If you want to start a heated discussion amongst a group of farriers, just ask, “Do you charge different prices for new shoes vs. resetting shoes?”

It is a simple question, but there will be some strong opinions. This has been a conundrum for at least as long as the 50-plus years I have been shoeing horses. Why does this subject become such a source of arguments? Probably because there is more than meets the eye here and that is part of the problem.

First, let us define what the act of resetting horseshoes is. The dictionary defines reset as to redo, such as resetting a switch or a clock. It is not exactly what farriers do when “resetting” a horse. Maybe “reusing” that horse’s existing shoes after trimming the feet might be a more appropriate term. Some have used the term, “refitting.”

Rate Charging Systems

Some farriers charge an inclusive price or flat rate no matter…