Hiring help can be one of the most advantageous moves that a farrier makes. Yet, it also can be daunting, especially when the arrangement ends unexpectedly. An American Farriers Journal internet poll finds that the vast majority do not look positively on hiring. When asked about their experiences, 75% say that it’s typically a struggle finding and retaining apprentices. Another 24% say that finding and retaining apprentices is a mixed bag. Just 1% say it’s typically a smooth process.

When you have a good client, you look forward to getting to that barn. They respect your investment in developing skill and knowledge, appreciate your work with their horses and — although it isn’t about the money — they pay on time, without commentary on the price.

Dave Farley’s late January day of “Shoeing For A Living” starts at Brooklyn Bagels, a deli-coffee shop, not far from his home in Wellington, Fla. There he meets his son and shoeing partner, Jay. He also hooked up with Red Renchin, the recently retired farrier who also serves as technical editor for American Farriers Journal, and me.