In response to Crazy As A Fox’s recommendation of donkeys as a potential multi-purpose survival animal, I would argue that everything positive aspect of donkeys noted can also be said of mules (the product of a male donkey and female horse). They have the additional benefit of being less stubborn, faster, and more intelligent than donkeys.
Working at a Christian dude ranch in Colorado, I had the opportunity to ride mules on a daily basis and can vouch for their amiability as well as their refusal to put their rider or themselves in danger which makes them particularly suited for inexperienced riders. Best Regards, – Scott in Minnesota