Dakota’s Story!
This is an update from All About Equine Rescue.
All About Equine Animal Rescue, Inc.
Dakota
Dakota is a tribal mustang originally from the Dakotas. We first met him in the fall of 2021 when we picked him up from a distressed sanctuary.
He’s a little guy, mid-teens, and we were told he’d been ridden in the past. This handsome gelding was fearful of humans in general, but he really did not like it when anyone approached him from the side or behind too quickly. He also had painful heel cracks that closely approached his coronet bands. Dakota’s basic care had been neglected for some time.
Once at AAE, his hoof and dental care needs were met, and he received vaccines, deworming, and a microchip. During an exam, his concerns for people approaching from the left side and behind were discovered. He cannot see out of his left eye because the lens is detached.
Dakota is a very sweet, social guy. He seeks attention and enjoys grooming and interaction. He’s good with the vet and farrier. He loads fairly well, and travels fine. Dakota was introduced to a saddle, and he handled it well. He thoroughly enjoys his time in the pasture with his herdmates. However, he has a pull back issue when trying to remove him from his herd. When he’s brought in with one of his herdmates, he does very well. When handled and once removed from herd, he does well. Removing him alone is still a work in progress.
While we’ve loved spending time with the darling Dakota, we’d love it even more if he could find his forever person! If you think Dakota sounds like a match made in heaven, please visit his bio to learn more and submit an adoption inquiry.
Can’t adopt but want to help Dakota? Tell your friends, family, co-workers, and other horse people in your life about him!
Thank you for your support helping horses each and every day!
Your donations, volunteering, adopting, and social media shares & likes allow us to make this work possible!
Chilly Pepper – Starving horses are here! We picked up all 20 horses. Now the work begins.
The following is from Chilly Pepper – Miracle Mustang:
UPDATE – We have successfully pulled ALL 20 (not 18) horses in this rescue. THANK YOU MY CHILLY PEPPER FAMILY! AS ALWAYS, YOU ROCK!!
Now the real work begins.
With the good news comes sad as well. We had to say goodbye to Dusty, (one of the severely starved colts.) Doc had to end Dusty’s suffering as he was experiencing severe seizures to the point he couldn’t even stand up.
Snowman was suffering and after spending the night at the hospital Doc said it was time. Starvation is one of the most painful ways to die. It is excruciating and being starved will damage the organs where they often cannot be repaired.
Both left with full bellies, knowing they were loved.
So now the rehab and rehoming begin. I still need to get this last group vetted so they can travel when they are healthy enough.
I so appreciate all the love and support. We need lots & lots of hay, lol. With all these mouths to feed it’s gonna get interesting. They will all need grain, supplements etc. BASIN FEED – 509-773-4648 if you want to help with feed.
Doc’s number is 509-773-0369 if you want to help with the vet bill.
Thank you for your continued help with these precious lives.
I know God keeps sending us lots of emergencies, BUT IT IS TRULY LIFE AND DEATH for these horses. It is not just grabbing the cute ones, or the easy ones, or creating orphans so you can fundraise. It is stepping up and figuring out how to do the impossible. YOU, MY CHILLY PEPPER FAMILY, are the ones who do that. YOU are doing the real rescue for the horses with no other options. Let’s do it again. These horses are absolutely precious and deserve every good thing for the rest of their lives.
Let’s start 2023 by saving EACH AND EVERY ONE OF THESE PRECIOUS SOULS.
If you want to help with the Vet Bill, call Goldendale Veterinary at 509-773-0369.
I appreciate every single one of our Chilly Pepper Family. God has truly blessed this rescue!
Have a safe, blessed and life saving 2023!
IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO KEEP HELPING US SAVE MORE LIVES, YOU CAN GO TO:
-<You can go to gofundme<-
You can go to Paypal<-
PLEASE NOTE – Paypal shows Wild Horses in Need, as we are dba- Chilly Pepper
if you would like to help these horses.
->You can donate via check at: (PLEASE NOTE NEW PO BOX #)
Chilly Pepper – Miracle Mustang,
PO Box # 233
Golconda, NV 89414
You can also donate via credit card by calling Palomino at 530-339-1458.
NO MATTER HOW BIG OR HOW SMALL – WE SAVE THEM ALL!
SAVING GOD’S CRITTERS – FOUR FEET AT A TIME
Chilly Pepper – Miracle Mustang, WIN Project – Rescue & Rehab
We are now part of the WIN Organization
WIN (WILD HORSES IN NEED) is a 501c3 IRS EIN 55-0882407_
If there are ever funds left over from the cost of the rescue itself, the monies are used to feed, vet, care for and provide shelter and proper fencing for the animals once they are saved.
