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So, hello! This is the computer mule driver from the South team, and today I offer you a little tour of the world of mule influencers (influencer being a portmanteau term). In our case, this term will group together anyone who talks about mules on the web, near or far. Today's goal: to introduce you to accounts of mule enthusiasts across each continent and fill your social networks with long ears! This list comes from my little personal research and the update of a previous article on the blog. I will forget some important names. Do not hesitate to let me know in the comments so that I can update the article! On this little warning, let's take off for our first stopover: South America. South America: Land of the Saddle Mule For this first stopover of the World Tour, we are in South America, land of the saddle mule. On the program, mainly Brazilian, with a touch of Colombian and a zest of Mexican. It is possible that South America is our first stop by favoritism on my part, being myself an admirer of their Marchadores mules which have a class that does not leave me indifferent. Muladeiros  This is the biggest mule account in South America, with over 300,000 followers! On this account, you will mainly find ads for mules and mules for sale, accompanied by photos that make you dream. There, the mules are intended for work with livestock and are the result of crossing the famous Pega donkey with Mangalarga mares. Their Social Networks instagram facebook Ana Paula Brito  This is Miss Brazil, if I followed the story correctly, she is the one behind the Muladeiros accounts. She organizes and covers a multitude of events in the world of the Brazilian mule! Their Social Networks instagram facebook vini muladeiro Like the two other accounts mentioned above, here is an account that shares ads for mules for sale, interspersed with little moments of life with their mules! Their Social Networks instagram A lomo de mula For our next country, I suggest a little detour to Colombia with the YouTube channel A Lomo de Mula. If I understood correctly, A Lomo de Mula is a Colombian television show that talks exclusively about mules! If you understand Spanish, you will discover a multitude of fascinating information about the small world of mules in South America. Including a report on mules used as surrogate mothers! Their Social Networks youtube David Alonso And to end our little tour of South America, we take a detour to Mexico with David Alonzo. David Alonzo is a trainer who works a lot with mules. Our "muleologist" Muriel Hérion is full of praise for him. Once again, if Spanish is your thing, go for it! Their Social Networks instagram facebook Amérique du Nord : La mule, reine des ranchs To be honest, I'm not an expert on North American horse culture, but I've done a little research on the place of mules in this region. So what do mules do there? Well, they're mostly found in transport activities (the famous "packers"), trail rides, sometimes in cattle sorting, and a discipline specific to this country and their mules "L'extreme Mule Riding" Ready to take off for North America? Let’s go! 🚀 Broncks and Doncks I discovered these happy elves on YouTube with their cattle drive videos. On their site, you will find: hunting videos where mules are used to transport carcasses, cattle drive videos, where the goal is to round up the cows. Authentic and immersive content for lovers of North American ranching! Their Social Networks Chaîne YouTube Instagram Site  officiel MTN BUILT This is my current favorite! This passionate couple has a YouTube channel on which you can find On their YouTube channel, you will find: popular videos on the world of mules, moments of life that will immerse you in the American universe of these fascinating animals. If you want to learn more about North American mules, this is an excellent entry point. Their Social Networks Chaîne YouTube Instagram TS Mule (ou Ty Evans pour les intimes) If I understood correctly, Ty Evans is a real "mule whisperer". His podcast dedicated exclusively to mules is a goldmine. If you understand English, go for it without hesitation! You will learn everything you need to know about this world. Their Social Networks Chaîne YouTube Instagram Podcast et site officiel Queen Valley Mule Ranch With his Texan grandpa look, Steve Edwards hosts a YouTube channel full of practical advice on mules: how to seal them, how to understand them, and much more. On his website you will find a whole bunch of equipment and training courses to buy personally the avaloire melts my eye! Elise mulerider It was when I came across this account that I told myself that we had to spread the good word of influencers specializing in mules. On the program: videos, short photos, all wrapped up in an Instagram account that makes you want to discover the world through two big mule ears. Elise started sharing her daily life on a ranch in Canada. If I understood correctly, it was at this time that she had her first contact with mules. Their Social Networks instagram facebook Paul Garrison Paul Garrison: He is a big name among the Americans who talk about mules on the Internet. I remember my first years surfing