Page 19 - AEF-AlbertaBits_Winter-2025

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relationship with them, you have to train them in a
kind way,” she says, adding that they respond well to
traditional vaquero-style horse training.
While each mule is unique, varying in the qualities
it gets from a jack and mare, Perry observes certain
traits that make them particularly compelling
partners. “If they’re socialized really well when they’re
young, they’re just so good with people,” she says.
And in Perry’s experience, mules also have a way
of keeping you humble. “Mules assassinate your ego,”
she says. “After having one embarrass me in public
enough, the ego learns to take a back seat. Mules
teach humility by their very nature.”
Practical considerations also make mules
appealing. Many are barefoot, hardy animals that
require less maintenance than some horses. “I like
just being able to go barefoot and not have any
problems,” Perry says. Another thing she’s noticed:
mules aren’t as bothered by botflies as horses. They
do, however, enjoy rolling in the mud.
One drawback is their build. Mules typically
have straighter backs, meaning they might need
specialized equipment, such as mule-specific saddles
and bridles. “Sometimes you can’t just buy what you
want out of the tack store for them because it doesn’t
fit,” Perry says.
If you want a good relationship
with them, you have to train
them in a kind way.”
— Carla Perry
Beyond their practical abilities, mules have
enriched Perry’s life on a personal level.
“Something about having the mule made me
a better horseman too — and actually helped me
with some of my human relationships,” she says.
Her bond with Valour required understanding and
communication, and those lessons carried over into
daily life in unexpected ways. “There’s something
about being with mules that just is good for my soul,”
she says.
Perry’s affection for mules stems from more than
their work ethic or adaptability. It’s their intelligence,
companionship and rich personalities that keep
her coming back. For Perry, life on the land simply
wouldn’t be the same without them. For those willing
to invest the time to understand them, mules offer
not just a ride or a helper around the farm — but a
truly rewarding relationship.
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