer, Luis Ramos, are at left. At right are Officer Laurene Bove, who witnessed the attack and drove the dog back toward Essex Street with her horse, Limerick. Credit: NYPD
Dog bites man may not be news. But dog bites horse, particularly an NYPD steed? Well, that is another story.
Pompey II, a police stallion on routine patrol en route to the 75th Precinct in Brooklyn, suffered numerous puncture wounds and abrasions Wednesday when he was attacked by a loose pit bull, according to police.
But under the steady hand of his rider, Officer Luis Ramos, Pompey II stayed under control and kept in front of the dog while another police horse -- Limerick -- ridden by Officer Laurene Bove, drove the attacking animal back toward Essex Street, according to the NYPD.
The owner of the pit bull, who wasn't identified, was able to secure the dog. The canine was taken to a local New York Animal Care & Control, or ACC, facility where it will be evaluated, according to police. An NYPD spokesman didn't know if the dog was up-to-date on its vaccinations. A spokesman for ACC didn't immediately return an email for comment.
According to police, the injured Pompey II was taken back to the Troop E stable located on Brighton Third Street to be treated by a veterinarian.
"Pompey II is expected to fully recover after a few days' rest, he will also receive a few extra apples and carrots," the NYPD said.
Anthony M. DeStefano has been a reporter for Newsday since 1986 and covers law enforcement, criminal justice and legal affairs from its New York City offices.