and coming across his videos, very interesting, but not understanding anything because I spoke English like a Spanish cow hahaha. But if you understand English well it's worth a look! Their Social Networks facebook youtube Bob Smith Natural Elements Horsemanship More discreet, but very interesting with his original approach, Father Bob is doing us the honor of joining France to lead courses all over France! If you are interested, you can find out about the dates of these courses on this Facebook event! Legend has it that he is a JF Pignon of the mule, and to see if the legend is true, do not hesitate to come and visit one of his courses, as a free auditor or accompanied by your big-eared companion. Their Social Networks Facebook Europe : Passion et traditions muletières The old continent is full of mule enthusiasts, they don't run the streets but I assure you if you look you can find a whole bunch of beautiful things a little everywhere in Europe. Come with me we'll go for a ride Muriel Herion We join our national Muriel Hérion, who brings us the passion of the mule in a magnificent cone of fries (I try to make French humor). But more seriously, Muriel Hérion passionately documents the world of mules. Her social networks are currently dormant, but who knows what will happen? Florence Hurlet (Planet Ster) Yet another Belgian, they are everywhere! This time, Planet Ster has made the mules shine in TREC (magnificent discipline) by joining the national team! Ellen Cochrane We stay in northern Europe with Ellen Cochrane, who shares her daily life with her mule in England. Work and moments of complicity, she highlights the beauty and intelligence of these divine beings. Enrico Maria Scolari Lidia Moya Garcia Here is a new one that I did not know until recently. It comes to us straight from the country of horses, bulls, but also mules: Spain. On the menu, we will find Doma Vaquera on the back of a mule, with a beautiful beast that, I imagine, must come from an Iberian mare and an Andalusian donkey (these are only suppositions!). Their Social Networks facebook   And elsewhere in the world? If you know other profiles or key personalities in the world of mules, let me know by leaving little comments on this post! This will help us update or create a next article. We are looking for people from all over the world, especially in Africa and Asia. If you hear about someone, do not hesitate to let us know! Our world tour continues, and after Europe, we will fly to another fascinating region. Stay tuned for the rest of the adventure! 🐴🌍

We are often asked questions, we mule owners. Sometimes they are politely phrased: "Oh yes, she's nice, but you won't be able to do much with that." Other times, it's less pleasant: "Why bother with that?" And then there are the recurring comments: "So, you're giving up riding?" Or even: "You're going on a trip? Are you going to plow the arena and plant potatoes? " So why was the mule chosen? A mule is much more than a horse, as the Americans like to say. And it's true! More intelligent, more sensitive, more flexible, faster (when necessary, of course!), the mule is an extremely lively and surprising animal Its versatility is no longer in doubt The mule is the agility of the goat and the loyalty of the dog. The intelligence of the mule Olivier Courthiade states: "It is the only hybrid that has two hard drives, that of the horse by the mother and that of the donkey by the father." Scientifically, this is not proven, but in the field, this observation makes perfect sense. A mule can behave like a donkey at one moment, then like a horse the next. And when it mobilizes its "two hard drives", it thinks and reasons in an impressive way. There is no shortage of anecdotes: every mule owner or enthusiast has a story to tell. Books such as Brèves de Mule or La Grande Histoire du Mulet are full of these captivating tales. It is fascinating to come into contact with this animal. It is often said that the mule makes us humble, and it is true. It is common for us to try to impose our solution during an exercise or when faced with a tricky passage outdoors. But gently, "Mulette" shows us, and sometimes demonstrates, that no, this is not the right approach. It's amazing! A relationship of intelligence and respect Interacting with such an intelligent animal requires more respect. The mule, a keen observer, knows that she often has the advantage. Although they are incredibly gentle, they possess a strength that should not be underestimated. And if they use their hooves, it can be for a friendly brush... or to send you to the moon! If she can be tolerant of our clumsiness, injustice, on the other hand, will never be accepted! A justified blow from the stick can be tolerated, but if it is given unfairly, you risk losing your mule's trust. Thinner and more sensitive We know that a horse is naturally fine and sensitive. The mule, despite a sometimes cold appearance, is truly hypersensitive. With them, no pretense: as much as you can sometimes fool a horse, a mule will never let itself be fooled. Be grounded, determined and precise. This is the art of mule-keeping know-how. Mules will teach you a lot: they show infinite patience towards their humans. More