Customer Reviews

Training Mules and Donkeys : A Logical Approach to Longears

5 star:		(8)
4 star:		(4)
3 star:		(2)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

This is one good training book. Lots of good information because mules are different from horses. I've used this book over and over especially good for people new to mule ownership or those who are breeding mules from their favorite mares. I wish I had read it before my mule was born it might have saved me from making some mistakes. Easy to read and full of good training tips.

Mules are not horses, in spite of their similar appearance. Training methods used on horses are often not effective on mules. For those equestrians who prefer mules or donkeys as their mounts, this is a teriffic book to help them improve their communication with their animals. Meredith Hodges' credibility comes from her success in training and breeding performance mules and donkeys. She is also a regular contributor of training articles to various mule and donkey publications. Interested equestrians can find an almost unlimited supply of books on riding and training horses, but there is a real shortage of books on the riding and training of mules. Prior to the publication of this book, Paul and Betsy Hutchins books on mules and donkeys were probably the best books available to readers looking for expert advice on working with their long-eared equines. Although the Hutchins' books are still superb, it is great to have another viewpoint to read on the subject of mules and donkeys. Videos and training cards have recently been published to accompany the book. I have not seen these personally, but have heard that they are excellent. Mule and donkey lovers definitely need to own this one!

Received a signed copy (nice surprise!) of the book which I found to be well written, illustrated and quite complete, information-wise. The only comment I can make is that I thought that there would be more specific information on donkey training than there currently is. While the author's Little Jack Horner tends to prove that whatever a mule can do, so can a donkey, I wonder whether the training described for mules in this book is also applicable as is to donkeys.

But otherwise, really like the book and am happy I purchased it. Will give it a try on my donkey and see where I get to.

I ordered the book....then read the reviews and wanted to cancel....I received it and am I glad....it is the greatest thing going for training donkeys! I own 2...I know.....those who did not like the book simply don't understand longears. And an added bonus was I got a signed by the author copy....thanks Meredith...Judy George......ADAMS member since 1990

I found the book very disappointing. I have donkeys and given the books title assumed equal time would be given to donkeys and mules. Instead only one of 31 chapters dealt with donkeys and as the author pointed out there are major differences between the two. Since I don't have mules, I can't comment on those chapters. I did enjoy the pictures.

Meredith Hodges is a rare human being. A woman with amazing patience and love for her Donkeys and Mules. A deep understanding of their psychology and physical needs enables her to turn these amazingly intelligent, misunderstood and often ignored animals into equestrian eventer's, able to grace any Gymkhana or Show jumping event. She has turned dreams into reality then generously shared the wealth of her knowledge with us in a way that anyone can understand and follow. This is a classic handbook for any person wishing to raise and bring on their mules and donkeys for competition. The step by step photos are easy to follow and copy! Sometimes the text may assumes more than the readers is capable of understanding. But over reading helps solve this problem, I have not yet found another book like it for sound academic content. I prize my signed copy. All students and practicing vets should own this book!

As a new mule owner I wanted to be sure I started out on the right foot. Meredith Hodges book "Training Mules and Donkeys - A Logical Approach to Longears" was highly recommended so it was the first book I purchased.

The content is enjoyable, easy to understand and right to the point. There isn't a plethora of "fluff" rather a straight forward approach to the basics. Anyone who has a mule or donkey understands that these are not horses...they are far different. While the book does indeed use well established horse training methods, the actual differences are in the well thought out execution.

This book isn't meant to be a sensational media hyped method like Parelli, it is meant to make you think, to understand. But it isn't a mule psychology text either. It is exactly what the title states...A logical approach to longears.

I have a 1 year old mule colt and was looking for some beginner guidance on training - this book is just right for a beginner - well written, not too much jargon, plenty of photos.

This book provides great insight into how donkeys and mules are different from horses in how they think, react, and respond to training methods. A good book for someone who has horses and now has donkeys and/or mules. The book has good illustrations and clear, readable suggestions.

Very pleased with book and speed of delivery.
Book is very easy reading and informational as well.
Gives you a little insight as to a mules logic and mode of thought, guess I'll know soon enough!!!!