I did some work with my friends donkeys, and I could not believe how patient and calm they were in strange situations, with a stranger handling them, with bizarre contraptions (read: harness) being buckled all over them. Donks, at least the ones I've been around, are fairly unflappable and endearing little longears.
The key is to get a WELL TRAINED donkey or mule for your first longears buddy. I researched mules for three years, spoke with tons of mule folks, watched every video I could, and no way was I prepared for my first mule! Of course, I didn't get the well seasoned trail mount I had been dreaming of...I opened my heart to an untrained, already at 7 months old abused, unwanted little mule colt. Would I trade him for all the horses in China? No way, no how. In fact, I don't ever want another horse again, ever. There is just something about a mule that will blow you away every damn day. Even the challenging ones. TRD was right - make sure you will have the patience to work with a donkey or mule. Most folks not used to their way of thinking get frustrated with longears. These guys need to think...and think some more...and think a little more before they decide that what you're asking them to do is not going to put them in danger, commonly misconstrued as stubborness. You can tell a horse what to do, you ask a mule or donkey.
If you have local fairs, check to see if they have any donkey & mule shows. It's always worth it to see them. Longears folks are generally laid back, friendly, and always ready to talk about their donkeys or mules.



Pssst...Fargo! Tell her she should try a mule!

;)