flexible Graceful and feline, they move with flexibility and elegance. In the saddle, their comfort is incomparable. This flexibility, combined with their sure footing, allows them to preserve their safety - and often yours - on rough terrain where a horse could encounter difficulties. Dame Julie 25 ans More lively Is it a flaw or a quality? It depends on the moment... To flee or avoid danger, mules are capable of lightning-fast reaction times, without any warning signal. On foot, in hand, it is often their favorite game. We often hear: "She left without warning, I didn't see it coming!" Sometimes, it is a real defense, an instinctive escape. But other times, it is just a game: she will stop a few meters further, taunting you with a look with a mischievous air. You have to experience it at least once to understand it More demanding of interactions and playful Mules love to learn and interact with their human reference. They are always up for new adventures. And if, by chance, what you are proposing does not interest them today, they will find something else to suggest to you. The most important thing for them is to be with you. More faithful Loyal and exclusive, they will do anything to please you... but only for you, we agree! Your mule will be a true love with you, but can turn into terror with another human. There you have it, you will have understood: a mule is like a horse… but better. Yes, there are “mule” horses, but they are not quite mules.

Genghis Khan The first mules date back to the meeting of Mongolian horses and African donkeys In China, mules occupy an interesting place, combining traditional utility and economic role. Here are some important aspects about mules in China: 1.History and Traditional Use Mules have been used in China for centuries, primarily as draft and pack animals, especially in mountainous and rural areas. Their hardiness, endurance, and resistance to harsh climates made them valuable assets for transporting goods. They were especially prized on trade routes, such as the famous Silk Road, where they could traverse rough terrain while carrying heavy loads. 2. Regions with a High Mule Population Rural and mountainous regions, such as Yunnan, Sichuan, and the Tibetan Plateau, still use mules, although their importance has declined with mechanization. In these areas, mules remain important for agriculture and transportation, especially in places where modern vehicles cannot access. 3. Economic and Agricultural Role In China, mules are often crossbred to produce animals that are hardy and suitable for agricultural work. Crossbreeding between local donkeys and horses is done to improve certain characteristics such as strength and endurance. Local markets sometimes include specialised fairs for the mule trade, although demand has declined in the face of motorised alternatives. 4. Modernization and Decline in the Use of Mules With rapid urbanization and agricultural modernization, the use of mules has declined in favor of tractors and other agricultural machinery. However, in remote areas or among nomadic populations, they retain a functional role. 5. Culture and Symbolism Mules do not have a strong symbolic presence in Chinese culture compared to other animals such as the horse or the dragon, but they are often associated with perseverance and quiet strength. In some local traditions, they represent a transitional animal between the old rural world and the new modern world. Toba on his mule: According to legend, a Chinese official and poet nicknamed Toba in Japan (Su Shi in Chinese, 1036-1101), who lived under the Song in the service of the emperors... 6. Ecology and Tourism Some tourist areas in China, such as trekking areas in Yunnan or near sacred mountains, still use mules to transport trekkers' luggage. They also play a role in more environmentally friendly farming practices in communities seeking to avoid over-reliance on machinery. An article on the Figaro 7. Consumption In China, pork dominates consumption, followed by chicken and beef. Mule meat is rarely consumed, as mules are mainly used as working animals for their hardiness and endurance, with no associated culinary tradition. 8. Animal protection In China, the treatment of mules varies by region and usage. Traditionally used for work, they can be well treated or suffer from neglect, especially in poor rural areas. The mule industry' eijao , although focused on donkeys, could indirectly affect them, raising concerns about animal welfare. Awareness is growing, but animal protection laws remain limited for working animals. Their welfare depends mainly on owners and access to adequate resources. In China, mules are rarely used for leisure or as pets, being primarily considered working animals. However, some mules in rural areas may receive loving care. The growing interest in equestrian recreation may include mules, but horses and donkeys remain favored. Mules as companions remain very unusual. Mules chinoises... On the image bank Alamy you can find many photos there Source Michel CARTIER. 1993. «La Marginalisation des an ». Annales de la Société Zoologique de France  69 (2): 151-158. https://sciencepress.mnhn.fr/sites/default/files/articles/pdf/az1993n2a6.pdf .

