Man on horseback backs up NYC bridge for hunger awareness

The NYPD has arrested an 80-year-old self-proclaimed cowboy days after he gained local notoriety for causing a traffic jam while crossing a Staten Island bridge on horseback.

The cowboy who moseyed over the Outerbridge Crossing on horseback said he feels like his steeds have been “stolen” after he was hit with animal cruelty charges.

Mishler was also issued a pair of summonses on Monday for riding his two horses across the bridge from New Jersey to Staten Island, one of which appeared to be laden with bags.

Veterinarians seized Mishler’s horses after the incident and examined them.

Animal advocate Christine Whaley leads a group called “Stop Doc Mishler” whose members say Mishler neglects his horses.

Police say his two horses suffered from dehydration and bleeding saddle sores.

His horses are now being treated for their injuries by the ASPCA on Staten Island, the District Attorney’s office said.

“I’m in the room and I’m resting up and I get a knock on the door and one of the tenants says, ‘They’re taking your horses!'” Mishler told the Advance. His next court appearance was scheduled for Friday.

People along Mishler’s routes provided him with food and sometimes shelter.

Minutes before he was put into an unmarked police van, Mishler told PIX11 News he was looking forward to getting back on his horses and continuing his ride.