MULE CROSSING: Contemporary Mules
Mules played an important role in our country during the Reconstruction Period: they patiently worked the fields, packed necessary artillery for the army, and served as a durable riding and driving animal in the westward movement. With the coming of the industrial age, their uses were minimized and they were faced with the possibility of extinction in the march of progress. Today, through the persistent determination of mule enthusiasts, mules are once again emerging as a conceivable asset to our economy and a unique form of athletic achievement and entertainment.
With new and improved training techniques, the mules of today are known for their beauty and outstanding athletic ability, their durability and their intelligence. Their uses are limited only to the imaginations of their owners. It is now commonly known that with proper training, a mule can perform better than the horse it was bred from. Subsequently, mules are not only competing in mule shows, but horse shows as well—in events from cutting to dressage. Cattle ranchers have discovered the mule to be an important asset in their business. He can go all day without tiring and can cover terrain that might discourage a horse, not to mention that the ride is much more comfortable. Hunters caught in the heavy snows of the Rocky Mountains praise their mules for carrying out heavy game and blazing trails through treacherous snowy ground, leading them and their horses to safety. Sales persons are grateful to both mules and donkeys for their humorous contributions in advertising and children appreciate the companionship and affection that mules can offer. Even the army has conceded that mules could make their contribution to the economy through their use in mountain light infantry divisions. The only problem that arises is educating people on mule psychology so that they can train them properly.
Although mules look and often act a lot like horses, there is a vast difference between the two psychologically. If a horse is given green pastures, plenty of clear water, and friends of his own kind, he is generally contented; the mule needs more. He possesses a curiosity about the world around him that requires him to participate and interact. For instance, if you were to walk out into a field where horses were grazing, chances are they would give you a glance and continue their grazing with a certain amount of indifference. Mules, on the other hand, would be compelled to approach you and check you out. 
They will generally follow you around until you leave the field, begging for attention or simply observing you closely from a safe distance. Mules have a genuine desire to make friends with those other than their own species. Also, they are a very sensitive animal and can read your intentions through the tone of your voice and your body language.
Being the sensitive animal that they are, they have a low tolerance to pain. This contributes to their careful and deliberate way of going—a mule will do everything possible to keep himself safe. He is careful about his footing in treacherous terrain as well as careful about the feed he eats. Knowing this about mules can be a valuable aid in training. If a mule is not doing what you ask and you lose your temper, he will try anything and everything to escape the pain. This is where the old wives’ tales had their beginnings. Those who understand the mule’s low threshold for pain and understand his desire to please will either move on to something different if he is not giving the desired response, or introduce the lesson differently to clarify what is expected. In any case, beating a mule into submission will only cause fear and resentment, and being as intelligent as they are, they will only distrust you. Once they distrust you it is very difficult to make amends since they also possess an excellent memory!
In the early days, mules and horses had to be “broken” and trained quickly due to limited time for such matters. Trainers did not have the patience it takes to bring a mule along “right;” consequently the results were sayings such as: “Stubborn as a mule,” “Kick like a mule,” and “Get a mule’s attention with a two-by-four.” The old trainers may have succeeded in getting the mules to work, but they could never trust them… conversely, with broken spirits, the mules never trusted their trainers either.
Today good mule trainers apply the basic techniques of Behavior Modification (reward system training) in their programs. That is, getting the desired response through positive reinforcement and ignoring, as much as possible, the undesired behavior. Negative reinforcement, or punishment, is used sparingly and is never severe. Voice is an effective form of negative reinforcement. A firm “No” when he is misbehaving is generally sufficient, followed by a few minutes of ignoring him. If you have a mule that bites, a firm pinch on the nose, a “No,” then ignoring him for a bit should do the trick. If you have one who kicks, try your voice first. If he persists, quietly restrain a hind leg in a scotch tie while working on him. If he begins to kick in the scotch tie, stand back and ignore him until he has settled down. When he is settled, reward him by scratching his rear, and then resume your work. He will soon learn that he is responsible for causing his own pain and, preferring the reward, he should eventually cooperate.
Restraints are helpful in dealing with mules but must not be applied so they cause pain. Hobbles, leg straps, and scotch ties are generally all that is needed in dealing with difficult mules. Even if the mule has led a life of abuse, their ability to determine just who is responsible for their pain means that with love and kindness, they can be taught to trust again–it just takes a lot of time and patience. If you find restraints are not sufficient, you may be dealing with an outlaw, in which case it is best to put him out of his misery before he injures someone.
Still, the most important thing to remember is to praise the mule with caressing and scratching when he does what you desire and back it up with the food reward. Mules love this kind of attention and will do their best to get it. If they are rewarded immediately when they are behaving as desired, the desired behavior will eventually become the norm. If bad behavior is ignored or gently reprimanded, it will fade to a minimum. The result is a pleasant, affectionate, and dependable animal.