Everything you've read so far has made you want to discover mules up close? Get close to them in real life, smell their unique scent, feel their special energy? Maybe even ride one of them? Here are three places where you can meet these fascinating animals, in a secure setting and with a respectful approach that highlights their well-being In the north of France L'écrin des mules Hélène Guillaume will welcome you to her establishment in Aisne, with kindness and good humor. Facebook page: L'écrin des mules A peaceful place dedicated to equine and human well-being Education Mules and Horses Teaching of relational riding Walks and discovery of mules Relationship & harmony Themed courses Contacts Muret-et-Crouttes, France, 02210 06 71 44 56 86 lecrindesmules@gmail.com In the south of France Les écuries d'Aloha Coralie will welcome you with kindness and will share her passion for mules and the mountains, in the Hautes Alpes. Facebook page: Les écuries d'Aloha In the Hautes-Alpes in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region Mules between lake and mountain. Want a change of scenery, disconnect from everyday life and reconnect with nature for a walk at the pace of a mule's steps in our magnificent region.... Walk with a pan, climb... Ranging from one hour, one day, or even several days.... The choice of photos is difficult, go to his page!!!! Contacts Neffes, France, 05000 06 62 02 30 99 coralie_cup@hotmail.com La ferme équestre des Neyrons Elodie will welcome you in Vaucluse with her usual kindness and benevolence. Facebook page: La ferme équestre des Neyrons Mules trained to ride, to pack, sometimes to harness. Ride in hand on mules for children. Ride in a carriage, a time around the mules for all audiences. Hike with bivouac with pack mules (accompanied hike, several circuits, difficulty depending on the audience) Contact Malemort-du-Comtat 06 29 41 69 60 elodie-leclercq@live.fr This list of professionals is not exhaustive. It was established with the agreement of professionals who have made themselves known to us and who share the values ​​of the Mule Qui Peut association.

Tribute to Domenico Di Giacomo, master craftsman of the bastion "Jo Mastaro" , as he was called in the Abruzzo dialect, is the story of a craft that is now almost forgotten, but which marked three generations of the Di Giacomo family. Domenico Di Giacomo, a bastier in Sante Marie, made basti, these custom-made packs for mules and donkeys. His exceptional know-how crossed borders, with his creations used in France, Switzerland, Austria, and several regions of Italy, not thanks to a commercial strategy, but thanks to the diaspora of mule drivers from Cappadocia and neighboring villages. A craftsmanship of excellence Domenico’s basti were works of art, handmade with carefully selected materials: Arcioni (pommels) in naturally curved wood, carefully selected and worked. Straw, canvas and animal hair, meticulously cleaned by hand using an ingenious roller machine, which has now disappeared. Capperoni, large tubes recovered and softened in the sun or near a heat source. And even the nails, however simple, were given special attention. Every detail counted to ensure the comfort of the animal and the durability of the product. The measurements of the mules or donkeys were taken on site or sent by courier from the distant mule drivers. The basti made by Domenico were renowned for their legendary solidity, sometimes described as “indestructible”. Living memories Today, it is not uncommon to find one of his pack saddles as a souvenir: many are still used by the last muleteers, a testament to their quality. In Cappadocia and Sante Marie, bronze statues honor this lost craft, with the image of the mule loaded with its basto, recalling a bygone era. Domenico, nicknamed "Jo Mastaro", was a man of few words, but his work and passion spoke for him. He transmitted values ​​of patience, effort and love of the profession, values ​​that we hope to perpetuate to inspire future generations. A legacy to pass on In tribute to this man and his work, we share his story to revive the memories of this unique profession and honor the memory of the muleteers and craftsmen who built a bridge between the past and the present. Through Domenico's packsaddles, it is not only mules that have been equipped, but also an era that continues to live. A big thank you to those who, like him, leave behind traces of humanity and know-how, in a world where everything seems to move so quickly. A huge thank you to the Di Giacomo family for this poignant testimony, and to Domenico for having captured the soul of a profession and an era.

