Your mindset depicts on how you view the world, your environment, the people you interact with; in other words, it portrays your ability to process information. Keep this in mind; mules are very adamant in their thinking. It’s black and white, accepting or not; and this is why mules are referred to as being strong-willed. If you use the word stubborn, you can add single-minded to the following list of undesirable traits found in some equine trainers:
Balky
Bloody-minded (those British are humorous aren’t they?)
Bullheaded
Cantankerous
Contumacious (yes, I had to look this one up)
Firm
Hardheaded
Insubordinate
Opinionated
Persevering
Pertinacious
Pigheaded
Rebellious
Recalcitrant – go ahead, look it up. 😉
Refractory
Self-willed
Set in one’s ways
Stiff-necked
Unbending
Unmanageable
Unreasonable
Unshakable
Would you choose a trainer with these traits to work with your mule? And, after hiring a trainer to work with your mule, are you involved and participating as well? If not, you would be wise to be involved with your mule’s training. You see, mules develop quirks from a negative incident that the mule willnot forget. Even though mules are forgiving of your mistakes, a mule knows if you are working with him or not. Successful mule handlers recognize each mule as an individual and address challenges in a resistance-free approach. Successful mule trainers know that choosing the shortest training process to get results doesn’t produce a safe and willing mule. So the 30, 60, 90 day rule of horse training will not apply successfully with mules. Developing a partnership is the most desirable and successful training method to use when working with mules.
Oh, the undesirable traits listed in this article? My grandfather was in charge of the mules in the U.S. Army Cavalry back in 1924. Yes, he was a mule-skinner. He wasn’t nice about his training methods either, when working with the mules. Chauvinistic and domineering, he smoked horrible-smelling cigars and he loved his whiskey. Yes, I was introduced to his rough start at mule training. However, I spent a lifetime of learning how to work with mules in a positive way. So, as a result, we can learn from the abusive training techniques that were used and become successful mule handlers during this process.
We can check our attitude before we put our boots on to head to the barn. Make sure your heart and mind are in a good place before you leave your front porch. Before my feet hit the floor in the morning, I thank God for another day and for blessing my life with mules. My heart and soul belong to the mule.
Working with a mule that is distracted; it can easily be a herd member calling out to another when working with your mule in the round pen. Or it can be, that he’s very aware of new things that have been moved around the barn, a baggy blowing in the breeze…you get my drift. Some mules quickly look for the exit door when learning a new task requiring intense concentration. Knowing this, I keep the lesson short and reward on the slightest try. The focus here is keeping things favorable for the mule. Mule trainers recognize this and implement the resistance-free training methods with the reward system.
Performance-bred mules are quick on their feet. This mule was a challenge to keep focused on learning a new task.
As mule trainers, we know how to work around livestock. The work is never easy but that’s why we do it. Sure, you sweat when training a horse, but horses can be pushed around, mules simply won’t tolerate it. It takes a mindset to work with them, the mind games, testing you, questioning your resume… every day is like appearing on a game show, going up against the champion.
Well pal, it’s like this. You signed up for this. There’s no whining, and you have the tenacity and grit to do this. As a trainer, you know that working with clients in the mule industry is demanding. You are putting your reputation on the line. It’s part of the job, it goes with the territory and you choose to be a winner.
As mule trainers, it is important that you recognize a distraction as just that, a distraction. When working hard at a project, we are emotionally involved and focused on getting the job done in a timely manner. If family members are involved in our work environment, we could be challenged with a situation, and things can get difficult. Criticism is not well received when working hard, feeling pressured, and pushing yourself to succeed. Not only are you dedicated to your work, but you are sincere, on the level, and forthright about your career moves. You play by the rules.
Well, not everyone plays by the rules. And now, it can get sticky. Aside from not liking it, you are aggravated in the process and the pressure takes over to a point where you feel like lashing out or calling him or her out. In the Old West, when calling out someone, you would meet your rival out in the dusty street with your six-shooter strapped on. You took up playing the piano to keep your trigger finger ready. Hmm…
Truly, in today’s world, this is a distraction to your success and doesn’t deserve your time and energy. Distractions are such energy drainers, that your time is better spent on moving forward with your business plan. As professionals working in the mule trade, we strive to focus on the things that matter most. We are concerned with:
Round pen training is ideal when introducing a new task to the mule.
Positive growth in the mule industry.
Moving forward and keeping our energy positive.
Keeping business records current and organized.
Taking time off when needed to refresh our own business persepctive.
Staying committed to our training program.
Training mules through an honest approach and not by trickery or deceit.
Respecting livestock and providing care for them.
Developing a partnership with our mules to gain their trust.
Working with clients in the field, one-on-one to address their concerns.
Living and working by a code of conduct that builds on our integrity.
Renewing our strength to remain driven and focused.
Documenting what works and learning from our mistakes.
Positively using the social media platform in a positive manner to promote the mule industry.
Surrounding ourselves with friends and family that support our dreams.
Passing on our knowledge to others in hopes they will keep our mule legacy ongoing.
Establishing a reliable team with a skillset in training mules, to assist when needed.
