Despite The Rumors, Don’t Worry About Future Use Of Hoof Acrylics

When a major manufacturer recently decided to stop selling acrylic materials to a number of hoof adhesive makers, rumors quickly spread among farriers that this might lead to total elimination of these hoof-care products. While the decision will result in some needed manufacturing changes with hoof acrylics, the use of these products is definitely here to stay. In addition, this manufacturing dilemma doesn’t affect urethane-based hoof adhesive products.

The move by Lord Chemical Co. has been thought possible for sometime. To remedy the situation, suppliers have built up inventories, started developing new hoof adhesive products and worked diligently at lining up new acrylic sources. As a result, you can look for a new generation of hoof acrylics and related products from several suppliers later this year.

What’s Critical To Your Shoeing Success This Year?

In an exclusive American Farriers Journal survey conducted during the American Farrier’s Association (AFA) annual convention in Kansas City, Mo., farriers were asked about the importance placed on seven items as they relate to the success of their shoeing business this year.

• 64 percent were concerned about the impact fuel prices would have on their business.

• 60 percent believe there’s a need for more cooperation between farriers and equine vets.

• 53 percent were concerned about the rising cost of farrier tools and supplies.

• 53 percent were worried about rising insurance and retirement costs.

• 30 percent see the need for doing a better job of marketing…