Fred
Type: Mule John, probably Arab blood
Born: 1994 in Idaho
Height: 14 hands
Weight: 900 lbs.
Color: Red Sorrel
Position: Lead Packer
There is a hierarchy in a mixed equine herd. Horses are boss, then mules then donkeys. As the only mule we use to pack, Fred naturally has to be first in the string. He will go anywhere you ask him to, through deep stream crossings, up stairs etc., and pull the donkeys with him.
Freddy came to us from a horse and mule broker based in Idaho. He was trailered down with many others but was one of three animals purchased by the Big Santa Anita Historical Society to help cabin owners get material packed in during the pack station's transition from Kim Kelley to the Burgesses. He is the only one still with us.
The only problem with Fred, which is potentially a dangerous one, is that he is a little jumpy around mountain bikes and strange dogs. He is much calmer than when we first received him and he is now packing items that used to terrify him; for instance, he brought the new BBQ-style fire rings into one of the campgrounds. Fred may be ready to start packing lumber soon! Riding him is out of the question now and I would be surprised if he ever relaxed enough to ride him with confidence.