--- In [email protected], "rachel Jenkins" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: > >> > I read an article by John Lyons where he said that pressure and release > worked particularly well for mules since intimidation methods, often used on > horses, don't work with mules. My llama has a similar, mule-like > personality-smart, self-serving, can't be intimidated, doesn't care a bit > what I want-but he does respond readily to pressure and release. Again, I've > never ridden or driven him either! >
Right, mules do not respond to force at all, so if people are used to using this kind of method with horses, they are going to be in for a shock when it comes to a mule. I don't think they get intimidated, or maybe they do, I find they are very sensitive souls, but instead of running away, or shutting down and giving in, I think mules are more likely to fight, someone trying this kind of thing may end up with a well placed kick to some area of their body. They just figure they will get rid of you that way. I find the mules respond very well to clicker training, they get right on board and we have something going on there, they respond much better to me, the softer I am, they respond to fairness, and clear instructions, they are usually happy to comply if I am being fair and clear (to them) with what I want. Honestly, I don't find that an awful lot of pressure works to well with them at all, even if there is a release, if I just make things clear to them, and ask nicely, we get along great. I secretly love the part of mules that won't put up with unfairness, why should they? They think an awful lot of themselves, I love it. But, I guess my question is, why *shouldn't* we treat all equines with this kind of respect, why *should* we use any kind of intimidation methods with horses, just because we can? I think all it going to do is get the horse to respond like a robot, with no heart in it at all, mules just won't even go there, but maybe they can teach us a lesson, they have definitely taught me a lesson:) Kim
