Finding the “Right” Farrier for Your Horse Care Team

Farrier Education

It is up to the horse owner to determine who is qualified enough to fit their needs. Cutting a hoof is easy; anyone can do it. You hire a professional to know where and how much to cut appropriately. Deep knowledge of anatomy, biomechanics, physiology, and how a hoof can be manipulated through trimming and/or orthotic devices can mean the difference between top performance and lameness. Educational bullet points to consider are:

• Farrier Schooling
• Basic Trade School Education
• Past and Future Continued Education
• Personal Professional Development Over Time

Farrier schooling programs, if attended, vary widely in their curriculum from 2 weeks to 2 years. No two programs are equal in their offering. A great farrier consistently evolves and will continually expand their knowledge and practical skills through:

• Practice
• Attending Farrier Clinics
• Educational Seminars
• Competitions
• Reading
• Staying Current with New Research and Developments
• Mentorship

Having a farrier well-educated in how nutrition affects the hoof is also very important. An imbalanced diet will directly influence hoof quality, body condition, and overall health. A farrier who can recognize these nutrition-related issues can save you time, effort, and money; not to mention, save your horse from potential health issues. Choose a farrier who can help advise you on your horse’s feeding program and potential supplements.

Ask a potential farrier about their background, specialty, and education because his/her credentials showcase experiences, further education, and achievements.

Also, inquire about other professionals and mentors they have worked with.

 Experience as a Farrier

Knowledge is knowing what to do; wisdom is knowing when to do it. Knowledge comes through education, but wisdom comes from experience. Becoming an experienced farrier by trimming a few horses on weekends isn’t easy. Experience is gained by consistently handling hooves.

Specialization is becoming increasingly common in the farrier industry, especially at the top levels. If you have specific needs, whether for competition or lameness, ask a prospective hoof care provider if they have intimate knowledge or training in that particular field. A professional should be knowledgeable, but humble, and know their limitations or gaps in their knowledge. A farrier with mentors to call upon, when help is needed, can also be important.

Professionalism

Professionalism is often defined as a strict adherence to courtesy, honesty, and responsibility when dealing with individuals or others in the business environment. It goes beyond being good at your work. This trait often includes a high level of excellence by going above and beyond basic requirements. A true professional does not speak ill of competition to attempt to make themselves look better. They treat their clients and horses as though they are of the utmost importance. They present themselves and their businesses professionally and ethically. This applies to their appearance, attitude, horse handling, and business practices.

Horsemanship

The farrier must be competent and courteous with all horses. They must be comfortable, kind, and confident while working closely with these animals. Horses are experts in reading and reacting to body language. Observe how a farrier interacts with the horse; if they ask gently to pick up and handle a hoof, and how they respond to an uncomfortable situation. The relationship can go from good to bad very quickly without these skills.

You want a farrier genuinely interested in the horse’s well-being for everyone’s health and safety. A professional will know when to walk away from a dangerous or uncooperative horse. To do the best work, the horse must stand well for the farrier in a safe, open, well-lit work area. It is reasonable for the farrier to demand this. It is up to the owner to have a trained animal or have a veterinarian with proper sedation available if needed.

Referrals from Horse Care Professionals

Hoof care is very important for horses. You do not want to decide lightly who cares for your horse’s hooves. Approach your trusted veterinarian, trainer, or another trusted farrier and ask who they suggest for your riding discipline and needs. Association or farrier finder websites can also be helpful. Many association pages have a ‘search for farriers’ section with info on each member’s specialties, continuing education earned, and certifications. However, the association pages only list their current members. Many of the best farriers may not be members of an association or do not advertise, as they are plenty busy. A referral from a trusted source to the farrier can go a long way to “squeezing in” on a full schedule. To remain on their schedule, have your horse ready on time, clean, and organize an appropriate work area for the farrier.

Cost

Do not get stuck on cost comparison alone. Anyone can trim or shoe and charge for it. No two are equal in skill, experience, and specialty. Interview prospective farriers, ask questions, and make an informed decision. A true specialized professional will often command a premium price, but a high price alone does not mean the practitioner is top in their field.

“If you only consider the cost, make sure to consider the cost to the horse.”