The American Veterinary Medical Association’s (AVMA) draft of its Model Veterinary Practice Act (MVPA) is intended to be a model of guiding principles to protect the health, safety and welfare of the public and animals. Yet, even the best of intentions can result in unforeseen consequences.

American Farriers Journal believes that the proposed elimination of the farrier exemption could have a profoundly adverse effect on not only the farrier industry, but also equine veterinarians, horse owners and, most importantly, the horse.

An Extraordinary Statement

The AMVA maintains that the rationale for removing the exemption “is in no way an attempt to ban farriers from working independently or require a veterinarian to be involved in shoeing a horse. Rather, it is an acknowledgment that farriery exists well outside of the definition of veterinary medicine and does not need to be included in the MVPA.”

This is an extraordinary statement. Time and again, the industry has demonstrated its knowledge and expertise in the art and science of farriery. It’s deserving of respect for its specialty — providing the best possible care for the equine foot. Yet, those outside of the horse world are unaware of a farrier’s significance. Since the MVPA is intended to be “a model of guiding principles for those who are … preparing or revising a practice act under the codes and laws of an individual state,” it’s incumbent upon the AVMA to be transparent.

Throughout the MVPA, commentary is provided to explain the AVMA’s rationale for various decisions…