Donkeys and their hybrid offspring are likely one of the most misunderstood animals due to their behavioral differences from their cousin the horse. Donkeys’ natural response to fear, pain or discomfort is to freeze and a horse is to flee. Donkeys evolving from a resource poor environment, the desert may better explain why they freeze versus running away when there’s limited forage and water. The mule and hinny are even more interesting in terms of behavior because they may exhibit behavioral signs of both parents, the donkey and the horse. Mules and donkeys are extremely strong and if there’s little to no trust between the handler, practitioner, or owner routine procedures may prove to be extremely challenging and they will likely use their strength too. Participatory data has shown that owners who work with their mules at an early age develop a trusting and good working relationship so physical examinations or taking temperatures are not challenging. In most cases mules and donkeys respond very well to soft soothing voices, gentle touch and even food rewards. However, the best approach to mule and donkey behavior is slow and steady and proceed when your patient gives you the green light. Start at the head and work your way back when they allow you to. When observing donkeys and mules for discomfort and pain similar to working with them, pay attention to subtle changes in their body language from orbital tightening, ear position, body stance and tail swishing. Both will tell you what they are thinking, how they will react and if they are experiencing discomfort but you have to be willing to pay attention to their body language and recognize small changes as strong indicators of their current behavior.