For the farrier industry, the surge in equine activity was a business blessing to come out of COVID. While other business segments were negatively affected, the farrier industry largely has experienced a positive impact. An American Farriers Journal exclusive survey revealed that nearly 82% of respondents increased their number of horses over a 16-month period

Applying some reality to this period, count the blessings of financial gain, but also acknowledge that growth comes at a price. For example, if you are one of these busy farriers, are you managing your family and work-life balance? Do  new clients hurt income after accounting for time and additional expenses?

Ups and Downs 

How long will the “good times” last? As localized and isolated as segments of the equine world may seem, it doesn’t operate in a vacuum. The cost of everything in your life and the lives of your clients are climbing. Specifically for farriery, the increased expenses for the supplies necessary to run a farrier business are easily recognizable when comparing receipts over recent years. And, of course, recent months brought increased fuel prices, which can greatly impact an average farrier practice that logs hundreds of miles per week. 

How this cumulative inflation ultimately impacts the equine industry remains to be seen. I don’t pretend to have a crystal ball that accurately predicts how things may change within the horse world — and ultimately farriers.

Before his passing, Hall of Fame farrier Red Renchin often quoted the adage, “Prepare for the worst…