Each breed or discipline can make a convincing argument that it has the most passionate following among its devotees. If it were a contest, it would be tough to top those from the Morgan world. It is one of those sub-cultures that leads others in the equine industry to think, “Wow, those guys are serious about their horses.”

Sean Travers has that zeal for Morgans. The Tiverton, R.I., shoer specializes in the breed’s footcare, is well versed in its history and understands how his role as the shoer contributes to a horse becoming a champion. And driven by his passion, he is quick to defend the breed from perceptions that the footcare strategies employed by qualified Morgan shoers are improper.

“I think it is largely based in not understanding what the farriers are trying to accomplish with long-footed, gaited horses,” he argues. “The clientele we work with spend a lot of money on these horses, so they expect quality workmanship and professionalism.

“They want someone who will keep the horses competing, healthy and sound. I believe that because of what we do and the attention we have to pay to the feet, that we are better farriers than what some give us credit for.”

Throughout this “Shoeing For A Living” day, Travers makes his case through his work. With solid mechanics, careful measurements and a team approach to footcare, Travers is persuasive on the matter.

7:49 a.m. The day begins with an unconventional start for a farrier — we’re…