American Farriers Journal
American Farriers Journal is the “hands-on” magazine for professional farriers, equine veterinarians and horse care product and service buyers.
One of the best things about attending events like the 2003 American Farrier’s Association convention in Salt Lake City, Utah, in late February is the opportunity to pick up little nuggets of advice from the real masters of the shoeing trade.
Often, these little tidbits are asides or throw-away comments made during lectures on unrelated topics. They aren’t enough for a full article on their own, but they’re still worth sharing. Here are a few we picked up at Salt Lake City.
EDDIE WATSON, CJF, Anvil 21 Club, IHHOF, Keswick, Va.
“You have to earn the respect of that veterinarian. Bend over backwards to get along with these guys. It will benefit
DOUG BUTLER, CJF, FWCF, IHHOF, PhD, La Porte Colo.
“When something works consistently, it’s not controversial. If it works occasionally, it’s controversial.”
“The definition of expert is someone who’s made every mistake possible in a narrow field.
Lee Green
WALT TAYLOR, CF, Anvil 21 Club, IHHOF, Albuquerque, N.M.
“Think about more than feet and the physical work. Decide what you do well. It will enable you to find and work on your weaknesses.”
“If you need a crutch to face the job every day, you’ve got a problem.”
“Develop the idea that you will do the best job you can on every horse. Don’t fall into the trap of thinking an expensive horse needs a better shoeing job than that shaggy, backyard pony that belongs to a 6-year-old.”
“I’ve found that some horses are morning horses, but stay…