Reflecting on Sherman’s fear of the puddle, McDougall realizes that the race will require Sherman to cross two different creeks in potentially wild conditions. He develops his own approach to Sherman’s training, which is based off the Tao-like approach he took when meeting Mika.

McDougall realizes he must remove his desire for a rapid training schedule with Sherman, instead working with Sherman on the donkey’s terms. Taking Tanya’s advice to “make Sherman believe everything is his idea” (89), McDougall makes use of his exuberant goat, Chili Dog, and the assistance of Mika to induce Sherman to cross a creek in order to keep up with Chili Dog. Happy for Sherman and pleased with the success of his method, McDougall names his new philosophy “Donkey Tao” (99).

Tanya shows up, giving McDougall further insights on the scope of his training. Since Sherman was neglected, she explains, he does not “know how to be a donkey” (104) Tanya brings another donkey, Flower, to teach him natural behaviors, as donkeys are herd animals.

While jogging, Sherman tests McDougall, drifting ever closer to the far side of the road to cut McDougall off and make an escape, but McDougall does not realize what is happening.