Being supportive to others in the mule industry.
Challenging ourselves to perform better.
We can easily become hard on ourselves for different reasons. Working as professionals in the mule industry is not easy, but we accept the challenges and have a work ethic. An ethic we are proud of.
Your strength and commitment is needed. It’s not all glory and glamour, we know this. It’s tough, the entire mule industry requires a winning attitude. Your passion for mules will drive you. You’re the one that our youth look up to. They want to be just like you! Your high-profile and notariety is recognized. Your character is exceptional and you reflect on your potential and ability to remain positive in the mule industry. Stay focused, maintain your integrity, and don’t allow distractions to overcome your own success…the mules need you.
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.
Here we are, let’s get at it! If you have questions, you know where to find me.
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.
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.
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)
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!
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!
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.
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)
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!
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!
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!
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.
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!
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.
On the trail, I meet a lot of riders who tell me they want to buy a mule for trail riding, hunting, packing, etc. Here are some of the things I find myself saying to them on a regular basis.
1. Mules will always keep you humble.
If you have a big ego and you end up buying a mule, your ego will be knocked down a few notches. Does your mule load into every trailer, no matter what, and do you like to boast about it? Do it in front of someone you just met and watch in disbelief as your mule suddenly forgets how to load. They will take every opportunity to make a fool out of you, so you better have a good sense of humor since you will be the brunt of all their jokes.
2. Mules will always keep you safe… if you can stay on their back, that is.
A lot of people have the misconception that a mule being their 1200-pound babysitter will keep them from all harm. The thing is, mules are very smart and have a great self-preservation instinct. They DO NOT in any circumstance want to get themselves hurt or to put themselves in a situation where they could die. They will keep themselves safe, whether you’re on their back or not. That includes jumping 30 feet sideways at a potential mule-eating bush or bolting away at a dead run from an angry water bottle/bicyclist/plastic bag/dog/whatever else could kill them. If you have a really good seat, you may not get hurt, but if you’re a rider getting back into the sport because you’ve been hurt/lost your confidence/lost your stirrups and confidence at the same time, you might be unpleasantly surprised.
A horse will jump off a cliff for you, but a mule will watch as you go plummeting off the edge while he’s sitting high and dry.
3. If you end up getting a mule so you have a pack animal that you can use for hunting, you might be disappointed when that said mule is petrified of the smell of blood.
Some mules will pack anything, some mules will lose their minds when they smell blood. Yes, most of them can be trained eventually to get over this but for the guy/girl that only rides twice a year: one to leg their horse up for hunting season and two for the actual hunt, you might be very frustrated and let down and you might even lose your cool so much that you will have the urge to hunt your mule instead of that deer.
4. Mules are not stubborn.
They are extremely smart and will a lot of times outsmart their owner. If you own a mule you will constantly have to be one step ahead of them and constantly be in a state of trying to outsmart them. It’s like conquering a video game, mastering an instrument, or something of the sort to me. Once you figure one out, each one will be easier and easier.
They keep me thinking and always impress me when they outsmart me.
5. Once you figure out your mule and your mule figures out you, you will realize why so many people have mules.
They become extremely loyal and trustworthy and their personalities are so enjoyable. Their surefootedness and brains under saddle will ease you even in the trickiest of trails. They will keep you laughing and bring a smile to your face even if you’re having a terrible day.
This is a post that has been shared on social media by Cross Country Equine.
The mule being a different animal, should be recognized as individuals and trained accordingly; those 63 chromosomes produce a unique and hardy animal that has an emotional side to him as well as a calculating mind that enables him to think things through when approached with a new task from his handler. If you take into consideration the physiological components in a mule, and understand their meaning and what they provide, then working with your mule will now be rewarding and far more productive. The physiological components of the mule are listed below.
Vision – The mule’s eyes are among the largest of any land mammal and are positioned on the sides of the head. The range of vision is 350°, with approximately 65° of this being binocular vision and the remaining 285°is monocular vision. This enables him to spot predators or potential predators. The mule’s wide range of monocular vision has two “blind spots,” or areas where the animal cannot see: in front of the face, making a cone that comes to a point at about 3–4 ft in front of the mule, and right behind its head, which extends over the back and behind the tail when standing with the head facing straight forward.
The placement of the mule’s eyes decreases the possible range of binocular vision to around 65° on a horizontal plane, occurring in a triangular shape primarily in front of the mule’s face. Therefore, the mule has a smaller field of depth perception than a human. The mule uses its binocular vision by looking straight at an object, raising its head when it looks at a distant predator or focuses on an obstacle to leap over. To use binocular vision on a closer object near the ground, such as a snake or threat to its feet, the mule drops its nose and looks downward with its neck somewhat arched.
Hearing – Mules hear sounds over a wider range of frequencies than we do, although the decibel levels they respond to are about the same. Humans with good hearing perceive sound in the frequency range of 20 Hertz to as high as 20,000 Hertz, while the range of frequencies for mules is reported as 55 to 33,500 Hertz with their best sensitivity between 1,000 and 16,000 Hertz. The mule’s ears are shaped to locate, funnel, and amplify sounds. Mules have the ability to rotate each ear independently as much as 180 degrees to pay attention to a sound without turning the head. The ears are also used to express and communicate.
