EVERY GRADUATE of a farrier school dreams of riding along with a highly qualified farrier when they get back home. The new farrier is looking for a mentor or someone willing to show them the ropes.

Some are lucky enough to find farriers to ride with, but most go through the grueling task of starting a shoeing business all by themselves.

If you are going to ask to ride in someone’s truck, then you should know some basic rules and expectations.

Know How To Shoe

Qualified veteran farriers expect a basic level of competency from someone riding in their truck. They can’t afford to shoe less horses per day just to teach basics; that’s what farrier schools are supposed to do.

Since there’s a significant difference in the quality of schools and students, some farriers ask a student to pass the AFA Intern Classification test before allowing them in their truck. These tests are given at many horseshoeing schools.

The Intern Classification shows the farrier that:

1. The student has met a specific level of competency, judged by an industry trade organization and not just the school.

2. The new farrier is committed to the profession and has worked hard to establish basic credentials.

3. The student is serious and willing to subject him or herself to oversight and criticism by more experienced farriers.

4. The new farrier is in a learning mode, receptive to being taught.

Contacting Veteran Farriers

A. Join your local farrier association as soon…