Some farriers are finding the 3-day ban on the use of drugs and medications is becoming a more serious issue when working with high-level horses. This is particularly true of those that that need immediate hoof repairs to keep competing. And a big question is whether we'll see a trickle-down effect at more shows that will impact shoers.

While arrests were made earlier this spring of Maryville, Tenn., horse trainer Larry Joe Wheelon and two co-workers suspected of violating the Tennessee law against animal cruelty, an early June arrest was made of a farrier for his role in the disgraceful practice of soring. This represents the first time a farrier has been arrested in conjunction with ongoing state and federal soring investigations.

Dealing with young horses presents another example of the importance of using your mind, developing your eye.