The United States, the land of mules In North America, mules occupy a special place: they are adored, celebrated, and showcased like nowhere else. Americans have an unmatched know-how in terms of mounted mules, a true reference for the rest of the world. Among the emblematic events, Missouri Mule Makeover  . This ultra-popular event attracts enthusiasts from all walks of life. It is in this context that we met  Bob Smith , founder of   Natural Elements Horsemanship . . Bob is a character that you don’t forget. His big beard, his natural calm and his confidence immediately inspire confidence. But what makes him truly unique is his approach. Respect, kindness, firmness without violence: with Bob, everything is done gently, in a spirit of connection and mutual understanding. He embodies an educational philosophy that contrasts with traditional methods, placing the well-being of the animal at the heart of each interaction. Like the other participants, Bob had 5 months to work with a young mule that was new to its interactions with humans. Unfortunately, his first mule was injured in the pasture, forcing him to look for a new mount to continue the adventure. This is how Trooper, a pretty and gentle Appaloosa mule, arrived as reinforcement. This one-month setback put Bob behind the other competitors, but he didn’t give up. True to his principles, he decided to play the game, not to win, but to participate fully and offer the best to his companion. Despite the challenges, Bob finished third with a calm and composed mule, who even allowed himself to play in the arena in front of hundreds of captivated spectators. A true demonstration of confidence and serenity, in perfect harmony with Bob's respectful approach. Epreuve freestyle au MMMO Bob immediately won us over: his approach, his experience and his personality created a real spark. The feeling was there, so we asked him the big question: "Would you be willing to come to France to share your know-how?" It must be said that Bob, with more than 20 years of experience with mules, is a real goldmine. And if we count his work with horses, it goes back to when he was 9 years old... Suffice to say that he knows his subject! Good news: he accepted! We are therefore delighted to announce that we are organizing his visit to France for the end of August 2025. A unique opportunity to discover his method and benefit from his valuable advice. And it will be the first visit to France of an American muleteer! So here we are organizing a tour for him in France, for sure, 2 days on August 28 and 29, 2025 at the final of the ChaLenge Muletier !!!! If you have   Facebook you will find all the necessary information there. Otherwise contact us at mulequipeut@gmail.com

And in North Africa Mules: pillars of rural and mountain life in Morocco Au Maroc, notamment dans les régions rurales et montagneuses, les mules jouent un rôle essentiel depuis des siècles. Leur robustesse, leur endurance et leur capacité à naviguer sur des terrains escarpés, comme ceux des montagnes de l'Atlas, en font des alliées indispensables pour les habitants. Ce sont généralement des hybridations de juments barbes ou arabes The multiple uses of mules in Morocco: 1. Transport of goods In areas where roads are impassable for vehicles, mules are the preferred means of transport. They carry foodstuffs, building materials, and even water, crossing paths inaccessible to machines. 2. Farm work: Mules actively participate in field work, whether it is plowing, transporting crops or moving equipment necessary for farming. 3. Tourism: In regions such as the Atlas, Chefchaouen or the Dadès Gorges, mules are also rented to tourists for nature hikes, allowing access to otherwise inaccessible places. 4. Society and Culture: In many rural communities, owning a mule is a sign of prosperity. They are seen as a status symbol and a vital tool for families. Challenges to be met: Despite their importance, mules can sometimes be overworked or mistreated, especially in tourist areas or where care practices are not always adequate. Fortunately, local and international NGOs are working to raise awareness of the specific needs of these animals and improve their living conditions. Jarjeer is working in this direction, links at the end of the page An economic pillar: Mules represent an important economic value in the animal trade in Morocco. Their rarity, as sterile hybrids between the donkey and the mare, makes them valuable to rural families. They are particularly appreciated in the mountains, where they are often better cared for than in urban areas. Ville vs montagne : In the city, the horses work hard, sometimes to the point of exhaustion, and can be seen at night, tied to carts with little water and food. However, in the mountains, where the inhabitants really depend on their animals, they provide them with more attentive care. Mules, although