Equine hoof care is a close-knit industry. When a group of farriers get together, the conversation generally focuses on sharing knowledge about the foot — lamenesses, shoes, tools, etc.

The passion to improve footcare results in a stronger, more knowledgeable trade. While the practical aspect of farriery grows, there’s another that doesn’t get enough attention — farriery is a business.

You didn’t choose this profession to balance budgets, track inventory and chase clients who haven’t paid their bills. Yet, these aspects are incredibly important for your survival in this industry.

“Over the years, I’ve seen hundreds of farriers come and go,” says Ralph Hampton, a Texas farrier who has been in business for more than 3 decades. “There are a lot of talented guys and gals out there who will never make it in horseshoeing because they just don’t know how to run it as a business.”

Failure doesn’t have to be an option. Taking measures to prepare you and your business to endure the rocky climb to stability and beyond will strengthen your chances for success.

The Next Step

Attending farrier school is only the first step toward establishing your small business goals. Education doesn’t stop with your name on a diploma. There’s so much more to learn. Fortunately, you are joining a generous industry that wants to see you succeed. A small collection of them can be found within the pages of this special issue.

Now in its ninth edition, Getting Started In Hoof Care is designed to…