MULES IN TRANSITION...
Mules were brought into this country because of their ability to adapt. They say you can throw a mule out of an airplane and it will hit the ground ready to go. This all may be true. However, mules, like the rest of us, need time to adapt to a new environment. This is not so much a physical adaptation, but mental! As trainers, we get mules from all over the country. As a rule of thumb, it takes them between 2 to 4 weeks to get over the shock of being in a new environment. This rule applies to every major change in a mules life... just as it does with us. When your mule arrives here, we adjust our training to allow for their period of transition. This means, we give them time to learn the daily routines and to become familiar with the new people in their lives.
When they arrive, we begin by showing the mule what is expected of them, what is tolerated, and what is not. They learn very quickly that the bad habits they bring with them will not work here. This is done by consistent reinforcement of respectful behavior from the moment we catch them to the moment we turn them loose back into their pen. At the same time, we need to be aware of their fragile state of mind. Many times mules that have been raised by people and have had a consistent environment throughout their entire lives will exhibit very different behavior after being left in a new environment. For example, mules that have been in your pocket throughout their lives may not allow us to even touch them without resisitence. This drastic change in personality is a defense mechanism brought on by the change in their environment which makes them insecure.
So, what do we do about it? We wait. We show them how to perform. We show them that it is fun. Through learning they regain (or obtain) their confidence. This is what makes them meet you at the gate wanting to learn. Therefore, throughout the four months of their training with us, we witness major changes in the mules behavior. From timid or aggressive to proud and willing to learn. At the end of the first month in their new environment, they have no idea what is ahead of them. Most mules are usually pretty mad about their loss of control. They are being driven daily and working hard, however, at this stage most mules aren't even close to being a willing partner in training. This is why training a mule for 30 days doesn't work. At the end of 30 days, they are usually at their lowest point in spirit than any other time during their training.
It's been 4 months. Your mule is now happy, well adjusted, proud and eager to learn on a daily basis. You come for your lessons and your mule behaves beautifully. He has been taught to trust people and our judgment. This is what allows us to take them out on the trail alone, to lay them down, or any other action we desire. Now, it's time for you to take your kindergartner home. (Remember, four months is barely a start). What do you think will happen in your mules new environment. Many people make the mistake of expecting too much of their mule when they arrive home. Remember, home is now the new environment! You, as owner, are RESPONSIBLE to help your mule through this transition, just as we did. This means that when you get home, you may feel your working out the kinks on your mule... really you are just waiting for the transition period to expire. You are just waiting for your mule to adjust and adapt!
Pass around mules obtain that stereotype because they are not allowed adequate time for transition. Peoples lack of patience is the downfall for that animals future and a failure on the part of the owner. Thus, we must all take time to allow for proper transition and earning our new animals trust. Whenever you acquire a new mule, remember... be patient. Show your animal what is expected of them and that it is better than being in their pen. Allow them time to get to know their new handler. But above all, try to make it enjoyable and successful for you and your mule!!
RIDE LIKE THE WIND, MY FRIEND!!