less known than the Arabian horses famous for the Tbourida, are here recognized for their strength and endurance. Practices surrounding equine care in Morocco: diverse realities In Morocco, equine care methods vary widely depending on the region and the resources available. In many cases, farriers are self-taught, learning on the job and adapting their practices according to their knowledge. This reflects a reality: everyone does what they can with the resources they have. The same is true for education Foals, from a very young age, are often exposed to daily life alongside their mothers, even in the middle of road traffic. This lifestyle is sometimes the only way for them to learn to adapt to their environment. In general, those who truly depend on their animals do their best to care for them, even with limited means. However, it must be acknowledged that veterinarians are rare in some areas, and for poor families, it is often impossible to afford a consultation. In these cases, they must turn to more accessible solutions. In cities, the situation is different. The living conditions of equines can be more difficult, with animals often working long hours and sometimes left to their own devices at night, tied to carts, with only a little water and food, or free-ranging, feeding on scraps found in garbage cans The Jarjeer shelter works tirelessly to rescue animals from truly abominable situations, misery, climate and profit are the cause Thanks to Nathalie Leplang, living on site, for her help in writing this post

Christmas in Mulardie!!!! Give the gift of inspiration that lasts all year round: a valued and timeless gift. 𝐏𝐫é𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐳 𝐯𝐨𝐬 𝐜𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐚𝐮 𝐩𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐍𝐨ë𝐥 𝐝è𝐬 𝐦𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐚𝐧𝐭 ! As the end of October approaches, it's time to think about your Christmas gifts, whether to give as a gift or to treat yourself Discover our must-have bestsellers: The calendar : the books : Our two best sellers "𝐁𝐫𝐯𝐞𝐬 𝐝𝐞 𝐦𝐮𝐥𝐞s" and "𝐋𝐚 𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐞 𝐇𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐢𝐫𝐞 𝐝𝐮 𝐦𝐮𝐥𝐞𝐭". Even those uninitiated to the world of mules will enjoy exploring this fascinating universe. You can get them now on our shop Helloasso . Big plus, it helps us financially to continue our actions For mule enthusiasts, riders from all walks of life and hikers, the second travel diary of Les Globe-Crotters has been released 𝐋𝐞 𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐥 𝐞𝐪𝐮𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐞 𝐞𝐧 𝐯𝐨𝐲𝐚𝐠𝐞 also available on Helloasso . Thank you for your support

A short socio-philosophical reflection which only commits the author Having a mule, working with one, requires another temporality. Not that it is necessarily slow, soft or without energy. We have fast and athletic sports mules, so it is not a lack of drive. The genes of father donkey are present, which will bring to some subjects a good dose of phlegm and this "annoying" capacity for reflection. Contact with a mule requires getting into its rhythm. I want to say, to a time gone by, the time of the seasons, before engines, television, radios with a jerky rhythm, smartphones and consumerist compulsion. Even if it is neither ethical nor respectful to take just any horse, chosen for its origins or abilities, it will agree to submit to the reins, to contemporary coercive methods, so that the rider wins all the prizes with frenzy: gains, notoriety, glory and consumption of horse. Yes, it will last from 2 to 6 years, then we will go buy another one from the breeder who is right. The horse can submit to this contemporary frenzy: consumption, gains, glory and beauty... Even if this beautiful animal deserves respect and progress in its education and work, the selection of breeders has made it possible to have animals that are more and more efficient, and tolerant of clumsiness and abuse on the part of riders. The mule, no. However, it is much more capable than a horse, although often less aesthetic, and even then... First of all, the mule chooses you. It gets that from its dad. When I see ads like "Horse-Moped": "Looking for a beautiful, kind and well-educated mule", it speaks to me. Not to say that it triggers in me an emotion that has not yet been recognized, a hybrid between sadness and laughter. No, you don't buy a mule, you go and meet it, you talk, and only then do you give a check to the breeder or owner to reimburse them for their expenses and time spent. Besides, at the hourly rate, if you calculate correctly, it's really not much... Then, you talk for a long time, quite a long time, even a very long time, with it, to prove yourself as a guardian and referent. Don't be fooled, the