Columbia Mule Day is like many events 'mule people' attend, it is expensive.  Most people with teams, stalls, camp sites, etc spent on a low average of $1000 to attend this year.  That does not cover mule feed, farrier, fuel, food and spending money.  These owners are out $1000+ to attend, spend a week getting everything ready to roll, spend another 3 days upon arriving home to clean up everything.  

If you have not noticed, the large mules are fading from mule day and other events.  

Dixie Longears is an avid sponsor / promotor of the draft mule.  We donate miles, time, photos, ads, banners and endless hours sharing information and talking with the public.  

The friends who have become close family is endless.  We have acquired close friends in probably half the states in the US.  Friends that are called upon when in need and friends we respond to when they are in need.

I am proud of the mule people in general -- yeah, there are a few of you I disown (LOL) -- 99% of mule people have a giving heart, a good story to share and will stop and help fix a problem without even being asked.  

We truly appreciate the visitors to the pens at Columbia, the fans in the stands, the people on the parade route that let us know they like the team we are driving.  

Another way to show respect of these large animals is to give the owners room to move them around.  Don't assume you can be in their space just because the owner is.  Watch your children.  If a team is being moved from one place to another, don't dodge in front of them or scream.  Don't assume they all are friendly, because they are not. 

Each year a few mules drop out of Columbia.  Some due to the expense, some due to the lack of respect and appreciation.

Afterall, would you pay $1000+ to be somewhere you are not respected or appreciated.  

Kindness and common sense goes a long way .... especially in the animal world.