Show-Me State Times

As Boone and George, two hefty mules weighing 1,500 pounds each, make their way around the parking lot of the College of Veterinary Medicine, their horseshoes create a distinct sound on the concrete. These mules are part of an annual tradition at the University of Missouri where they escort first-year veterinary students to class on their first day.

The Missouri mule team has been a notable presence at the university since 1984. As National Mule Day approaches on October 26, several interesting facts about these equine ambassadors and their student caretakers have been highlighted.

Mizzou maintains three mule teams. The current main team consists of Boone and George, while Bess and Rose are in training. Retired mules Tim and Terry spent 27 years pulling wagons before retiring in 2020. The care for these animals is part of Mizzou's educational approach known as the Missouri Method, which emphasizes hands-on learning experiences such as those provided by the Mule Club.

These mules require significant care, including feeding up to 35 pounds of hay daily and consuming between five to 20 gallons of water depending on weather conditions. Grooming them takes considerable time each day to ensure they remain healthy and well-maintained.

The mules serve as goodwill ambassadors for Mizzou's College of Veterinary Medicine, participating in public events like Alumni Weekend and Homecoming Parades. They are accustomed to attention and enjoy interacting with people through nose rubs or posing for photos.

To be part of Mizzou's mule team, a mule must be a cross between a draft horse and a mammoth donkey—a combination known as a Missouri Mule—and possess specific physical traits and personality characteristics suitable for interaction with traffic, new environments, people, and pets.

Mules hold historical significance in Missouri; they were bred by farmers in the 1800s to assist pioneers during westward expansion after the Louisiana Purchase due to their strength and work ethic. Additionally, an iconic representation of a mule can be found within Mizzou's logo between the letters 'M' and 'U'.