animal is fine and an expert in human ethology. She doesn't need you to survive, just to trust you to follow you... and more if there's a connection. Once the relationship is established, she will classify you in a box: treat dispenser, ass scratcher or human who asks and asserts himself. And so, here we come: it's not the mule who will be nice, polite and all that jazz, but the human opposite. Yes, yes, we agree, this is also valid for horses, but with the mule, the whip will not make an impression. She will respond immediately with agility to tell you that she also knows how to hit and just! If you move on to the work stage, it will take a little time for her to agree to do what you suggest, sometimes with a few heated discussions. This is where the concepts of "horsemanship" are interesting: make her want to. Finally, you will end up reaching the Grail, after several fights, discussions, adjustments and struggles. But there, you will not regret anything. You will understand that a mule is earned and not bought in the aisles of the ready-made store: "Think less to consume more." And one day, after a difficulty outdoors, during an obstacle course, during a dressage test, or simply during a walk in hand, you will say to yourself: "Oh yeah, really!" She will have taught you to take your time, to stay in your bubble, so well anchored in the present. You will take your time with Mumule, this guide outside of time, who takes the time to put her hooves in the right place, at the right time.

Mules are sterile hybrids that result from the crossbreeding of a male donkey (called a burro) and a female horse. This combination is done to produce an animal that inherits specific traits from both species, such as the hardiness and patience of the donkey, combined with the strength and endurance of the horse. However, due to their hybrid nature, the vast majority of mules are sterile, meaning they cannot reproduce. Are mules sterile? The sterility of mules is due to a chromosomal compatibility problem. Here are some details: 1. Number of chromosomes: - Horses have 64 chromosomes. - Donkeys have 62 chromosomes. - Mules, as hybrids, end up with an odd number of chromosomes, namely 63 chromosomes. This odd number of chromosomes makes it difficult to produce viable sex cells (eggs or sperm), because meiosis (the process of cell division for reproduction) cannot take place normally. This leads to sterility. 2. Difference between mules and hinnies: - Mules are the result of crossing a male donkey (burro) and a mare. - Hinnies, on the other hand, are the offspring of a stallion (male horse) and a she-ass (female donkey). They are also sterile for similar reasons. The sexuality of mules Although mules are sterile, they are not asexual. Mules and mules can have normal sexual behaviors like horses or donkeys, and they go through the same stages of sexual maturity. It is not uncommon to see these animals mate with each other or with horses of the opposite sex. However, given their sterility, these behaviors do not lead to reproduction. The mule has heat cycles like mares, which go more or less unnoticed, on the other hand the mule retains a passionate libido and often without regard for his companions ... It is strongly recommended to castrate them because they have a dominant and violent character, especially with other animals. The earlier they are castrated, the faster they forget this mode of operation Rare cases of fertility There are extremely rare cases of female mules (but not males) that have been able to reproduce. In exceptional situations, a few female mules have given birth to a foal. However, these cases are very rare and represent an anomaly rather than a biological norm. The rate varies from one author to another...from one mule per century to 0.005% According to a study by Meyer (2009). the mule would have spermatozoa in the semen, but of irregular shape and immobile. On 20 mules, the histological examination of the testes showed few spermatogonia and spermatocytes. In conclusion - Mules are almost always sterile because of their chromosomal composition. - They can have normal sexual behaviors, but this does not lead to reproduction. - In very rare cases, a female mule can conceive, but this remains a biological exception. The surrogate mother mule Embryo transfer in mules, although rare, is theoretically possible. This technique, commonly used in horses, involves implanting an embryo from a mare into the uterus of a surrogate mother. Although mules are sterile and cannot produce viable eggs, their reproductive tracts are functioning and can, in theory, support a pregnancy. Mules, combining the qualities of horses and donkeys, could be considered as carriers for valuable horse or donkey embryos. However, this method, complex and expensive, remains little practiced despite positive results in some experimental cases.

