The “Shoeing Showcase Annual Farrier Product & How-To issue” of American Farriers Journal comes out in April for a reason. In much of the country, April heralds the coming of spring — and spring means the riding season is on its way.

That means it’s a good time for hoof-care providers to take stock of the inventory on hand, as well as to take a little time to consider their buying and purchasing habits.

Farriers depend on a well-stocked shoeing rig. They are all too aware that having to make an unscheduled stop at the local farrier supply shop can cut into a day’s schedule — particularly if that farrier supply store isn’t in the immediate area they live in.

Get Advice

If you’re just getting started in the business, this is a good time to talk to some of the shoeing veterans you know about how they make sure they’re not caught without the tools and products they need to perform their job. This is particularly true if you are on a limited budget and can’t afford to carry too much of an inventory. It’s important for you to have the supplies and products you’ll need, but you don’t want to be tying up your limited budget in materials you rarely, if ever, use. 

Red Renchin, a member of the International Horseshoeing Hall Of Fame from Mequon, Wis., is known for keeping his shoeing rigs well stocked. But he also says keeping good records can help farriers ensure they…