Though we are still a busy society, with the help of technology we are more able to give the mule the time and appreciation he deserves. Consequently, we are continually discovering new uses for the much maligned mule, enjoying him more, and in the process, we’re putting the old wives’ tales to rest.
Yesterday’s mules sturdy and strong
The days in the fields were often quite long
The man with the whips sometimes evened the score
With a jolt to the head by a stout two-by-four.
“Understanding” a word not common for slaves
Caused many good mules to go to their graves
“Stubborn and cranky are mules,” said most men
Who used and abused them then were kicked or bitten.
When industry triumphed, the mules quickly faded
But the tales remained and were often quite jaded
Twas never the man with the stout two-by-four
Who was wrong from the start to push mules way too far
But the folks who were ignorant knew only what’s said
And since mules cannot talk, their reputation was dead
They’re known to be pushy, vengeful, and cross
So man abandoned the mule for his exquisite horse.
With more time to our leisure the mules of today
Are treated much better and perform just that way
The love and affection the mules can now give
Makes raising and training them a warm way to live.
To meet them and greet them, to own one or not
The mules of today exhibit just what they got!
We’ve banned the “Old Wives’ Tales” and made a new rule
If you aren’t too stubborn, why not ride a mule!
To learn more about Meredith Hodges and her comprehensive all-breed equine training program, visit LuckyThreeRanch.com or call 1-800-816-7566. Check out her children’s website at JasperTheMule.com. Also, find Meredith on Facebook, YouTube and Twitter.
© 1985, 2016, 2020, 2023 Lucky Three Ranch, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
LTR Training Tip #80: Straight Forward Under Saddle Obstacles
Straight forward obstacles will help your equine to maintain and even improve his balance and coordination with a rider on board.
Introducing our OFFICIAL 2023 American Wild Horse Campaign Member Card…
The following is from the American Wild Horse Campaign:
We’re grateful for the generous donations supporters like you provide to AWHC year after year. As one of our most dedicated advocates, we wanted to make sure you received your virtual copy of our 2023 AWHC Member Card.
So here it is… Introducing our OFFICIAL 2023 American Wild Horse Campaign Member Card:
We have so much in store for 2023. Not only are we continuing our fight on the Hill, in courts, and in the field — we’re also working on a number of groundbreaking new initiatives — all in the name of keeping wild horses and burros in the wild where they belong.
We’re laser-focused on our mission to preserve the freedom of wild mustangs and burros. That means in 2023, we are:
Proving through our fertility control program on Nevada’s Virginia Range that humane, in-the-wild management works,
AND expanding our fertility control programs to other herds across the West;
Continuing our lawsuit against the Bureau of Land Management’s Adoption Incentive Program that’s sending horses and burros into the slaughter pipeline and our legal team is preparing for other upcoming legal battles;
Working with key legislators in Congress to pass wild horse-friendly legislation;
Spreading the word about the threats our cherished wild horses face through our national awareness campaign and celebrity ambassador program;
And so much more!!
Thank you for your support — both past and present. We’re grateful to have you along with us as we head into the new year.
— American Wild Horse Campaign
Introducing our OFFICIAL 2023 American Wild Horse Campaign Member Card…
The following is from the American Wild Horse Campaign:
You voted, so here it is (!!)
Introducing our OFFICIAL 2023 American Wild Horse Campaign Member Card:
We have so much in store for 2023. Not only are we continuing our fight on the Hill, in court, and in the field — we’re also working on a number of groundbreaking new initiatives — all in the name of keeping wild horses and burros in the wild where they belong.
We’re laser-focused on our mission to preserve the freedom of wild mustangs and burros. That means in 2023, we are:
Proving through our fertility control program on Nevada’s Virginia Range that humane, in-the-wild management works,
AND expanding our fertility control programs to other herds across the West;
Continuing our lawsuit against the Bureau of Land Management’s Adoption Incentive Program that’s sending horses and burros into the slaughter pipeline and our legal team is preparing for other upcoming legal battles;
Working with key legislators in Congress to pass wild horse-friendly legislation;
Spreading the word about the threats our cherished wild horses face through our national awareness campaign and celebrity ambassador program;
And so much more!!
But to have the means necessary to protect our beloved wild horses and burros for generations to come, we need your help. Will you renew your support as an AWHC member today to help fuel our fight in 2023?
| RENEW YOUR 2023 SUPPORT |
Thank you for your compassion and generosity.
