NPSO Deputies A. Middleton and K. Edwards responded to an unusual traffic hazard on June 19 after receiving reports of a horse running loose on Interstate-49 north of Cypress, according to the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office.

Upon arrival, deputies located the horse safely wandering near the interstate and quickly worked to prevent a potentially dangerous situation for both the animal and motorists. During the course of the rescue, deputies were able to determine where the horse belonged.

With a little patience, some cowboy skills, and perhaps a few persuasive words, Deputy A. Middleton climbed aboard and rode the horse from Interstate-49 to its home on Old Highway 494 near Cypress, where it was safely secured.

Deputies remind livestock owners to regularly inspect fences and gates to prevent their livestock from entering roadways.

While deputies are trained to handle a wide variety of calls, “mounted patrol on Interstate-49” was not on today’s schedule. Thankfully, Deputy Middleton was able to get this four-legged traveler safely home before it could attempt to merge into traffic or apply for a job with the Mounted Patrol.