KL

by Keith Latson

The 2025 Giving Trip Journal: Day 2

The 2025 Giving Trip Journal: Day 2

Day 2: Mules, History, and Heroes - Tales from Alotenango

The road to Alotenango winds through Ciudad Vieja, where every cobblestone tells a story of Spanish conquistadors and the birth of colonial America. As our team traveled southwest from Antigua this morning, we couldn't help but feel the weight of history beneath our wheels. This very path we drove once witnessed the Spanish capital's multiple migrations – from Ciudad Vieja in 1527, forced by mudslides from Volcano de Agua to Antigua, where it remained for two centuries until earthquakes pushed it finally to present-day Guatemala City. The echoes of these historical shifts still resonate in the communities we serve, where resilience and adaptation remain crucial survival skills.

But today's story isn't about Spanish conquistadors – it's about a different kind of nobility altogether: the mighty mule. Alotenango revealed itself as unique among the communities we serve, with an unusually high population of these remarkable hybrid equids. There's a poetry to this that our team couldn't help but appreciate: in a landscape where practicality meets necessity, the mule represents nature's perfect compromise.

The science and economics of equine work in these mountains tell a fascinating story. While donkeys can carry up to half their body weight with minimal sustenance, and horses offer speed and agility, mules strike the perfect balance – combining the horse's swiftness with the donkey's resourcefulness. They can carry 30% of their body weight and demonstrate remarkable longevity, often working well into their twenties. It's a stark contrast to the local horses, primarily Spanish or Criollo breeds descended from conquistador mounts, who rarely see their teenage years due to the harsh demands placed on their lighter frames.

What we witness here is a complex interplay of economics and practicality that directly impacts animal welfare. The average working horse we encounter is just seven years old – a heartbreakingly short working life driven by early onset orthopedic problems. These issues stem from carrying excessive loads before their bones fully develop, a practice born of necessity rather than choice. The horses, though least suited for the work, are most numerous because they're the least expensive. Donkeys, the most expensive and efficient, are rare treasures. Mules, requiring a male donkey for breeding, become a luxury few can afford despite their ideal attributes.

This economic reality creates a tragic cycle: families invest in less expensive horses that wear out quickly, rather than more expensive but longer-lasting mules or donkeys. It's a reminder that in developing regions, the most cost-effective solution isn't always the most sustainable one. Part of our mission involves educating owners about this false economy while providing care that can extend their animals' working lives.

Our day in Alotenango exemplified the comprehensive approach needed to address these challenges. As our team of thirty veterinary students rotated through their stations, each case became a teaching moment, each animal a professor in its own right. We saw the direct impact of proper dental care on nutrition, watched as strategic hoof trimming improved mobility and weight distribution, and witnessed how basic wound care education could prevent minor injuries from becoming career-ending infections.

The weather blessed us, the location inspired us, and most importantly, everyone – human and equine alike – stayed safe as we worked in close quarters. The genuine interest from the local community in learning better care practices was particularly encouraging. We're seeing a gradual shift from traditional "strong arm" handling methods to more sympathetic approaches, a transformation that benefits both animals and their caretakers.

Today, we'd like to introduce you to the remarkable individuals who make this mission possible. Picture a team where every member brings their unique magic: Dr. Robbie Schwyzer from Santa Fe, whose poetic soul and healing hands work wonders through acupuncture. His approach to veterinary care combines traditional medicine with alternative therapies, offering relief to animals suffering from chronic pain and stress.Dr. Concepcion "Concho" Hernandez, our Mexican horse whisperer, represents the bridge between traditional practices and modern methods. As a veterinarian, farrier, natural horseman, and saddle maker, Concho embodies the versatility needed in regions where specialized care isn't always available. Since 2012, his gentle methods have been slowly replacing centuries-old "strong arm" tactics, showing local owners how partnership with their animals yields better results than dominance.

Dr. Scott Fleming's presence here tells a story of coming full circle. From receiving the Texas Equine Veterinary Association student scholarship in 2012 to returning as a skilled veterinary podiatrist from Rood & Riddle equine hospital, his journey mirrors our project's mission of nurturing the next generation of equine care providers. Today, he shares this experience with his 13-year-old daughter Callie, adding another layer to our multi-generational approach to sustainable change.

The team's diversity of expertise creates a comprehensive care unit: Mike Pintar capturing perfect moments through his lens while expertly handling dental care; Dr. Nick Moore performing his famous minimally invasive dental extractions; and Zig Zeigler (yes, that's really his name!) keeping spirits high and operations running smoothly with his signature humor. Dr. Leslie Easterwood shares her encyclopedic knowledge of equine ophthalmology while managing our pharmacy, and Dr. Michelle Bakker brings fresh energy and expertise in emergency care to our team.

Watching this diverse group work together – from founders Dr. Keith Latson and Dr. Rob Franklin to every volunteer – reminds us that true change requires more than just medical expertise. It needs heart, humor, patience, and an unwavering commitment to both the animals and the communities they serve. Each team member contributes not just their professional skills, but their unique perspective on how to build lasting relationships with these communities.

As the sun set behind Volcano de Agua, we couldn't help but reflect on how this land has been shaped by both natural forces and human determination. The Spanish may have built their capitals here, but it's the working equids and their caretakers who truly built these communities, one heavy load at a time. For millennia, these animals have been the silent partners in human development, particularly the humble donkey, whose contribution to building civilization deserves far more recognition than it receives.

Our Gratitude

We extend our deepest gratitude to the Texas Equine Veterinary Association Foundation and the Foundation for the Horse for their continued support of the Equitarian Initiative and the Texas Equitarian Project. Their commitment makes our work possible, ensuring that these vital animals receive the care they deserve. This support allows us to continue building bridges between modern veterinary medicine and traditional practices, ultimately improving the lives of both working equids and the families who depend on them. 

If today's story moves you, please consider supporting equine health initiatives through the Texas Equine Veterinary Foundation or the Foundation for the Horse. Your donations can help fund vital programs including student scholarships and volunteer initiatives focused on working horses in developing countries. Every gift makes a difference in advancing equine health and welfare worldwide.

*Continue to Day 3 and 4 of our 2025 Giving Trip here.*

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