— American Wild Horse Campaign
CHASITY’S CHALLENGES: Fine Tuning Chasity’s Response: 9-22-20
In the many years of the management and training of equines, I have learned how much the details really count! I learned about how much easier things can be when you are open minded and allow your education to grow. For instance, I learned how to train without the bit and bridle, but then learned that in doing so, I was not able to control postural development in the equine’s body. Thus, I invented my “Elbow Pull” as a response to Richard Shrake’s “Rhythm Collector.” I also found out that my “Elbow Pull” could be used in conjunction with the mild Eggbutt snaffle bit in a multitude of different ways, even for tying an animal. It is practically weightless and easily slips through the bit rings for optimum adjustment while the equine is in motion. It does need to be adjusted differently with horses, but the results are amazing as you can see with Chasity’s physical improvement.
Chasity’s huge cresty neck is practically gone now and the neck sweat has not been needed since she graduated to the Round Pen. This was because I have been repetitious in the way we execute ALL movements, even going through gates, in good equine posture! When we do this, Chasity uses ALL the muscles in her body to do these moves, and in this case, stretches across her spine to pull the Supraspinous ligament back into alignment while reducing the fatty tissues with efficient metabolic circulation. She is a lot more comfortable in her body, so standing quietly is no longer an issue.
Chasity has learned her verbal commands and responds promptly and quietly. Since donkeys do not freely exhibit as much energy as horses and mules, I only ask for five rotations at walk followed by five rotations at trot. As she is better able to keep her balance in good posture, the “Elbow Pull” remains loose, with very little tension throughout her whole workout.
Only now, instead of halting, resting and then changing direction, I do the whole exercise with a reverse in the middle for the change of direction. Her core is becoming more stable in her self-carriage. The muscles across her spine are becoming stronger and better able to support the weight of a rider.
She is relaxed, moves freely forward and most of the time halts four-square. Since she was a bit sticky with the reverse under saddle during her last lesson, I will add a step and ask for the reverse from the ground first.
Chasity understands what I mean and backs easily upon the command to “Back.” I then walk to the other end of the Round Pen and ask her to come to me with a verbal “Come,” also using hand signals. There is nothing more important than communicating clearly.
I politely ask Chasity to “Whoa,” with my hand put up like a “Stop” sign, and then mount her while she stands still. I pay special attention to lowering my seat slowly onto her back.
As I did in the Tack Barn when I first mounted her, I lean over to both sides and offer her reward of crimped oats for standing still, sit quietly in the saddle while she chews and then asked her to first rein back. I keep my contact VERY light, with an alternating squeeze/release from my little fingers on the reins, and a backward motion from my legs and seat.
When ready to go forward, I nudge her with my legs and then WAIT for her response. If she does not move right away, I nudge her again after waiting a few seconds. It will often take donkeys a little longer to THINK about what you are asking. It is far more productive to give them that time. Chasity walks off obediently and keeps her mind on her work as she passes Wrangler, waiting patiently for HIS turn!
I now add small circles randomly as we walk around the Round Pen. We pay special attention to staying erect and bending through the rib cage. I keep things slow, controlled and accurate.
We do “S” turns through the middle of the Round Pen to change direction. Speed can come later as the strength in good posture is developed and the connection to her bit remains light at all times.
I have discovered with this approach, there is hardly ever (if ever) any resistance or bad behaviors. Lessons go smoothly and safely for both of you. This is something I greatly appreciate with age!
Chasity maintains her good balance and cooperative attitude as we ride for about 15 minutes, practicing the circles, halts, “S” turns and reverses. Chasity comes to a “square” halt. I wait quietly for a few seconds.
Then I ask Chasity for a rein back and she compies easily…still light in the bridle. I dismount and tell her how pleased I am with her. I playfully massage her upper gums to illicit a smile! They like having their gums rubbed!
It was a very satifsfying workout for us both! Chasity follows me as we exit the Round Pen and get ready for Wrangler’s turn! Allowing one animal to wait while another is worked, makes it easier to do the training. They seem to get support from their “Friends.” Occasionally working them alone as they gain confidence lets them know that being with you can always be fun and that you will always return them to their friends. This approach allows you to deepen the relationship between you, so you become as good a friend to them as their equine companions. This greatly eliminates the incidence of your equine becoming herdbound.
UPDATE on the Starvation Case. 7 More Horses to Save if we can raise the funds to make it happen.
The following is from Chilly Pepper – Miracle Mustang:
UPDATE – There are still more horses to pull. (7 or 8, I believe).
We are working on getting the last ones, but still haven’t even begun to raise enough for the 1st group.
This is when I have to run on Faith Alone. We raised about $3000, and that just about covers yesterday’s vet bill which will easily be over $1500 for Coggins and some blood tests, and transportation for the youngsters to our sister rescue in Idaho.
