Successful farriers develop an individual plan for every horse they shoe.

When preparing to shoe a horse for the first time, there’s a checklist to chart a course for its success. Some basic information is needed from the owner and your inspection of the horse.

Visually, take a quick conformation assessment. Information like age, use or problems is necessary to be aware of. This information will guide your thought process to formulate the right plan for this horse.

It’s essential to see a horse walk to assess how it lands, loads and moves forward. For example, it’s not normal for a horse to land toe first on one or both front feet. So, what options should be considered when trimming and shoeing?

If the hind feet are swinging inward, what are those consequences, and what will you consider doing about that? If there happens to be a head nod or hip hike, we should at least point that out before continuing to work, then check the appropriate foot for a reason.

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