Backyard horses are an important part of a hoof-care business. Particularly with novice horse owners, farriers may need to serve as a hoof-care educator.

For years, our readers have been telling us that backyard horses are the backbone of many of their hoof-care practices. These horses, often seen as beloved pets and family members by their owners, are the horses that many young farriers get started on. Even shoers who move on to top performers at high-level horse shows and hard-working horses on ranches and farms often keep some backyard horses on their books.

Results from the 2012 Farrier Business Practices survey indicate that 93% of AFJ readers provide hoof care for at least some backyard horses.

AFJ readers have also told us that having a horse or two that they or their children can ride is often one of the things people really look forward to when they move to a hobby farm. But wanting that horse doesn’t mean that the new “rancher” knows much about horses to begin with. And odds are they know even less about hoof care.

That often means the farrier not only has to provide the hoof care, he or she will also have to educate new clients about the needs, goals and costs of hoof care.

During the coming year, AFJ wants to help you in your educator role.

Each issue, in a new department, “You And Your Horse’s Feet,” we’ll address an aspect of hoof care. We’re setting up these articles as…