On day 1 of your footcare business — as an apprentice or out on your own — you will face tough challenge that you must resolve using your code of ethics. Some of these challenges will be simple to overcome, while others will present potential outcomes that will be difficult for you to answer without negative consequences for one party.

There are many circumstances in which vets and farriers need to work together for the best outcome for the horse. Disagreements may occur during these discussions of the best course to take. In speaking with Diego Almeida, CJF, of the Midwest Horseshoeing School and University of Illinois School of Veterinary Medicine about dealing with laminitis (September/October 2017, American Farriers Journal), he finds that it is imperative for the farrier to avoid misunderstandings with the vet by being prepared.

Wyoming farrier Mike Sussex discusses the significance of keeping hooves healthy through therapeutic hoof care and a holistic approach to horse health.