Cleveland Metropark Rangers host Cuyahoga OHC

New Ranger Barn in North Royalton, Ohio to hold future horsemanship clinics and equestrian events

​Cuyahoga Chapter Ohio Horseman’s Council (OHC) members were guests at the Cleveland Metroparks Mounted Ranger Barn for their monthly meeting on Monday October 24, 2016. The facility is located on 9650 Boston Rd., North Royalton, OH 44133.

Sergeant Jessica McNally shared what it was like to train for and experience the recent activities in Cleveland throughout the year. From multiple high profile court case decisions, the Cleveland Cavaliers celebration parade, and the RNC, the mounted forces were put to the test and provided the necessary support to keep everyone safe.

McNally talked of the conditioning program the officers went through with their equine partners to be able to withstand sitting in the saddle for over 12 hours during the events. She emphasized the importance of coordinating her unit and the downtown Cleveland Police Mounted Unit (CPMU) and how communication between her and CPMU Sergeant Mark Medwid was a major key to success. The departments are anticipating working the Cleveland Indians World Series and Celebration festivities soon!

​​Sergeant McNally and two of her officers provided a tour of the new barn site. They explained the grounds offer adequate green pasture and will allow “the horses to be horses” during off-duty hours. The massive indoor training arena is slated to eventually host future horsemanship clinics and community activities. ​​OHC Members were encouraged to greet the 9 trusty mounts of the department and given a background on each horse.

Established in 1921, the Ranger Department of Cleveland Metroparks is the oldest consecutively running mounted force. McNally and her staff are dedicated to continue that legacy and have developed a program to raise funds. All 9 horses are available for “adoption” through an annual donation of $2500 in the Adopt-A-Horse program. The donation will go towards providing the Mounted Unit specialized healthcare, equipment, and training. In exchange, the “adopted parent” will receive several points of recognition, please see the flyer below and visit www.clevelandmetroparks.com for more details.

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Wendy Shaffer, MMCP

​Wendy Shaffer is a Certified Practitioner of The Masterson Method Integrated Equine Performance Bodywork. She is an active member in the Summit County and Cuyahoga County Chapters of Ohio Horseman's Council.