Last Updated on March 26, 2022 by Allison Price
Many riders tell me that they would like to purchase a mule for trail riding, hunting, or packing. These are the things that I find myself repeating to them all the time.
1. Mules will keep you humble.
Your ego can be smashed if you buy a mule if you have a large ego. Do you love to brag about how your mule loads into every trailer? You can do it in front a friend and be amazed at how your mule forgets how to load. You will be the one making them laugh so make sure you have a sense of humor.
2. Mules will always keep your safety… as long as you can ride on their back.
Many people mistakenly believe that a mule is their 1200-pound babysitter who will protect them from any harm. Mules are smart and have a strong self-preservation instinct. They will not allow themselves to be hurt or put themselves in danger. They will protect themselves, regardless of whether you are on their back. 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. You may not be hurt if you have a good seat. However, if you are a rider returning to the sport after being hurt/lost confidence/lost stirrups/stirups, you might be surprised.
Horses will jump from cliffs for you, but mules will be there to watch you as you fall off the edge.
3. You might regret buying a mule to have a hunting animal.
Some mules can pack anything. Others will lose their minds if they smell blood. Although most mules can be trained to handle this, for those who ride twice a year, one to help their horse get up for hunting season, and another to haul the hunter, it is possible to become frustrated and even depressed. You might even feel the need to hunt your mule, instead.
4. Mules don’t have a tendency to be stubborn.
Mules are smart and can outsmart their owners many times. You will always have to be one step ahead and in a constant state of trying out to outsmart a mule if you own one. It’s similar to mastering a skill or a videogame. Each one will become easier as you get better at it.
They keep me stimulated and amaze me when I outperform them.
5. You will see why so many people have mules once you know your mule and how it figures out.
They are loyal, trustworthy, and so fun to be around. They will make you feel at ease on the most difficult trails thanks to their surefootedness and brains underneath saddle. Even if you are having a bad day, they will make you laugh and bring a smile on your face. They are so cute! !
Go riding on a mule.
