When I first started my own shoeing round in the mid-90's back in Blighty, every one of my clients were obviously, new to me. I picked up quite a few clients who had been using farriers previously who they had labelled as "unreliable". Some of the farriers who had been grouped into the "he doesn't …
Farrier photo: clenching up
Clenching up the chestnut mare I was using Diamond pull-offs, Gibbins chaps and a T-shirt from The Warehouse
How often do young horses need to be trimmed?
How often do young horses (yearlings, two-year-olds etc) need to be trimmed? My farrier says every two to three weeks, as being unshod their hooves grow really fast. But most people I know get their young ones trimmed MUCH less frequently than that. I have a yearling colt and I want to do what is …
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Hoof hoovering hound
Horse and Hound have an article online about dogs hoovering up hoof and the dangers it poses Your dog may love the hoof parings discarded when your horse is shod — but vets are warning that large chunks could be potentially fatal. Owners are warned to clean up quickly after the farrier visits — before their dog does. Fourteen-year-old Mutley had …
Farriers travelling less
I've spoken to a several farriers recently who are encouraging clients to come in to them to get their horses done. I see Jeff Crane from White Stone Forge in the US is now doing the same: It is very hard saying no and it’s hard driving all over the country side. I decided to …
Farrier Forge
Here's the Friday farrier photo for this week. I'm not too sure what type of shoes these were - I don't recognise the clips. Photo is courtesy of Antonia Steeg
Thrush in NZ Horses
Q: I have a mare who is on three to four months’ box rest for an injury, and she is now suffering from thrush. I try to keep her bedding as clean and dry as I can, but it’s not easy. Do you have any suggestions for treatment? Also, she is currently boxed on sawdust …
Does Equine Hoof Shape Have an Effect on Soundness?
Some interesting research into the connection between certain hoof shapes and lameness in this article at thehorse.com Could it be? A potential predisposing factor for lameness that can be seen with our very eyes? According to one British researcher, this dream could be a reality. A recent study revealed that certain hoof shapes and characteristics …
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Concave barstock for making horseshoes
Concave barstock Making horseshoes is so much easier with the right tools - a quality hammer, a nice anvil at the right height, a fire that provides an even heat and a focussed mind are all important. But it's vital to have the right steel to start with too. I was spoiled being an apprentice …
What farriers hear (5)
What the horse owner says: "Do you mind if I watch and ask questions?" What the farrier hears: "I'm having a go myself next time"
Farrier Blog 