Tommy Boudreau, a Mineral Springs, Texas, farrier, at work making shoes in his shop so they’ll be ready for the next day’s shoeing.

Whether shoeing one horse or a dozen, improving your efficiency in trimming and shoeing is an important key to success. Tommy Boudreau, an American Farrier’s Association certified farrier from Mineral Wells, Texas, says it’s always wise to use time efficiently. 

Preparing For The Day

“Before you leave in the morning, make sure all tools are sharp,” he says. “Have plenty of hoof knives and your floor tools ready to go. In your toolbox, all tools should be sharp, handy to reach and easy to put back quickly. This will save your back and take stress off your body.”

On the truck, he has his forge set up where it’s easy to light and use quickly.

“You can mount it permanently or on a swing-out. Any other way will cost you time. Any extra time spent at any of your jobs means more stress on your body,” he explains.

“Have your pad cutter where it’s easy to access and your bar-stock shears, shoes and nails within easy reach in your rig.”

Boudreau keep a quartz light handy, especially during the winter.

“I learned this from Myron McLane, years ago,” says Boudreau. “He shoes horses in Massachusetts and has two big quartz lights he uses all day to take the chill out of the air. Winter days are short and fluorescent lights aren’t as bright as you need. I…