How to Become a Farrier

When you own horses, you know quality farriers are in high demand. You need a professional that can trim and shoe your horse to protect it from hard surfaces, gravel and hoof growth. If you tend to your horses’ hoofs and find it easy and enjoyable, consider taking the extra step and becoming a full-fledged farrier.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Get certified by the AFA (American Farriers Association). Founded in 1971 with the goal of upgrading the care of horses through the art and science of farriery, certification in the AFA is accomplished by taking one, or more, tests designed to demonstrate your skills (see Resources).
2. Take a workshop, sponsored by the AFA. Several regional chapters offer annual training seminars, designed to hone your skills and provide ongoing education. Contact the AFA, toll-free, for more information at [phone].
3. Learn everything you can about horse hoofs, horseshoeing and equine forelimb anatomy. Not all farriers are certified or belong to an association. Contact a local farrier to ask if you can observe and apprentice under his tutelage. You may not be paid, but the experience will be priceless.
4. Practice blacksmithing skills. An intricate part of farriery is the ability to shoe horses. Blacksmith techniques are needed to fabricate and adjust metal horseshoes to fit each individual equine.
5. Purchase “Well-Shod: A Horseshoeing Guide for Owners & Farriers" by Don Baskins. Available from Amazon or through your local bookseller, it serves as a beginning reference for those interested in entering the field of farriery.
6. Subscribe to the American Farriers Journal. An online and print publication full of helpful information, the latest technology and information on current farrier happenings, this is a valuable source for farriers (see Resources).