RIP Archie, inspiration for our knot

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Ghost

climber

A long way from where I started

Jul 24, 2008 - 12:40pm PT

Always tough to lose a four-legged friend. But thanks for sharing the story.

drljefe

climber

Calizona

Jul 24, 2008 - 01:29pm PT

Yeah, thanks for that. I think you could submit it for publication somewhere.

Toker Villain

Big Wall climber

Toquerville, Utah

Topic Author's Reply - Jul 24, 2008 - 03:56pm PT

Right;

Jackass, the Magazine!

Carolyn C

Trad climber

the long, long trailer

Jul 24, 2008 - 05:24pm PT

Nice story Ron. Here's to Archie in mule heaven where there is lots of green grass, plenty of nice jennies to chase, and extra noshes (sp?) all around.

Toker Villain

Big Wall climber

Toquerville, Utah

Topic Author's Reply - Jul 24, 2008 - 10:37pm PT

Hi C,
I seem to recall that your husband Eric KNEW Archie, or was it just Vita after Archie went north?

But of course "jenny" does not mean female mule. It is the reverse-cross hybrid, a donkey mare and horse sire.
The result has less of a "jug" head, not such long ears, and generally smaller and stouter, the ideal pack animal.
I did many multiday trips afoot with just Vita hauling my camp, rope, rack, food, water, beer, and a few feed pellets and some oats.

I didn't make her carry everything though. I'd have a canteen, snacks, and binoculars in my day pack.

climber

A chopper, baby...it's a chopper.

Jul 25, 2008 - 02:43pm PT

That was a touching story, Ron.

Sounds like Archie lived a good long life and was treated quite well for a stock animal, not to mention cared about in a way that most livestock isn't. I found that the best part...that you understood the 90+% positive reinforcement and never needing to hit them.

I grew up around horses and mules there in the MiddleWest, and you're right about a mule's intelligence. It's uncanny how smart they'll show you they are when you give them a little time and love...along with chocolate chip cookies freshly burnt by your grandmother...

Thanks for sharing your pal's adventures with us.