Daniel Lambert (Zebulon, N.C.)
I began my career as a farrier in 2012 after medical issues forced me to make a career change from an 11-year law enforcement career. Dr. Daniel Lambert, DVM, has been a driving force in my career as a farrier. His passion for horses and advocacy for veterinarian and farrier relationships forges (literally) successful outcomes for horses. He set me up with my apprenticeship and encouraged me to pursue farrier school in 2013. As — what I call initially — a "baby farrier," he taught me about the hoof of a horse on the basic to more in-depth level inside and out. He fueled a passion in me for laminitic horses and client education.
The case that gave me confidence was that of a horse named "Baby," a chronic laminitic who I met with 3mm of sole on one foot and about 4mm on the the other. She, for all intents and purposes, should have been in a hole in the ground. I called "Dr. Dan," as we call him, and asked for guidance. After consulting with clients they agreed to allow me, even as a young farrier, to work in concert with him to help this mare. I walked up on a disaster and had no idea I would walk away more educated and confident.
We utilized a protocol to include ultimate boots to grow sole and stall rest, a very tricky full rocker shoe placed through radiographic guidance, and diet modification. This was no small task, and I gained confidence and skill by helping this mare. His patience with me and the skills he gained by sharing the information he learned at Dr. Ric Reddin's courses (he attended two full-week long classes) was invaluable. I was over the moon with the progress of the mare and I am happy to report that she is doing beautifully. She is currently sound barefoot, but is safe to ride in shoes after 16 months.
It takes a village to train a farrier. One success does not a hero farrier make. One success does build confidence and so does feeling like another professional gives of their time for your education. Client faith, a little science, vets with passion and a willingness to teach us, veteran farriers who teach us our early basic skills, and horses with a will to live who fix themselves.
— Lillian Moore (Nashville, N.C.)
