The Story of Carlos (Part 2)

If you remember our last instalment of Carlos’ story, you will recall how Carlos was able to gain some confidence from hanging out with Melly and even started speaking when he had refused to before. Melly has a really infectious confidence and independent spirit. However, that strong-willed attitude can sometimes go a little too far.

One day, Melly was just stuck in the grip of a defiant ‘get out of my way’ kind of mood. She was stealing food from her herd mates, kicking them out of her way, and even banging on the corral gate, causing a real ruckus. Try to imagine a 350 pound toddler having tantrums! We tried all sorts of positive interventions, but couldn’t seem to make any progress.

As the illustrious David Eberhardt writes in his blog, “Nature of Home”, mules are “symbols of strength, resilience, and ingenuity. For centuries, they’ve shaped human progress, carrying empires, defying harsh conditions and even advancing modern science.” Apparently Melly takes great pride in her glorious historical legacy, because she would not listen to anything us lowly humans had to say to her. That is, until a certain someone had an idea.

You see, Carlos is very young, but there is a certain peace and serenity about him, in which there is great wisdom. After so many unsuccessful attempts to calm her down, we had become discouraged. That was when Carlos, with his characteristic calmness, suggested something none of us ever would have considered.

One day he asked us if he could play some music for her. He had been doing some research and learned that music can have a soothing effect on animals. It was a very interesting idea. However, we did not have much hope and we prepared him for disappointment.

So Carlos trotted up with his phone, raised it to Melly’s ear, and started to play classical music. We were happy to see Carlos taking some initiative, but we looked on with skepticism. Suddenly, her eyes began to soften. She calmed down completely and continued listening to the music with Carlos until the end of the session, her eyes glowing the whole time. We were astounded and overjoyed!

AI rendering of the scene

Did it last? Yes, it did! We fed all the equines their evening meal shortly after Carlos departed. Instead of kicking her dinner companions out of her way, this time Melly peacefully shared a meal with her herd mates.

We could tell you all about the science and research behind music soothing animals, which Carlos uncovered for us, but what we think is most cool about this story is that it shows how Carlos and Melly learn from one another. Carlos was the shy one who learned how to be more confident from Melly, and Carlos repaid her by being the calm one who knew just the thing to dial her in and sooth her rambunctious nature. It’s beautiful; a real amazing symbiotic relationship!

We were so excited by this development that we actually purchased an outdoor stereo system. We haven’t told Carlos yet, but the next step might be to dance with Melly!