The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and SHOW horse industry organization will conduct a shoeing clinic Saturday, Feb. 3 to encourage compliance with the Horse Protection Act (HPA).

The clinic’s purpose is to promote understanding of HPA compliance for owners and the professionals who work with their horses, according to a news release issued by the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). The clinic will be run by USDA inspectors and “designated qualified persons from the walking horse industry.” Who these designated persons will be was not specified in the news release.

“This event is a great opportunity for us to fully explain the requirements for proper shoeing so we can help people steer clear of noncompliance with the Horse Protection Act,” says Dr. Aaron Rhyner, USDA Animal Care’s assistant director for operations. “We see this clinic as a tangible way to improve compliance for the benefit of all involved.”

Mike Inman, CEO of the Tennessee Walking Horse Celebration, told American Farriers Journal that he encourages farriers to attend the clinic, stressing that their involvement is critical in promoting understanding of shoeing practices that comply with the HPA. He did not confirm whether farriers will be assisting with the clinic.

Inman believes that the clinic will help further compliance with the HPA. Knowledge of HPA shoeing requirements is vital for proper compliance. Inman thinks this clinic will be a great opportunity to share that knowledge.

The clinic, which is free and open to the general public, will take place from 1-3 p.m. at the Calsonic Arena, at 721 Whitthorne St., Shelbyville, TN 37160.