Author: Cindy K Roberts

Publisher/Author, Cindy K. Roberts has a lifetime experience with training horses and mules; riding the family pony at age 2 was the beginning. Her grandfather, Lieutenant Wilton Willmann a sharpshooter and muleskinner of the U.S. Army Cavalry (stationed in Fort Riley, Camp Perry, Fort Leavenworth circa 1924) gifted her with the insight on mules; and the desire to study and work with them. Shooting firearms and working with horses and mules was desired and expected in the family. Cindy is host of Mule Talk! The podcast about mules. She enjoys the western way of life, educating new mule owners in working with their own mules, hosting mule events, and documenting her own adventures in keeping the cowgirl spirit alive.

Mule Girl Shenanigans

A collection of comical barn stories, mule antics, and tales of adventure with a humorous twist that will tickle your funny bone! Grouch tested; highly recommended for those with constipation. Add this to your collection for outhouse reading. (wink) Available in paperback and download: Mule Girl Shenanigans: Entertaining Tales That Will Delight Any Horse or Mule Girl: Roberts, Cindy K: 9798443202372: Amazon.com: Books Published by Every Cowgirl’s Dream.

Confidence Training for the Western Saddle Mule

Proven Techniques for the Trail Riding Mule! Retraining Apprehensive & Insecure Mules, Becoming the Confident Mule Rider Includes Training Through Feel, Assessing Your Mule’s Skill Level Factors Contributing To The Unconfident Mule Physiological Needs — Nutrition, Correct Saddle Fit For the Mule & Rider, Correct Saddle Pad Fit For the Mule, Proper Fit of the Bridle, Bits & Their Uses, Hackamores & Their Uses, Nosebands, Draw Reins, Martingales & Their Uses, Leg Wraps & Their Uses, Understanding The Mule’s Thought Process, Obstacle Training, Desensitizing, Trailer Loading, How The Reward System Works For The Mule, Becoming the Confident Mule Rider, Riding on Multiple Use Trails, Meeting Real Challenges on the Trail & MORE!

Available in paperback: Confidence Training for the Western Saddle Mule: Roberts, Cindy K: 9781729371749: Amazon.com: Books

The Naked Truth About Mules & Donkeys

Mule myths and untruths regarding the mule and donkey are dispelled, offering a thorough explanation of the origin and the true logical answer. Logical training methods are explained to develop the mule into a safe and willing partner on the trail. Quirks explained the mule’s perspective from his world, in full color. Available in paperback and Kindle download. The Naked Truth About Mules & Donkeys: Myths, Legends & Falsehoods Revealed: Roberts, Cindy K: 9781542984935: Amazon.com: Books

Thinking about owning a wonderful mule or donkey? Do you want an inside look at those loving and very capable long ears February 25, 2017 Have you ever contemplated the facts versus fiction on mules and donkeys? Author, Cindy K Roberts writes not only about her involvement but also shares other skilled mule owners and trainers’ hands-on experiences. You will find many owner testimonies and gorgeous photos of beautiful mules and donkeys that debunk those “falsehoods”! A highly recommended read for a comprehensive guide to the inside of those wonderful mules and donkeys.

  • Title: “The Naked Truth About Mules & Donkeys”
  • Author: Cindy K Roberts
  • Publisher: Every Cowgirl’s Dream
  • Color: Full Color
  • Availability: Available on Amazon
  • Key Points:
    • Myths and Facts: The text presents various myths and facts about mules and donkeys.
      • Myths:
        • A mule or horse cannot buck if you have a piece of broom handle clamped down under their tail.
        • Mules will hold a grudge.
        • A mule won’t hurt himself.
        • Mules will kill your children.
        • You can’t overload a mule.
        • Mules can’t compete at Mounted Shooting.
        • Mules won’t neck rein.
        • The only way to talk to a mule is to curse at ’em.
        • A mule picks you (when buying) and if he doesn’t, you are really in for it.
        • A mule will wait ten years to get even or kick you.
        • Mules are not fast.
        • Mules don’t have a heart like a horse.
        • Mules do not need shoes.
        • Mules are sterile.
        • Mules aren’t forgiving.
      • Factual Information:
        • The book provides an inside look at mules and donkeys, debunking common misconceptions.
        • It includes owner testimonies and gorgeous photos of these animals.
        • Recommended for those interested in understanding the truth about mules and donkeys.

Results from Web:

  • Author’s Perspective: The author, Cindy K Roberts, shares her own experiences with mules and donkeys.
  • Other Owners and Trainers: The book also features insights from other skilled mule owners and trainers.
  • Debunking Myths: The text aims to dispel falsehoods and myths surrounding mules and donkeys.
  • Comprehensive Guide: A highly recommended read for anyone interested in learning more about these wonderful animals.

