Relief for itchy horses

It's that time of year again, when rugs are being biffed off the horses, their winter coats are being lost and in some cases, lighter cover options are getting dragged out of the barn. Driving around on my daily tasks, I see so many horses scratching themselves on fence-posts, fences or sometimes less suitable itching …

Farrier polo shirts – Kiwi Farrier Clothing

We've designed and manufactured some polo shirts for farriers. We chose fabric that keeps the farrier cool when working - the special weave pulls moisture away from the farrier whilst allowing the shirt to breathe. The special extended back piece covers the lower back when farriers are bending. The flap can be tucked in or …

If my horse goes lame after being shod, should I call the farrier or vet?

Q: If my horse goes lame immediately after being shod, should I call the farrier back, or get the vet? Belinda, Auckland A: Great question Belinda.  Unfortunately, the inevitable does happen occasionally when a horse is sore after a hoof-care appointment.  We trim and/or shoe horses primarily in order to make them more comfortable.  During …

Why use concave horseshoes?

We have a choice of horseshoes in New Zealand and they all offer slightly different benefits. Farriers generally understand some of the benefits of true concave steel shoes. At farrier competitions in NZ (and in many countries around the world) the use of concave bar is common place. Similarly the training of apprentices and shoemaking …

Farriers – when quality really counts

Times are tough financially for many around the world and the cost of keeping horses isn't cheap. Horse owners are feeling the pinch, maybe some looking for lower cost hoof care options whilst the business operating costs for farriers has skyrocketed over the past few years but their charge out rates haven't necesarily adjusted accordingly. …

One handed hoof nippers

These are great for keeping one hand free when trimming difficult horses, foals or geriatric horses who have trouble lifting their limbs too far off the ground. The spring on the handle of the Cottam one handed hoof nippers makes for easy and smooth cutting. They're a good quality tool made in the UK, very …

Updates

I've got some planned upgrades to this blog over the coming days Redesigned layout More regular blog posts 🙂 Social media plugins New URL If you have products or services you think might be of interest please let me know. I'll be welcoming posts from guest bloggers from time to time Thanks and stay tuned …

Top ten technology tools for farriers

Here's a list of my top ten gadgets/software that helps me get ahead in business, makes my life easier and frees up some time to spend with the family. Any modern-day farrier who truly values their time and wants to maximise their success should make the most of technology BlackBerry - I'm currently using the …

Thrush in the horse’s hoof

With winter on the way, now is a good time to plan your winter hoof care regime for your horses and ponies. With so many competitions and things to take part in (winter dressage series, eventing, lessons and pleasure rides for example) a large number of people continue riding throughout the winter season. Regardless of …

Kevin Bacon’s Hoof Dressing

Kevin Bacon’s Liquid Hoof Dressing For the past couple of years, we’ve been the New Zealand distributor for the Kevin Bacon’s Hoof Care range. The flagship product in the range is Kevin Bacon’s Liquid Hoof Dressing. Made in Belgium from 100% natural ingredients, Kevin Bacon’s is the crème de la crème of hoof care products …