Hi there, I'm looking for a friendly person who knows about the capabilities of donkeys/mules and horses for long-term, round-the-clock travel.
(I already do this, but with a donkey that's far from indestructible)
I struggle to assess the potential of some equines, so I'd like someone at least somewhat competent in this area whom I can contact from time to time to share photos of animals I'm considering buying.
I'm not in France, I don't plan to return, and I often come across charlatans who'd sell their animals to anyone for a few good bills...
But that's not my case—I'm primarily looking for a female donkey or a mule (my sweetheart isn’t a big fan of horses), and as a last resort, a mare strong and enduring enough to carry me in the mountains, meaning a constant load of about 80kg:
- Me: 60/65kg
- Saddle: 2/4kg
- 8/10L of water
- A rope: 800g
Based on what I've read online and advice from people, I understand the load should represent a maximum of 15/20% of the animal's weight or at least 1.40m at the withers? Mules would be ideal for me, but they sell out VERY quickly, so I never get a chance to find one...
(I always leave a safety margin with the equines I meet to ensure their spine doesn’t get damaged over time)
Anyway, advice won’t be much help because I don’t want to make this decision ALONE when buying this female, to ensure I choose a relatively indestructible creature.
I’ve been visiting long and short ears for a year now, but I still haven’t found the right fit out of concern for her, which is why someone who stays in my contacts to help me make the final decision would be more than welcome :)
Thanks for your attention, hope to hear from you soon!
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