Summary: “The Naked Truth About Mules & Donkeys” provides factual information, owner testimonies, and beautiful photos to debunk common myths and offer a comprehensive guide to understanding these remarkable creatures. 🐴🐾

How to Measure Greatness

Greatness: The quality of being great, distinguished, or eminent. Dang! Double Dang! I had to leave the mule corral on this one, Do you realize if mules focused on developing greatness, they would be unstoppable? That would keep me in the bleachers for a long, long while. This is what I found in how we, as humans, measure greatness. And interestingly, I also found some of the same qualities in mules:

  1. Authentic – A hybrid is a hybrid, so that clarifies a mule is a mule.
  2. Brave – typically, mules are going to save their own ass, however, there is one mule that comes to mind that rode into danger. General Crook and his mule “Apache” captured the great warrior Chief Geronimo.
  3. Decisive – Once a mule has made up his mind, there is no changing it.
  4. Goal-oriented – This is a good one. Eat in the pasture all night under the moonlight, chase a coyote out of the pasture, play with the cows if they are around, head to the water trough in the morning, roll in the dust and bask in the sun during the daylight.
  5. Humble – If anything, you will learn to be humble when hanging out with mules.
  6. Inspiring – This is where your true test of character will come in. You have to be able to inspire mules.
  7. Justice – A mule will teach you this from day one. Remember, the punishment must match the crime. All mules are different as are their sensitivity levels.
  8. Listener – Mules are great listeners.
  9. Motivating – Mules will teach you motivation. You will spend a lot of time thinking of ways to “convince” or convey a new thought or task to your mule. It’s their job to question your resume or sales pitch. Your mule wants to know why he should hire you? If you can motivate mules, you are doing well at achieving greatness.
  10. Encourage – Mules require this encouragement thing. Keep moving, increasing and growing, and pioneering new frontiers.
  11. Trustworthy – No doubt about it, a mule requires all humans that come into their domain to be trustworthy. They know deceit when they see it, coming from a mile away.
  12. It takes a confident and good mind set to work through challenges that will come along in your equine training program. And, working with mules will no doubt, make you into a better person. The kind of person that has a deeper understanding in how mules and donkeys think. You will have respect for those you work with and will develop a better temperament… and that my friends, is the path to greatness.

Know Where To Hang Your Hat – Status Is Everything

An interesting concept is status. Mules being as independent as they are, know where to hang their hat. They mingle, hang out, and move around in the paddock and pasture, to where it benefits them. They figure out herd dynamics quickly and make it all happen for them. For the mule, it’s all about him or her. Mules get this. They get the status thing and use it to their advantage. Dang! How cool is that?

So, where you hang your hat, is crucial for mental and physical health. So yes, status is everything.

Understandably, prolonged periods of feeling like you’re low status can thus lead to illness and depression. If your serotonin remains diminished for a long enough time, you’ll also become angry and may even feel the urge to violently lash out at others. This is not cool. You really need to take a time out and hang with the mules.

So, this status thing…unfortunately, there is a fair share of unscrupulous “business people” that muddy up a sector of the mule industry. This is nothing new, so watch yourself.

Just as you have an ingrained desire to seek status, others do too, and part of that drive is to connect with high-status people. As your confidence grows, your network of friends and peers will reflect as being positive growth. Remember, status isn’t just about looks or wealth, so this isn’t a purely superficial attraction. Both men and women want to befriend and partner with a guy who brings all kinds of valuable things to the table, whether that’s intelligence, wit, loyalty, or skill; everyone wants high status and hardworking people on their team.

And the mules; don’t want a deadhead on their team or a troublemaker. They go by their rules of conduct in the pasture and around the barn. Mules are good about the status thing. I admire mules that can detect dishonorable intentions faster than the stagecoach that left the depot.

Running an equine business is a challenge. Just remember, developing status leads you down the trail of success; to making new friends, finding romantic partners, and building a rich social network.

And that is why I like working with mules. They will teach you to look deep into your heart and soul; they will humble you and allow you to have a deeper understanding. That’s the deal breaker right there. I think I will hang my hat, right here.

Mule Talk the Podcast

It’s a kick in the pants! Bringing stimulating content about mules and donkeys to you from Mule Talk! Featured guest, Meredith Hodges and Host, Cindy K. Roberts are making a difference, thanks to you our listeners on Mule Talk Podcast (On IHeart Radio) or wherever you listen to your podcasts.

2024 Mule New Year’s Resolution

Here we are, let’s get at it! If you have questions, you know where to find me.