We haven’t even begun to raise enough funds to feed and care for the 1st group, yet I need to grab the last ones. Luckily Dustin’ Time Rescue is taking on the youngsters, They will need help with rehabbing, feeding and gelding them..
Rescue is expensive. Hay costs are exorbitant, these kids obviously need lots of extra care, and we still have to feed our permanent residents.
Please help now if you want to save this last group of horses. As you can clearly see, they are in horrific shape. They ARE getting fed (PTL!) while we figure this out, as long as we “git ‘er done quickly.
I know we have lots of emergencies, BUT IT IS TRULY LIFE AND DEATH for these horses. It is not just grabbing the cute ones, or the easy ones, or creating orphans so you can fundraise. It is stepping up and figuring out how to do the impossible. YOU, MY CHILLY PEPPER FAMILY, are the ones who do that. YOU are doing the real rescue for the horses with no other options. Let’s do it again. These horses are absolutely precious and deserve every good thing for the rest of their lives.
Let’s start 2023 by saving EACH AND EVERY ONE OF THESE PRECIOUS SOULS.
If you want to help with the Vet Bill, call Goldendale Veterinary at 509-773-0369.
I appreciate every single one of our Chilly Pepper Family. God has truly blessed this rescue!
Have a safe, blessed and life saving 2023!
IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO KEEP HELPING US SAVE MORE LIVES, YOU CAN GO TO:
-<You can go to gofundme<-
You can go to Paypal<-
PLEASE NOTE – Paypal shows Wild Horses in Need, as we are dba- Chilly Pepper
if you would like to help these horses.
->You can donate via check at: (PLEASE NOTE NEW PO BOX #)
Chilly Pepper – Miracle Mustang,
PO Box # 233
Golconda, NV 89414
You can also donate via credit card by calling Palomino at 530-339-1458.
NO MATTER HOW BIG OR HOW SMALL – WE SAVE THEM ALL!
SAVING GOD’S CRITTERS – FOUR FEET AT A TIME
Chilly Pepper – Miracle Mustang, WIN Project – Rescue & Rehab
We are now part of the WIN Organization
WIN (WILD HORSES IN NEED) is a 501c3 IRS EIN 55-0882407_
If there are ever funds left over from the cost of the rescue itself, the monies are used to feed, vet, care for and provide shelter and proper fencing for the animals once they are saved.
LAST CHANCE! Help us pick our Official 2023 AWHC Member Card >>
The following is from the American Wild Horse Campaign:
We’re announcing the winning design for our Official 2023 American Wild Horse Campaign Member Card THIS FRIDAY!Make sure to cast your vote now and have a say in our final 2023 member card design! >>
A 2023 AWHC Member Card is *the perfect way* to show off your dedication to protecting America’s wild herds.
Option #1
Option #2
Option #3
911 FOR SUFFERING HORSES – URGENT HELP NEEDED – 18? STARVING HORSES NEED YOU NOW! WILL YOU SAVE THEM?
The following is from Chilly Pepper – Miracle Mustang:
We are starting off 2023 with a huge and tragic call for help.
There are 18? wild mustangs, domestics? who are starving to death.Their owners are deathly ill and have reached out for emergency help.
There are 6 ? young stallions who will need gelded, once they are stable enough for surgery, and every one of these will need special care extra groceries, vetting etc.
It costs roughly $450 to feed and care for one of these horses AFTER IT IS RESCUED. This DOES NOT include the initial expenses to save the horse, transportation, get it coggins and gelded if needed. Gelding can be $350 on up, and I HAVE TO RAISE ENOUGH to support every horse for at least 3 months.
Gelding the 6 stallions will be close to $3000 with their vaccines, and that is just a drop in the bucket.
WILL YOUHELP ME SAVE THESE LIVES?
I DO NOT WANT TO STAND IN FRONT OF A WET, COLD AND STARVING HORSE AND SAY “SORRY, BUT I COULDN’T RAISE ENOUGH MONEY TO SAVE YOU!”
I am heading out, but will ONLY be able to pick up as many as we have funds to take care of. We need at LEAST 3 MONTHS worth of groceries as hay is upwards of $30 a bale in many places for the good stuff and these kids obviously will need special feed and care.
PLEASE DONATE NOW SO I can get these kids to a warm dry place with good feed.
Let’s start 2023 by saving EACH AND EVERY ONE OF THESE PRECIOUS SOULS.
If you want to help with the Vet Bill, call Goldendale Veterinary at 509-773-0369.
I appreciate every single one of our Chilly Pepper Family. God has truly blessed this rescue!
Have a safe, blessed and life saving 2023!
IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO KEEP HELPING US SAVE MORE LIVES, YOU CAN GO TO:
-<You can go to gofundme<-
You can go to Paypal<-
PLEASE NOTE – Paypal shows Wild Horses in Need, as we are dba- Chilly Pepper
if you would like to help these horses.
