Professionals in physically demanding careers, especially the self-employed, often feel invincible. Strength building and physical fitness are simply part of the job. No one thinks a life-changing illness or injury will knock on their door — until it does.
Farriers around the United States often find themselves working in extreme heat and cold. Many have suffered from heat-related illnesses, injuries and even fatalities. Recently, the U.S. Department of Labor announced that they are holding various discussions on establishing a new workplace heat standard for small businesses.
Mitch’s farrier and horse training business was doing well, as was Suzi’s Serenity Wellness Retreat. The cherry on top came in mid-June with the birth of their granddaughter.
Much of the country is celebrating the arrival of spring, but let’s face it — it’s mud season. As the paddocks and pastures languish into a soupy mess, you can almost hear the revelry of the bacterial jamboree that is the horse’s hoof.
Horses are a popular host for growing tick populations, increasing farriers’ exposure to tick-borne diseases (See Strategies for Preventing Tick-Borne Diseases).
Ticks might feel like a modern annoyance — especially given that Lyme disease was only recognized about 40 years ago — but these parasites have existed since prehistoric times.
Working under a horse all day is hard on the body — especially the back. And there are always risks for a wreck. With close to 30 years of shoeing, 18 of those full-time, Jacob Manning of Roosevelt, Utah, wishes he had taken better care of his back.
This Week: Hoof-care professionals across the country and the ocean are sharing what they know with others in the industry through social media, webinars and videos. Here are a few of our favorites.
Oleo Acres Farrier and Blacksmith Supply owner Rob Michel walks viewers through the Littleton, Colo., warehouse. Inventory is organized with the customer in mind. If the product is in stock and easy to find, farriers can spend more time under a horse, which Michel says is more money in your pocket.
Equine Cushing’s and Insulin Resistance (ECIR) Group Inc. is hosting a webinar titled "PPID and the Seasonal Rise" at 5 p.m. ET on Wednesday, Sept. 2, 2026. Dr. Eleanor M. Kellon and Dr. Kathleen M. Gustafson are the clinicians.
At Doc Foal's, we manufacture The Black Pads and The Black Pads PLUS (featuring embedded magnets and copper). Our hybrid pads work seamlessly with your choice of conventional horseshoe, combining metal for structure with polyurethane for exceptional comfort and shock absorption.
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We stock a wide range of high-quality products from trusted brands to ensure durability, performance, and reliability in every job you undertake. Our extensive inventory of horseshoe products and farrier tools means you can find everything you need in one place, saving you time and effort. Your satisfaction is our top priority. We are committed to providing excellent customer service, prompt shipping, and hassle-free returns.
Equilox International Inc. specializes in equine horse hoof adhesives. Developed in 1988 after many trials and extensive research at leading universities and equine centers throughout the U.S., the Equilox Adhesive Hoof Repair System was originally used to treat competitive horses. Now, Equilox Adhesive is used by farriers, equine centers, and horse owners — as well as various zoo and wildlife centers — throughout the world.