Farrier George Fitzgerald is “trying to be semi-retired.” A staple in the farrier industry, Fitzgerald splits his time between Sandy Hook, Conn., and Wellington, Fla., while operating a rodeo rough stock business on the side.
There is a select company of farriers who are universally recognized when referred to by their surname. Doug Butler certainly is one. After more than a half-century of horseshoeing, the Crawford, Neb., farrier has cemented his legacy in the industry as an acclaimed educator, author, speaker and competitor.
When a Thoroughbred’s racing days are over and has a new line of work, there’s a good chance that both the farrier and hoof-care client will face challenges.
Using a “big picture” approach of assessing the whole horse — from topline to toes — can identify factors in the animal’s body that might affect hoof shape and condition. Paying attention to how a horse uses its body can provide a farrier with practical insights into the best way to trim or shoe the animal to maximize its performance potential, says Mike Stine, a Marshville, N.C., farrier and owner of Equine Dynamics.
Many farriers have a tried-and-tested method of working with microbial issues on a horse’s feet. But from time to time, a case might come along that is particularly stubborn — when nothing seems to work or it just keeps recurring, despite a hoof-care professional’s best efforts.
To honor their remarkable careers in hoof care, seven individuals were inducted into the Halls of Fame during the 2020 International Hoof-Care Summit in Cincinnati, Ohio.
Greg Martin, CJF, of Boerne, Texas, takes the unique approach of marketing his hoof-care practice with a Christmas parade float in Boerne and Comfort, Texas. The award-winning float boasts a variety of surprising features.
Life Data Labs Inc. is a dedicated product manufacturer committed to producing premium quality animal nutrition and health products through continuous product improvement and new product development. First-class ingredients, fresh products, consistent high quality and scientifically proven effectiveness are the principal features of Life Data Labs animal health products. And that's why they've produced the #1 recommended hoof supplement by farriers for 12 consecutive years.
Kawell develops and produces copper alloy horseshoes and inserts, giving horses the care that they need to fight issues associated with white line disease, seedy toe and thrush.
From the feed room to the tack room, SmartPak offers innovative solutions to help riders take great care of their horses. SmartPak was founded in 1999 with the introduction of the patented SmartPak™ supplement feeding system. The revolutionary, daily dose SmartPaks are custom-made for your horse, individually labeled and sealed for freshness.