->You can donate via check at: (PLEASE NOTE NEW PO BOX #)
Chilly Pepper – Miracle Mustang,
PO Box # 233
Golconda, NV 89414
You can also donate via credit card by calling Palomino at 530-339-1458.
NO MATTER HOW BIG OR HOW SMALL – WE SAVE THEM ALL!
SAVING GOD’S CRITTERS – FOUR FEET AT A TIME
Chilly Pepper – Miracle Mustang, WIN Project – Rescue & Rehab
We are now part of the WIN Organization
WIN (WILD HORSES IN NEED) is a 501c3 IRS EIN 55-0882407_
If there are ever funds left over from the cost of the rescue itself, the monies are used to feed, vet, care for and provide shelter and proper fencing for the animals once they are saved.
North Dakota’s only wild horse herd is at risk of being *totally* eliminated. ACT NOW >>
The following is from the American Wild Horse Campaign:
The wild horses who call North Dakota’s Theodore Roosevelt National Park home are in serious danger. The National Park Service (NPS) is proposing a plan that could potentially eliminate the historic herd in its entirety.
Currently, the park is home to at least 186 wild horses. The Teddy Roosevelt horses have roamed the badlands for centuries, and many believe they are descendants of Sitting Bull’s horses and are related to the rare Nokota breed. They are a significant part of the historical and natural heritage of the park and are the only wild horse herd in North Dakota, but the NPS’ new plan threatens to wipe them out.
We cannot allow this plan to move forward.Thankfully, there is still time to stop it. The NPS is accepting public comments on the plan until January 31st – meaning we have two weeks to provide our input. Will you use your voice and call on the NPS to abandon its disastrous plan?
Currently, the agency’s preferred plan is to reduce the wild horse population to zero in a phased approach. This is unacceptable. These horses deserve to be protected.
Thank you,
AWHC Team
CHASITY’S CHALLENGES: Chasity’s First Ride: 9-15-20
Chasity has come a long way since the end of March. She has worked hard and is now enjoying true strength in a balanced and correct equine posture. Her health has greatly improved as has her mental attitude. She is happy to be working with her companion Wrangler and they both enjoy being able to share their lessons. Sometimes they are walked together to the Round Pen and sometimes they are taken separately. This promotes independence while preserving their friendships with each other. I do not believe in deliberately separating my equines from their equine friends as that will only create anxiety. I want them to know that I am also a friend that they would like to spend time with or without their other companions. Sometimes they are worked alone and sometimes they are worked together. Tying one outside the Round Pen while working the other teaches them to stand quietly while tied with purposeful patience. I leave nothing to chance, so I break everything down into doable steps to promote success. Chasity is mounted in the work station first and rewarded with crimped oats from her back. This routine will keep her attention when we finally go to the Round Pen as she is mounted.
Chasity executes the gate perfectly, stands quietly to have her “Elbow Pull” adjusted and is then sent on the rail to lunge in preparation for mounting. She is now keeping her “Elbow Pull” loose at all times. Her balance and good posture is exceptional now considering her imperfect conformational restrictions.
I slow Chasity to the walk before asking her to execute a nice balanced reverse and she complies easily. It is important in the beginning to keep things slow and accurate. Speed can come later with much better results.
Chasity will now walk on command and will not change her gait until she is asked. She fully understands the verbal commands. She has smooth, upward and downward transitions as she changes gaits. She promises to be a smooth ride!
I ask Chasity for a halt and offer her a reward for a job well done! She is patient and stands quietly as I mount.
As I did in the work station, I offer her a reward from both sides. When she has finished chewing her oats, I ask her for the rein back. I use an even squeeze/release on the reins with a bit more pressure on one side and then the other as each front leg comes back. Even one step is sufficient for now. Chasity will give more with each new lesson.
Chasity walks calmly forward and I sit quietly to allow her to balance my weight. She keeps her body erect and bends through her rib cage as she executes an “S” turn through the middle to change direction. It is important to execute these moves with the lightest pull from my little fingers on the reins to encourage Chasity to become ultra-light in the bridle.
Donkeys tend to “lean” on the bit, so doing this kind of work in the Round Pen is really important if you want your donkey to be light in the bridle and respond to the lightest pressure from your seat, fingers and legs.
Be prepared to spend a lot of time on this. It will enhance all your donkey’s responses to your cues. Chasity executes a nice reverse and maintains her ideal balance at the walk afterwards. This is not easy for her to do with her hips being higher than her shoulders, but I am very pleased with her progress. She will only get better!
Chasity does a perfect halt, but is a bit reluctant to rein back. This move is difficult for her, so I will just take my time and accept what she has to offer. I know she is always honest in her attempts. One step is good, so I call it quits and reward her efforts.
