Develop A Systematic Approach To Shoeing

During more than 30 years of shoeing, Red Renchin of Mequon, Wis., has developed a unique approach that has helped him build a thriving practice that includes many high end hunters and jumpers. The approach involves asking himself questions about each horse to collect information and repeatedly going through checklists to make sure nothing of importance is overlooked. Before the International Horseshoeing Hall Of Fame member shoes any horse, he observes it and asks himself a half-dozen questions that will impact the trimming and shoeing:

• Is the horse sound?
• Does he have any “interference jewelry,” such as cuts, scars or other marks from interfering?
• Are the feet in proper proportion to his size?
• Does he toe in or does he toe out?
• Do the feet look long?
• Do the hoof angles look high or low?

Fessing Up To Your Mistakes Can Be Good Business

While hoof-care clients will forgive you for a mistake or miscalculation, they aren’t likely to forgive or forget any decision made to cover up the mistake. When something goes wrong, Pat Croce, former president of the Philadelphia 76ers basketball team, recommends that you follow the “Three R” approach: taking responsibility, demonstrating regret and offering a remedy.

Late Breaking News And Views...

Studies with horses 20 years and older indicate that up to 10 percent have clinically apparent Cushing’s syndrome...When a client is strapped for cash, offering a credit card payment option may allow you to do all his or her…