Horse lovers may say their steeds are superior, but Meredith Hodges begs to differ. In this Colorado ranch woman's expert opinion, mules definitely rule.
"Mules -- a cross between a mare and a male donkey -- are smart, hardy and versatile animals that can do anything a horse can and then some," Meredith shares from her spread in Loveland. "You won't find a better friend."
Meredith's parents inspired her passion for animals. Her father, cartoonist Charles M. Schulz, was obviously drawn to beagles. And her mother owned a ranch where Meredith caught an incurable case of mule fever.
"Thirty years ago, I began training young mules for my mother. In no time, I was hooked," she says. "Since then, I've bred and trained mules and donkeys on my Lucky Three Ranch."
"At present, my focus is on educating other mule owners on how to understand, care for and train their animals," Meredith notes. "Along with how-to books, I've produced videos and TV shows that illustrate the training process step-by-step."
Common sense and a desire for self-preservation are often mistaken for a stubborn streak, Meredith teaches.
"Force a mule to do something he doesn't want to do, and you'll get 1,000 pounds of resistance. But treat him with kindness and respect, and he'll give his all for you," she relates.
To prove it, Meredith has ridden her own 18 mules in a variety of English and Western events, ranging from jumping and dressage to driving competitions. In addition, her herd has appeared in the Tournament of Roses parade.
A judge for the American Donkey & Mule Society, Meredith is raring to promote the animals' virtues. "Mules are not as expensive to raise as horses since they're generally healthier and eat less. Their gait is smoother, too, and they have a tremendous sense of humor," she says.
"In honor of my father, I've just produced a children's book and an animated cartoon starring a talking mule named 'Jasper'. besides introducing kids to mules and donkeys in an entertaining way, it has important life lessons to teach.
"'Do unto others as you would have them do unto you' is a main theme of the story," she explains. "Give love and consideration, and that's what you'll receive back -- whether you're dealing with mules or people."