Wrangler is outside the Round Pen waiting patiently for his “Lady Love” to complete her lesson. Then we all head back to the work station after our enjoyable time together! More lessons will promote more learning and more refined performance! We all look forward to our time together!
LTR Training Tip #79: Seat Leg Cues
In order for your seat and leg cues to be accurate and clear to your equine, you will need to improve stability in your own seat and balance.
![Help us select our Official 2023 American Wild Horse Campaign member card. [[Shows each of 3 options: Option 1 shows a brown mustang looking head on into the camera and says "2023 Member" Option 2 shows a dozen mustangs grazing in the field in the sunset and says "Giving Them A Voice" and Option 3 has a big "2023" in the background and shows a brown and a white stallion running towards the camera]] VOTE NOW!](https://ci6.googleusercontent.com/proxy/TDefxCKzc8F7mD9RLczZqddhMNEDDB1pa0ETZ7tMnWyEZ9HZT5n7Fg-51G_vWQmUUxgOylfz69zp5vto4fHk19WHaUHnE_vFNClpoTDyZJ-Wy50A3WvBWIDkVkRLsl-iORIGAo24zagTAFvXSmUrl0YN1GFP5JLsNIpdBBY=s0-d-e1-ft#https://prod.cdn.everyaction.com/images/van/EA/EA002/1/67303/images/AWHC-MembershipCardVote1%20%281%29.png)
Help us pick our Official 2023 AWHC Member Card >>
The following is from the American Wild Horse Campaign:
Can you help us pick our 2023 AWHC Member Card?
We’re asking dedicated American Wild Horse Campaign supporters like you to cast your vote and help us select our Official 2023 AWHC Member Card design!
Option #1
Option #2
Option #3
A 2023 AWHC Member Card is a great way to show off your dedication to protecting America’s wild herds.Will you cast your vote and let us know which design is your favorite?
We’ll be announcing the winner soon!
— American Wild Horse Campaign
MULE CROSSING: Train Your Own Mule!
By Meredith Hodges
Mules and donkeys are wonderful animals. They’re strong, intelligent and what a sense of humor! But training a mule or donkey is different from training a horse. They require love patience, understanding and a good reward system. Negative reinforcement should be used sparingly and only to define behavioral limits. The result is an animal that is relaxed, submissive, obedient, dependable and happy with his work.
Mule and donkey owners find it difficult to find trainers for their Longears because most horse trainers are unfamiliar with the psychological needs required by Longears to invoke positive responses from them. Those trainers who are capable are few and far between, making it difficult for inexperienced owners in remote areas to get their animals trained properly. Many people attempt to train their own animals and achieve a certain level of success despite the trials and tribulations of trial and error. This can be a long and frustrating road.
We are fortunate enough today to have all kinds of books and videos available on training Longears. However, it wasn’t that long ago when there was virtually nothing published on this subject. Those of us who were training needed to use educational resources published on horse training and modify those techniques to better suit our Longears. This still left a lot of room for trial and error…and frustration for both the trainer and the animal.
Interest in Longears has grown tremendously over the past 50 years. With this increased interest has come an increase in the numbers of animals that need to be trained each year. The few trainers who are competent with Longears could not possibly train even most of the animals that need it, even if it were geographically possible—which it isn’t. Owners usually need to travel distances to visit an animal in training, which limits their own ability to learn with their Longears. This can also become a problem when the animal returns home.
Seminars and clinics are helpful, but they cannot replace the day to day routine that helps produce a safe, obedient and dependable animal. Mules and donkeys bond to the person or persons who train and work with them. They develop a warmth and affection for them, and a desire to please and to serve. Without this bond, mules and donkeys will often comply, but without commitment to their work. Subsequently, when the pressure is on, they may “quit” on you in an instant.
Many people have complained about sending their animal to a trainer for as long as two years, only to have the animal return home and become a problem within as little as three months. It is important to take an active part in the training of your Longears. The more you can be a part of the training, the better for both you and your animal. Even if your mule or donkey is with a competent trainer, you need to plan on spending at least two days a week with your animal and the trainer so that your animal learns to trust you as well as the trainer. Being present and interactive with your animal at feeding time will solidify the trust he gains.
A lot of people ask me why I quit taking outside Longears for training here at the Lucky Three Ranch. In all honesty, I had developed a waiting list I could not possibly have fulfilled in a reasonable amount of time. I would, however, really like to see more people having fun and enjoying their Longears as much as I do. I considered doing clinics like so many trainers do, but I felt I could reach more people through a video and book training program with my technical support only a phone call away. Hence, I developed my training series, “Training Mules and Donkeys. Time and time again, my training series proves that this was a great way to reach people and help them to reach new levels of communication with their animals. People who never before had the courage nor confidence to even attempt such a thing are discovering the self satisfaction and elation of training their own mules and donkeys. Most people tell me it is the best part of their day when they can work with their animals. They are quite surprised at how easy it is to establish a routine that fits with their other weekly activities…thanks to the intelligence and forgiveness of these wonderful animals.
