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Show Jumper Shoeing In Norway

Farrier Aksel Vibe shares some thoughts on uncomplicated work while shoeing two jumpers


Pictured Above: For farrier Aksel Vibe, is it important to review your work with a horse from the appointment prior.

It’s been said before: Farriery isn’t rocket science. Aksel Vibe is one who subscribes to this phrase.

“Don’t make it more complicated than it needs to be,” he says. “As horseshoers, we are often inventors, so sometimes we can over complicate things.” 

Although it isn’t rocket science, there is much to consider when working with a jumper so it can compete in the show ring. Vibe shared some of his thoughts on thinking ahead, yet not over complicating matters while shoeing two high level jumpers at a sport horse barn in Oslo.

Communication Is Key

Vibe is at this barn every week. The first horse he’s working on just returned from the European Championships, so it is slightly overdue. Vibe talks to the trainer about the horse before he picks up a foot. He says that conversation with 
the trainer is critical

Farrier Takeaways

  • When working with a rider or trainer, bring small changes to their attention, but discuss larger changes prior to doing them.
  • Trying to change too much to get the horse to be “ideal” in your mind, may not fit for the horse’s performance needs.
  • Take time to note subtle changes in the horse or shoe wear that may indicate larger problems down the road.

“In that conversation, you should ask the obvious questions on how the horses are doing and developing,” he says. “The more familiar…

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Jeremy mcgovern

Jeremy McGovern

Jeremy McGovern is the former Executive Editor/Publisher of American Farriers Journal.

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