The Scottsdale Police mounted unit prepares horses for rowdy events by exposing them to loud music, large crowds, and strangers petting them. The unit has four officers and six horses, with the newest addition being four-year-old Newt, who is trained to ignore distractions and focus on their job. The horses are trained to be comfortable in crowds and are seen as more approachable than police officers in cars.

Finding suitable horses for the mounted unit has been a challenge, but they have recently teamed up with Asbury University in Kentucky to find and train horses specifically for this work. The horses are trained from birth to be comfortable in loud and crowded environments, making them more suitable for the job. The horses undergo training 24/7, including exposure to loud noises and distractions.

The mounted unit is considered helpful in managing large crowds and engaging with the community during events in Scottsdale. The horses are trained to move through gates, fences, and crowds without shying away, ensuring they are prepared for any situation. The location of the horse barn near WestWorld and Scottsdale Airport provides additional training opportunities for the horses.