I had been involved with training horses most of my natural life before I began training mules at my mother’s Windy Valley Ranch in Healdsburg, California almost 40 years ago. I knew nothing of Longears at the time I started there. I tried all kinds of “suggestions” from other people and by trial and error—and a lot of resistance—I somehow managed to get a lot of mules trained, but I knew there had to be an easier way. I have to applaud the forgiveness of these mules in the face of my own impatience and ignorance. They let me know when my approach to training was unrealistic and punitive, and did so in a knowing and careful way. My lessons with them were proportionate to my mistakes, so I was lucky enough not to experience anything like head injuries or broken bones. When these kinds of injuries occur, there is something grossly wrong between the animal and the person who has been injured. It could be a lot of reasons, but the one thing of which I can be sure is that the animal acted appropriately for himself, and the problem occurred because there was a lack of communication.
When we raise our children, we begin with nurturing, love, affection and play. The way we play outlines certain behavioral limits for our children and helps them to develop and learn to socialize in a positive and healthy manner. As the child grows, family interaction helps him to define for himself his place in the world. Appropriate physical activities help the child’s body to develop in a slow and healthy way. School, in its natural and logical order helps the child to understand and learn to react appropriately in society and in the world. It helps to develop the confidence on which his self image and self worth is built. Physical activities increase with intensity, strengthening the physical well being of the child. This takes longer than 18 years. How can we, in all good conscience, expect our young Longears to develop in a healthy way, both physically and mentally, if we expect them to learn the same kinds of things in so much less time?
At first, you might think there just isn’t enough time to spend with your animal to accomplish all this, but somehow we all manage to make time for these things when we have children. We learn to experience and grow with our children, as we can also do with our animals by being realistic with our expectations at each stage of growth and training. We give ourselves the time to do this without the pressure of being hurried. There are few times in this world when we are really able to “stop and smell the roses.” Longears can afford us this very special time if you only let them. Look upon the time with your donkey or mule as you would look upon the time you spend with your child. Some days will be for learning and some for just plain fun. When there are learning days, try to make them fun and stress-free. Someday you’ll find yourself saying: “I can’t believe he has turned out to be so good. I never really felt like I was ‘training’ him!”
To learn more about Meredith Hodges and her comprehensive all-breed equine training program, visit LuckyThreeRanch.com or call 1-800-816-7566. Check out her children’s website at JasperTheMule.com. Also, find Meredith on Facebook, YouTube and Twitter.
© 2000, 2011, 2012, 2016, 2018, 2022, 2023 Lucky Three Ranch, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
ACT NOW: Protect the Wild Horses of the Teddy Roosevelt National Park!
The following is from the American Wild Horse Campaign:
We’ve got a lot to share with you in this week’s eNews, including:an opportunity to take action to protect a wild herd that calls the Teddy Roosevelt National Park in North Dakota home, an introduction to Withers Jr., one of the Virginia Range’s beloved stallions, and an inside look at a recent rescue that saved 22 burros from slaughter!
Read on to learn more and speak up for our cherished wild herds! >>
Speak Up for the Wild Horses of the Teddy Roosevelt National Park
Photo: National Park Service
The historic wild horses that live in the Teddy Roosevelt National Park in North Dakota are currently stuck in the crosshairs of the National Park Service and need your help. Right now, the agency is considering three management proposals that will determine whether or not the Teddy Roosevelt horses will have a future on the lands they have called home for centuries. Please take one moment to speak up for these beloved mustangs.
Meet the Mustang: Withers Jr., a Nevada Stallion
Photo: Deb Sutherland
Meet Withers Jr., an incredible Nevada stallion! When AWHC volunteer Deb Sutherland first saw him on the Virginia Range in 2017, he was just a tiny newborn colt walking next to his mother. Fast forward to today → He is the proud lead stallion of his own band with three beautiful mares to protect!
ICYMI: A Holiday Rescue of 22 Burros
Last month, we received word from California-based, Auction Horses Rescue (AHR) that a load of 22 donkeys – mostly BLM burros, many pregnant – were being directly shipped to slaughter. In a collaborative effort between AWHC, AHR, Skydog Sanctuary and Oscar’s Place, these burros are now safe.
Thanks for reading. And thank you for continuing to stand up for our cherished wild horses and burros!
— AWHC Team
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