Farrier (Horseshoer)

A Farrier is a horseperson who cares for the horse from the ground up. The Farrier is concerned with caring for horses' feet. This includes, but is not restricted to, shoeing the horse, either in a routine preventative manner or as a corrective measure to address a specific problem. The Farrier should be able to trim feet, hot shoe or cold shoe, and to shape the shoes to the foot. Evaluation of conformational and gait problems is essential. Farriery involves the practical application of physics and biomechanics of the horse. A Farrier must also have a well-developed eye for spacial relations. Some Farriers with substantial experience specialize in corrective shoeing for helping horses with conformation or gait problems, or with special medical or disease problems affecting the hoof or lower leg. Some specialize in shoeing certain types of horses such as race horses or gaited show horses. Good horsemanship is very important, and physical strength is essential.

A competent Farrier should have a minimum of a two-year degree in Equine Science or Farrier Sciences, although a number of accomplished farriers have learned their trade through apprenticing with other established Farriers and attending many continuing education events. Currently there are no laws requiring certification or licensing for Farriers. There is a professional association called the American Farriers Association (AFA) that has a certification program that tests and certifies farriers at several levels; including AFA Certified Farrier, AFA Certified Journeyman Farrier and AFA Master Farrier.