  1. Start an emergency mule fund. Keep tucking away extra cash for an emergency
    that may come up unexpectedly. Be smart about this, stuff happens, and as you know, you can’t bubblewrap your mules or donkeys.
  2. Clean out and organize your tack room. Use a broom to whisk away the cobwebs, wipe down your leather with conditioner, and cover your saddles/gear with a cover. Dust is destructive to leather.
  3. Focus on riding with a purpose. If you don’t have a purpose, what’s the point? That comes from a mule’s perspective. Not having a purpose develops boredom in the mule, horse, or donkey. Yes, I know you ride for therapy, to get away, to get mule time in, but remember, you’re the leader. Develop your partnership between yourself and your equine. In other words, don’t be a knucklehead. (wink)
  4. Create a plan for barn safety, such as eliminating fire hazards and loose boards. If you are a boarder, offer to help out and make a note of what is needed to keep the environment safe for your mule or horse. Contribute to a mule or donkey charity. And research the charity first to make sure they are credible. You’re doing good here, so keep moving on with the list!
  5. Contribute to a mule or donkey charity. And research the charity first to make sure they are credible. You’re doing good here, so keep moving on with the list!
  6. Build up your stamina and muscle by exercising 3-4 days a week. You don’t
    have to be a Ninja fighter; proper balance and controlling your moves will keep you in the game longer. Moving up and down stairs several times is the simplest and easiest way to develop your agility. My secret weapon is 5-pound weights. I do 25 repetitions of curls, and 10 repetitions of the overhead shoulder press. I will do 10 sets each day and it works for me.
  7. Read a mule/donkey book from a trainer or professional you look up to. If you
    want to be entertained while reading on your favorite subject, pick up one of my books, they’ve been grouch-tested! (wink)
  8. Attend a clinic either as an auditor or rider. There’s always something to be
    learned or shared with others. There are many podcasts and online clinics you can attend to suit your needs. So many choices!
  9. Stay positive and celebrate your progress. Surround yourself with friends and
    family that have a healthy outlook and support your dreams. This is all good stuff here, keep moving, you got this!
  10. Learn to refine your aids (seats, legs, hands, etc…) Remember those Ninja moves you are working on number five on this list? This will help you to be able to strengthen your body and sharpen your riding skills. I see so many riders with poor posture, riding slumped over in the saddle. One false move
    during a ride, and bam! You’re dumped!
  11. On those non-riding days, get involved with horse board games such as:
    The Fantasy Ranch board game allows you to build and manage your own dream stables. This ranching horse board game includes three different levels, making it great for people of all ages. Herd Your Horses is an exciting board game that lets you play from the rancher’s or horse’s perspective. Horse Sense is a board game that will test your own horse knowledge. Throughout the game, you will learn about horse care, health, breeds, and riding. With over 200 hundred horse fact questions, your horse skills will be put to the test. This board game allows you to expand your horse knowledge while testing you on what you know. Gallop Home board game will put your equestrian skills to the test with this intricate board game. Players can try their hand as a horse trainer, with a full range and variety of skills to choose from. Horse Bingo board game, no matter your age, Bingo is something that you can enjoy playing. This rendition of Bingo takes it to the next level by incorporating horses into the game.
  12. Keep a journal. Record or document your rides. Keep a record of time spent with
    your mule. I go back and read the journals I have kept over the years; it is enlightening to me, humorous, and so rewarding!
  13. Here we are, the final round…make this a routine before your turn-in every night: Always check on the herd, say your prayers, and stay true to yourself. You’re worth it and we have a job to do. Remember, I’m counting on you.

Cindy K Roberts

Pulls Head Away – Pulls Lead Rope Out of Hands – Evasion Tactic

Cindy,

Thank you for all the great information you provided on understanding and handling mules. Your common sense approach is appreciated.

I have a question that I hope you can help me with. I have two mules that ride, drive, and try lots of stuff with. My 9-year-old molly is pretty advanced in her training, but has a big hole in her fundamentals. I know this is related to respect, but I don’t know how to correct it.

She appears very respectful and will do what I ask her to do. On the ground, she will move in any direction, side-pass away and to me, ground tie, etc. But, if I try to lead her off to somewhere she doesn’t want to go, she quickly bends her head away from me and pulls out of my hands! I am not as strong as a man, so I cannot use brute strength to match her size (she’s 16 hands). What can I do to get and keep her respect? This is the one thing that I HAVE to correct.

Thank you very much for any advice you can give me. ~ Joan

Hi Joan,

I have dealt with this very problem several times and it seems they all were mare mules too!  How funny.  The good news is, you don’t have to be as strong as a man to work with your mule.  I mean, look at me! The fact that your mule “surprised” you and was able to take advantage of the moment . . . well she got away with it so she will try it again.  There are a couple of things you can do: 

  1. You can use a training cable that will give you a better advantage. The Mustang Cowboy War Bonnet (don’t let the name scare you)  I have used this with getting good results. (shown above.)
  2. You can apply the cowboy halter (self-made from a lariat) that tightens when she pulls away from the handler. Go to this link on how to use it:  http://www.cowboyshowcase.com/cowboy-training-halter.html#.WCh7uIWcGhc
  3. You can work her in the round pen to establish respect and control.
  4. You can also use the Whoa Mule Bridle to establish control.  http://www.everycowgirlsdream.com/bridles.html This seems to be the easiest for handlers to use. 

In my experience, mare mules tend to get anxious or act up when they are in season.  Some mares don’t readily show signs that they are in season but their attitude will change. 

When your mule is “thinking” about pulling away from you – you should get a sixth sense about it and be able to react quickly to establish control.  Flexing her to the right and left daily would also aid in establishing control. 

I hope I have given you some workable solutions – I have applied all the above-mentioned training and they have all worked for me, it just depends on your skill set and what you feel like doing.  Thank you for your email Joan – please let me know how you are doing with this and if you need further help – let me know! ~Cindy K. Roberts