Horses’ feet grow in such a way that they need to be filed back on a regular basis. Generally this is done every 6 – 8 weeks, but hoof growth depends on the season. Unfortunately, the regularity with which a farrier is called out can also at times depend on one’s pocket.
The Informed Farrier
The most important thing when looking for a farrier is to find one who knows what they’re doing! Many people can file back a horse’s hoof or remove a shoe, but that doesn’t make them a capable farrier. Look for a farrier that:
- Is a good judge of a horse’s conformation and its way of moving
- Is familiar with hoof ailments such as thrush, seedy toe, laminitis, and can provide recommendations on treatment or avoiding such problems
- Is good around horses
- Can provide barefoot work or shoeing, depending on what is desired or needed
The old adage ‘no hoof, no horse’ rings true. When choosing a farrier to look after your horse’s feet, you can afford to spend some time making sure you have someone who knows what they’re doing.
Corrective Work
There are times – often with young horses – where corrective work may be desired. An example may be a young foal that toes in a little. It is possible for farriers to trim the foot in such a way that the hoof is encouraged to straighten over the course of time.
Corrective work in weanlings and yearlings in the Thoroughbred industry is particularly common. A farrier that can help out with young stock by rasping a hoof in such a way that a deviation is encouraged to straighten out can be particularly beneficial.
Ability to Work Unattended
There may be times when you can’t make it down to the paddock when your farrier can. Or perhaps you run a busy stable or agistment property and can’t afford to give up one staff member for the day, so that they can hold horses for the farrier.
Finding a farrier who can work unattended can be an added bonus. They may charge you that little bit extra, but not having to pay a staff member to help them each time they’re due may help to balance this out. Of course, the handling of the horse in question will also dictate whether or not it is going to be possible for the farrier to work with the horse in cross ties or otherwise confined.
A good farrier should develop a rapport with the horses with which they work and be able to provide trimming that encourages healthy hoof growth and allows the horse to travel in the best way possible for that individual. One that consistently teaches you about the horse’s feet and how to keep them in good condition is an added bonus.
Chris Thomas - C. Thomas has studied and worked with horses since 2001. She teaches horse studies part time and is undertaking an Equine Science ...
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