Horse Handling

Welcome to the new Farriers Forum. I know there's probably a little confusion out there, so let me take a moment to explain a few things. First, to post on this bulletin board, you're going to need to register as a user. You can do that by going back to the home page and clicking on the "Register" button on the left-hand side of the screen. That will walk you through a registration process in which you'll pick your own password. Once you've done that, you'll be able to login any time you want to use the site, and post your messages on the Farriers' Forum. If you don't register and login, you will still be able to view the forum, you just won't be able to be an active participant.

You'll also notice that we've divided the Forum into subject areas. We've done that to more easily enable users to go to an area that might address their horseshoeing concerns and also to speed loading of the pages, particularly for people who have slower connections (as I do on my home computer).

Please remember that we've always emphasized that we want this to be your site and your forums. If there is something you don't like or a way you think it could be improved, send me an e-mail at ptearney@lesspub.com and we'll see what we can do.

Regards,

Pat Tearney, Managing Editor,

American Farriers Journal

James,

I pulled the trigger a little quick. My previous positioning should have said do not hesitate to get involved in local, state, and national farrier organizations. These serve as endless networks.

Nate

james, definitely do get involved in local events and allow your work to be seen! You may be suprised!

When the horse arrived (Giatano-Navajo for friend) he had a cut about 5 inches long and 3 inches wide with the bone showing-this is between his eyes! he also has a cut on his left front cannon bone! All from the trailer-This will be a real trial for the both of us because I don't believe in giving up sure wished that they had taken my advice and heavily sedated him prior to his first trailer ride! Hint "Never put a Wild Horse in a Horse trailer" when he is not trained to ride in one! This is what Stock trailers are for!

James, there is some very good client building advice here. In addition, I also agree on how important it is to actually meet and speak with your area verterinarians. This gives you an opportunity to relate your training and experience as well as your interests, etc. When I did this a short time ago I was assured that I would be receiving referrals from them.

I would also recommend giving free lectures, slide presentations, etc. to pony clubs, 4H clubs, etc. This accomplishes a couple of things. Firstly you are now in front of a group of horse owners (potential clients) with an opportunity to demonstrate your ability and knowledge, etc. Secondly, you are showing your desire to help educate and give something back to the horse industry. It will go a long way in building a good reputation in the area you work.

Most importantly, we must do our best for our clients and their horses. We musn't short change them in any way. Think about each horse you work on as though your results were going to be evaluated by an instructor. Continually upgrading our skills and knowledge through study and clinics, etc. I find this bulletin board an excellent way to learn about new methods, ideas and products so I like to log on every couple of days or so to check things out. I have also found the archived files filled with excellent information.

After all "satisfied client referral" is your very best method of building a clientele.

Good luck