NEW YORK - They're the largest members of the NYPD and their feet can take a real pounding.

That's where the department's horseshoers step in. 

Professionally known as farriers, they care for the hooves of the NYPD's 50 horses.

A big part of their job is replacing the horseshoes to ensure the animals are perfectly balanced when trotting on city streets.

"As those feet grow we trim those feet, kept these horses comfortable and we protect their feet with steel shoes," said NYPD Farrier Marcus Martinez Jr.

"We get so used to them, it's the same customer every week, every couple. It get a little easier. I've been doing him for 10 years," said NYPD Farrier Thomas Nolan.

The horseshoes are changed on each horse every four to six weeks.

This is for the safety of the animal and the police officer they are responsible for carrying.