Q: As you look back over your career as a farrier, you may have things that you’ve done that stick out in your mind, either something that was very positive or negative. Think back to the first days of farrier school and/or your apprenticeship. 

With a new semester of farrier classes about to begin, what advice do you have for new farrier science students about to begin a career in horseshoeing? I would like to pass along any advice you might have to our new students as they begin their new career. 

Our farrier program is somewhat unusual in that students typically attend both theory and hands-on farriery classes (from shoeing to blacksmithing to anatomy to business management) for more than one semester. Any advice you have for advanced students would be shared also. 

—Nate Allen, Farrier Science Instructor, Mesa Technical College, Tucumcari, NM, allenk@sr66.com

A: Next summer will be better! And it always is. 

  —Bill Adams, marbil13@northcoast.com

A: One of the most important things a new farrier should remember is not to forget the basics of shoeing. My Principles of Horseshoeing book (by Dr. Doug Butler) is extremely well used. After 10 years in the industry, whenever I am stuck, I refer back to it. 

It is also important not to overdo it. Even if you feel you can do more horses per day, slow down or you will pay dearly for the overuse of your body in later years. Understand  your limits. Don’t get under ill-mannered or untrained…