Smell – The mule has an acute sense of smell that they regularly employ to provide them with information on what is going on around them. Mules use their sense of smell in many different and important ways. Mother Nature equipped the mule with a strong olfactory sense that can tell the animal whether a predator is near. All it takes is a strong upwind breeze to bring a dangerous scent to the attention of a wild herd of donkeys, mules, and horses. After getting a whiff of the predator, the herd literally high-tails it (their tails stick way up in the air as they flee) out of there in a flash. Although domestic equines are kept in an environment where they are protected from predators, the instinctive behavior of being highly aware of their surroundings is self-inflicted. The mule has developed a high sense of self-preservation and will not approach danger.
Skin – The skin of a mule is less sensitive than that of a horse and more resistant to sun and rain. This makes mules a dependable option for owners who work outside in harsh weather and strong sunlight. Mules are slightly less sensitive to the elements because Mother Nature intended them to be hardy. But remember a mule uses their skin, lips, hair, nose, and their muzzle to their physiological advantage. Their sense of touch is their most acute sense. The mule can sense a fly anywhere it lands on them, and twitch that specific muscle to get the fly off.
The skin also provides a protective barrier, regulating temperature, and provides a sense of touch. Mules from draft horse mares and mammoth jackstock breeding will have a different thickness of skin; their skin will be thicker. Mules from Thoroughbred mares tend to have skin sensitivity issues due to their skin being thinner.
How sensitive a mule is, depends on the age, the training, and the breeding. A mule that is overly sensitive to touch will usually stay that way during his lifetime; it is simply physiological and nothing more. Older mules tend to be less sensitive to touch and appear to be more settled. In addition to being responsive to pressure and pain, mules can also sense vibration, heat, and cold. Mules are capable of bracing the muscles in their body to protect themselves from intense pain (from abuse or a heavy handler) such as a whip or spur.
Researchers from Northwest A&F University in Yangling, China, are doing research on the molecular mechanisms at work in mules that provide this superior muscular endurance. Their genetic testing of samples from crosses between donkeys and horses mapped a total of 68 genes in the “muscle contraction” pathway, eight of which were found to be significantly enriched in mules. In the hybrid individuals and their parents, one of these enriched genes, TNNC2, was mainly expressed in the fast-skeletal (facial) muscle. Its expression level was found to be two times higher in the mule than in the horse. So, if you think that mule is making faces at you, he probably is.
Taste – mules prefer sweet and salty tastes, so they will usually meet their requirement of salt if it is provided in a block form. You can “doctor” a mule’s grain with molasses or honey to eat crushed medicine, however, 90% of the time, the mule is onto you. They use their keen sense of smell to aid them in identifying what is in their bucket. Mules being individuals will be up front with you whether they like or dislike what is on the menu. Some mules refuse treats altogether; others may develop a strong desire for apples, corn or carrots.
The mule I am working with now, insisted we have a trusting relationship before she would accept anything from me in the form of treats or grain. I could halter her, and start working with her, but her heart just wasn’t in it. She needed to know that she could trust me; in other words, her give-a-damn was busted. That’s just who she is. Due to her history, I can understand that; and I don’t blame her for this quirk. Today, we make great riding partners, and…she loves margaritas. [Note: no, do not allow your equine friend to drink alcohol.]
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.
Mother Nature made them this way. Decisive on their likes and dislikes, they are judgmental animals. You might say they view things in black and white. Either they like it or they absolutely don’t. It’s not that the mule has ESP or can read your mind, but he is very good at reading the situation. And a mule isn’t going to work at something that he doesn’t like. Now that you know this, try not to be a knucklehead when working with your mule, whether it is a new task you are introducing or just spending time on the trail.
Mules are sensitive; they have a keen sense of smell and acute hearing and they are athletic like his horse mother. The thinking side of the mule comes from his father, the donkey jack. This is what makes this hybrid a unique animal to work with. Their high sense of self-preservation is what makes the mule an excellent trail partner. They certainly won’t allow them to be in a situation that could cause them harm.
Comfort is everything to the mule. They will not tolerate ill-treatment or endure incorrectly fitted tack, saddles, or a saddle pad that does not allow for good wear or comfort. Behavior issues will quickly develop if the mule is in discomfort or suffering from pain. A mule that is experiencing discomfort may toss his head, try to rush downhill, buck, kick out, move sideways, gape at the mouth, or even rear. See? This is more valuable information you now know…so try not to be a knucklehead when saddling or trying out new gear on your mule. Keeping your tack and gear clean is ideal and of course, you should adjust it several times during your ride, be aware when your mule gains/loses weight, and take notice of hair density…it’s not rocket science, but you are dealing with an animal that is smarter than you (and me) so, try to keep up.
If the mule’s negative behavior escalates, a vet or massage therapist may be the answer.
If you are needing to find an answer to your situation I am glad to talk with you. Contact info: everycowgirlsdream@gmail.com. www.everycowgirlsdream.com/store.html
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.