This year, our event is evolving with a more personalized and "Frenchified" concept. The term "ChaLenge", with only one L, comes from old French and means "challenge". It is a nod to our desire to modernize while remaining anchored in tradition. The big news: the Challenge is open to everyone! Whether you are an owner, a professional wishing to embark on the mule adventure, having your own mule or a mule entrusted to work, or a behaviorist working with a mule in rehabilitation, you are welcome! Two conditions to participate: 1. The mule must be young or unbroken. 2. Or, it must be a rescue mule, faithful to our commitment to help mules in difficulty. When? The ChaLenge final will take place on August 30 and 31, 2025. Where? This year, Anne and Patrick Van Aubel are doing us the honor of hosting the event at the Vallée aux cerfs, in Vienne. We want to move the ChaLenge each year to showcase mules throughout France. How to participate? Volunteer coaches and volunteers can contact us by filling out a short form accompanied by a short presentation video. We will select a maximum of 15 participants. Once selected, you embark on the adventure! Like last year, the public will be able to follow the evolution of your work via videos published on our Facebook page The ChaLenge lasts for a period of about 7 months, which can be longer or shorter depending on the mule. For example, for a rescue mule, it may be necessary to take more time to help it adapt to its new environment. The Muletier Challenge trials 1. Mule Trail: a unique discipline that mixes ranch trail and mountain trail, highlighting the relationship between the mule and its trainer, as well as the technique and work done. 2. Freestyle: let your imagination run wild! 3. Freedom: a test where the mule evolves in complete freedom. All disciplines related to mule work are accepted: packsaddles, animal traction, horse riding (all horizons) and harnessing. Whether mounted or on foot, you can participate. A benevolent jury will help participants to progress, by providing them with feedback to improve after the events, we are in Mulardie! Competition for seasoned mules: On Sunday afternoon, a competition will be offered to experienced mules. For any request for additional information or to obtain the complete rules, do not hesitate to contact us. Finally, last year's coaching team will join the "office" this year, a sort of council of wise men, to support you and help you in case of difficulty. "A huge thank you to the JNR Ranch and the first team of trainers who, last year, took up the challenge brilliantly and allowed this great adventure to continue. Without them, we would not be where we are today."

Nikita sta cercando il suo umano per la vita ONC Born on January 1, 2011 Height 1.20 m 13 years old She was born in Pas de Calais, arrived at Muriel's around 2015 She came from a shelter that thought she was a donkey... Nikita is therefore adopted by an individual as a donkey, the individual does not cope because Nikita, dominant, attacks the ponies, this person calls on a "Cowboy" who subdues her by tying her to a tree, Nikita hurts herself and then becomes furious, unapproachable Arriving at Muriel's, furious, mad with rage she throws herself into the walls, bangs her head against the walls of the box, so violently that she bleeds. From there, the choice is made to work in freedom. Muriel works her with a 3 m long bamboo, to approach contact. It worked well after 9 weeks, Nikita gave her feet, let herself be touched by the hand all over her body. Some French people came to buy her for harnessing, put her in harness in a week... Muriel had warned her that Nikita was tame but not educated, these "mule connoisseurs" did not win against Nikita, and she returned to Muriel where the approach work had to be redone, then put out to pasture for mental cleaning. Nikita was perfect in harnessing, but tried to violently attack humans when they entered the box From there she joined the RMMO with Nadja who does an extraordinary job Nikita is particularly intelligent, but with a heart as big as that, her relationship with humans will be exclusive The trainer's word: "Nadja calls her "Stormy of mules", capable of the best in expert hands, a great challenge with a human who will have time to give her, she does not tolerate boredom well. Her future human will be an adult, with good knowledge of equines" Determined and smart as a monkey, she will excel in all disciplines Equifeel, Mountain trail fingers in the nose, pack saddle, which she will proudly wear for her human, to the ends of the earth Nikita knows harnessing, but must settle down before resuming She lives willingly with ponies or donkeys, but has a preference for old ponies that reassure and calm her The option of a pet mule but with frequent interaction with its human is possible You can follow Nikita's progress with Nadja on our YouTube channel She is currently being fostered by the Mini family at JNR Ranch in the Dordogne, where you can meet her For any information contact us: mulesquipeut@gmail.com