Ok, so what does that mean?? Well, of course I'm going to tell you! haha. I've been busy training mules and catching up from Winterhaven work in December so I just didn't have anything to talk about. Now, however, I have a topic of concern, and let's face it, that is actually what inspires our most passionate blogging!
There are many roads to Rome, meaning, there are many ways to accomplish success. One method isn't necessarily the "only" correct way to a finished product. Now, relating this to mules... Mules are smart and sensitive creatures (horses too ie: Khuster!). When we have them come here, they take some time to transition into our environment and our demands. They take some time to get used to us as handlers. When we finish with them, there is a period of transition for the owner to take over the continued training. This means that when you take your mule from us, you can expect about 3 weeks of them not quite trusting your judgement. After this transition period, providing you make trustworthy choices that warrent your mules trust, your mule will start to show a change in their personality towards you. For example, you may notice they won't stand easily to mount for a week or two, and then it will mysteriously resolve. Or, they may not leave your property easily under saddle and it too will suddenly change. This is due to their transition to YOUR choices. Now, if your choices don't appear trustworthy to your mule, this may take a little longer. Every little success you have with them builds their trust in you.
Now, when you take your mule/horse home after training from ANY trainer, ask the trainer what you should be doing? We suggest a regimen of riding in 60foot circles every day working on bending, flexing, and rapport with your mule. If you go home with your animal and follow this suggestion, you will find your animal will respond quicker to your requests. After this transition period, you can begin to apply your own personal techniques. However, if you skip this transition period, you are only asking for trouble. Maybe you may not want to do things quite the way your trainer may suggest, however, you must transition your animal to another method over time... thus, many roads lead to Rome. It doesn't mean your methods are not good, it just means you should follow the methods taught to your mule until you have the time to add your own techniques in their routine so that the mule can understand them!
That said, it is in your best interest to put your invested training to work for you. Continue the work when you get your animal from any trainer as it ultimately is a relationship between you and your mule that will make them do whatever you want!
Ride with the wind my friends, as it is Spring!!
Julie
