The American Miniature Mule Association Goes Virtual

Sugar and Beth Newmaster, TAMMA Reserve Champion Miniature Mule

by Denise Lassiter

The American Miniature Mule Association and Registry was founded in 2020 with hopes to educate the public and help establish a standard of this breed to showcase their intelligence, agility, strength and their willingness to please. These mules have been around for a long time and, although the public often refers to them as donkeys because of their donkey-like features, they are underestimated in their abilities and intelligence.

Lilly and Denise Lassiter, first place Mini Molly Mule

TAMMA is determined to bring their talents to the forefront. Just because they are smaller than the standard-sized mule does not mean they cannot excel just as much, and in certain circumstances may exceed in their abilities due to their small nature in size. Because we are living in exceptional times, TAMMA decided to be a leader for these animals by holding virtual miniature mule shows to keep pushing owners to try something new.

We are thinking outside the box and want to motivate owners until this world returns to its normalcy, getting your mules out of the pasture and into your hearts even more. The virtual shows allow you to show from your own backyard. You don’t need to purchase anything special, you can use things you have around the house, like buckets, orange cones, chairs, PVC pipe, boards or landscape timbers, etc. The goal is to spend quality time with your animal.

TAMMA completed our first show in July, and a second show that concluded in October. This was the perfect opportunity to practice at home and still be judged by a qualified licensed judge. Our judges are great and have been so gracious to participate in judging these virtual shows, as well.

Elvis and Amy Snead, first place Mini John Mule

Members that have registered their mules will receive points towards awards for the 2021 year. If you join now, membership is good through December 2021. If you decide you would like to register your mini mule, this is a one-time fee for the duration of your ownership and can be transferred to new ownerships for a small fee, as well. We are registering foals and will be offering classes for green/young mules. Your registration will be certified through the Association and you will receive a certificate of registration with identifying photos of your animals.

If you are a first time exhibitor, you can sign up for the open classes that are for non-registered mules. We are also offering miniature donkey classes, as well.

The shows feature classes for youth, which has been such a joy to see young people working with these animals. We even have entries from mini mule owners in other countries. What a great way to build a bond and friendship with others throughout the world!

Once you see all the fun you can have with your miniature mule, we hope that you will want to join us next year at our regular shows throughout the US.

Look for us on Facebook under TAMMA – The American Miniature Mule Association. For information regarding miniature mules, shows or other events, please email denise@tammassoc.com