After talking about this for several weeks, Ellsworth and I have reached an agreement. Our goal is for Ellsworth to be my trusty steed before summer’s end. I’ve been doing my research and I think we can do it.
A lot of my reading has been with The Donkey Companion, written by Sue Weaver. Sue says that, “Because they’re intelligent and affectionate, and they aim to please, everyday pleasure-riding donkeys are incredibly easy to train. They need not be sent to a trainer; owners can do the work themselves.”
Furthermore, (I find this fascinating) “They’re reliable; donkeys don’t put themselves or their riders in harm’s way. They rarely spook, they don’t bolt, they’re surefooted, and they won’t venture into danger of any kind. These traits make them superlative mounts for children, the physically challenged, and nervous adult riders of all kinds.”
One of my most daunting tasks will be navigating the world of tack and figuring out what types of riding gear fit donkeys. The first thing on our list is a training surcingle.
For the next couple of weeks, we’ll be working on having Ellsworth lead at my side, back up when I ask him to, and stand patiently when he’s tied. I just know he’s going to do great.
April 13, 2010 at 4:33 am
I learned something new today … I did not know that about donkeys. I mean I knew they were intelligent, affectionate and aimed to please, but the part about looking out for their riders. I look forward to future updates.
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April 13, 2010 at 5:20 am
His body language does not say he’s as excited about this as you are.
DI
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April 13, 2010 at 7:05 am
Di,
That might have a little something to do with the fact that sweet Bernard was braying bloody murder back in the corral. One adjustment in this is getting Bernard and Ellsworth accustomed to being separated for short periods of time. They really are inseparable! 🙂
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April 13, 2010 at 5:45 am
This will be a fun journey to watch unfold. Good luck to you both, and hope to see you in the saddle soon!
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April 13, 2010 at 6:57 am
I’ll bring up my spare saddle and headstall this weekend to see if it will fit him. I’ve been meaning to put it on George to see if it will be even close to the right size. If it is…well I guess I’d better start doing a little research myself.
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April 13, 2010 at 7:02 am
Carson,
That’ll be perfect timing. We all can’t wait to see you. And how totally cool would it be to be out on a trail ride together someday with George and Ellsworth? 🙂
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April 13, 2010 at 7:10 am
oohhh – I’m so excited! This will be so much fun to watch yall’s progress. Good luck to you!
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April 13, 2010 at 7:21 am
I just keep marveling at how much life has changed for Ellsworth. I think he’d be fine with being ridden. Life is so good for him right now.
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April 13, 2010 at 9:02 am
You’re going to be the envy of riders within miles of your place. I have no doubt he will be a splendid mount worthy of royal colours.
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April 13, 2010 at 9:03 am
Woo hoo!!!! This is going to be such a wonderful journey!
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April 13, 2010 at 9:08 am
Wow, wow, wow! Exciting news this is! I have no doubt that you two will make a wonderful team!
I took Chester for a walk the other day (he used to love those) and Beau got so upset that Chester pretty much dragged me back to the barn. We’ve certainly got our work cut out for us. 🙂
Really looking forward to hearing about your methods and your progress!
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April 13, 2010 at 9:12 am
I read your comment about Ellsworth and Bernard’s separation anxieties. Yes, it’s an awful thing! My girls cannot stand to be apart for a split second!
I know you and Ellsworth will do great! I have the Donkey Companion book (awesome). And, case in point about donkeys (or mules) looking out for their riders: The Grand Canyon tour mules – they haven’t lost a rider yet! Best wishes to you and Ellsworth 🙂 -Tammy
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April 13, 2010 at 9:13 am
We have one riding donkey, although we don’t ride her. When my farrier brings his son out, his son rides her.
Cookie is ridden bareback with just a halter and lead rope. Never tried a bridle or saddle on her.
There is a saying I go by when it comes to donkeys. Since they are so incredibly smart, if any of the donkeys runs in the opposite direction of something they deem dangerous, you can bet I’m following them!
Looking forward to watching your progress!
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April 13, 2010 at 9:16 am
Poor Bernard!!!!
Is there a reason he is not included?
gramps
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April 13, 2010 at 9:20 am
gramps,
Bernard will be continuing his quest for “driving” excellence. That’s another story for a day in the not too distant future. Not to worry, Bernard is not being left out and will have a job that he can be proud of too. 🙂
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April 13, 2010 at 9:48 am
One additional point I meant to bring up… Bernard’s young age is why we want to hold off on having him carry any weight – including a cart – until he reaches physical maturity, which is still three to four years away according to the experts. We don’t want him to develop health problems later in life because we burdened him at too young an age. In the meantime, we’ll continue “ground driving” practice until it is safe for him. We’ll try to get some pictures in an upcoming post for you. 🙂
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April 13, 2010 at 6:09 pm
Looking forward to the next chapter!
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April 16, 2010 at 2:27 pm
Oh my I am so anxious for more on your journey, it looks to me that he is thinking all about what you are saying to him…yea, the donkey separation is not good! Good Luck!!
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