www.americanfarriers.com/articles/14383-2024-farriers-week-farrier-spotlight

2024 Farriers Week: Farrier Spotlight

Welcome to the 12th annual Farriers Week Farriers Spotlight!

July 7, 2024

Farriers work hard year-round to provide quality hoof care for horses worldwide. To honor their dedication and service, American Farriers Journal created Farriers Week. In its 26th year, Farriers Week is an opportunity to recognize farriers for their contributions to the equine industry.

American Farriers Journal started the "Farriers Spotlight" in 2012, which is an online-exclusive compilation dedicated to showcasing some of the many farriers in the industry. The farrier tributes featured here were either submitted to us by farriers who want to thank their mentors and instructors or members of the equine community who want to express their gratitude to the farriers who care for their horses. If you submitted a tribute, you can jump straight to any farrier's dedicated page by clicking on their name in the list of submissions below.

There are plenty of anecdotes for you to read. Be sure to share this with your family and friends and give your own "thank you" to our beloved farriers in the comments section here or on any of the individual farrier pages that follow. If you'd like to submit a 2024 Farrier Spotlight, you can do so now (Please allow 24 hours for your tribute to be shared).

Thank you, farriers, for all that you do for the industry. Happy Farriers Week!

— The American Farriers Journal Team

Farrier Tributes, in alphabetical order by last name:

Richard Armentrout

Courtesy of Hannah Layne

I was introduced to Richard Armentrout after my Shetland pony was accidentally exposed to black walnut-filled hay. Shortly after Toppie began his painful struggle with foundering, I fell and broke multiple vertebrae in my neck. We struggled together. I was physically limited and sometimes my stalls didn’t always look the best. Over the next year, I was treated to many rude and ignorant comments by a multitude of professionals concerning my pony. Richard never judged me. The process of corrective shoes was difficult and required several people. I noticed while everyone else socialized, Richard studied the X-rays. He was always professional and considerate. He never rushed my decisions or gave up on solutions. He patiently listened and explained everything. His experience and knowledge coupled with his ability to complete the tasks at hand should be the gold standard of farriers everywhere. Sadly, my beautiful Toppie lost his fight. This was one of the most heartbreaking moments I’ve ever experienced. At least I have the comfort of knowing that no effort was spared in order to try and save my pony.

Professional ability is necessary in this field. The one thing few are able to achieve, Richard does effortlessly with kindness. Money doesn’t account for everything. When someone who is as exceptionally skilled as Richard Armentrout comes along, it’s worth the spotlight.

— Stacey Graham, Wooster, Ohio

Richard Armentrout has been amazing to work with. He truly saved my horse. From easing my mind with replies to the many random hoof pictures and concerns to visiting us when we thought we were at the end for my horse and providing life-saving options!

— Hannah Layne, Granville, Ohio

I wanted to thank my farrier, Richard Armentrout, for all he does for our mare! He has given her true balance and helped her feel so much better! He always listens and lets us know if he finds something off and how he plans to correct the issue. Couldn’t have a better farrier in my mare’s corner!

— Heidi Lane, Fairview Park, Ohio

Richard Armentrout is the most thorough, knowledgeable and caring farrier I have ever worked with. He has unlimited patience and skill. He has done an amazing job with my less-than-willing off-track Thoroughbred.

— Kimberley Miller, Hudson, Ohio

Richard and Luke Armentrout are top-notch guys who care about the quality of their work. They’re respectful and easy to talk to and continue to provide excellent service. They have played a huge role in improving our horses’ wellbeing.

— Kate Coleman, Brunswick Hills, Ohio

Travis Burns

Travis Burns is an all-around excellent farrier (member of the American Farrier’s Association, Worshipful Company of Farriers, etc.) and helps many horses. However, his real commitment to excellence is in his patience, clarity and kindness to veterinary students at Virginia Tech. He teaches all the equine track vet students and is always welcoming and generous with his time to explain things and encourage students. He does an excellent job of showing how the vet-farrier relationship can flourish and how working together can make healthy, sound horses. He never puts students down, but his knowledge is so extensive that he can offer a myriad of solutions and shows how to approach problems in a way that best serves the horse. My hat is always off to Travis!

— Jenny Hamilton, San Mateo, Calif.

Pavel Javier Lara Corrales

Courtesy of Emily Rowe

Pavel Javier Lara Corrales goes out of his way to help others advance. He always takes the time to answer questions, give suggestions and simplify the complicated. He keeps reading, studying, dissecting, forging, taking slow-motion footage, going to clinics and generously sharing everything he learns with anyone hungry for knowledge. When a colleague is injured, he is the first to send financial help or even travel to help personally without seeking to be reimbursed. He goes back to the "drawing board" as many times as it takes to find a solution when treating pathologies and injuries. Until the horse can walk off more comfortably, he will keep experimenting.

You will never hear a negative word come from him. Instead of tearing others down, he is always building people up, always trying to find ways to encourage others. He is not only an excellent farrier but an exceptional human being. He will have you laughing and leave you smiling. I know I speak for many when I say I am so thankful for all that he has done and continues to do for the industry.

— Emily Rowe, La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico

Cody Dooley

Courtesy of Mrs. McKinley

Cody Dooley completed 4 years of apprenticeship in Oklahoma and Texas. He then started his own farrier business in 2008 and now owns Bar D Farrier Services in Missouri. He specializes in corrective, performance and therapeutic work. Cody looks at each horse he works on and analyzes what needs to be done to help them. He will look over their body structure, understand the job they need to do, their living conditions, nutrition and the goal of the owner to help in deciding what shoes to build for each horse. He will hand-make shoes for the horses that need more than a basic shoe and tailors each shoe to each hoof. He takes the time to explain to his clients what is going on with their horses and what they can do between appointments to help them. He takes the time to get to know new horses before he gets started with them to make sure they are comfortable with him.

His skill, patience, knowledge, mentorship and friendship are immeasurable to anyone I have ever met. He is the most respectful farrier and man I’ve ever known and worked with. His commitment to his clients and their horses compares to no one else. From listening to his other clients, Cody treats all his clients and their horses with the same care, respect and attention as he does his own horses. He is a well-known “go to” farrier in the Central and Southern parts of Missouri. I have nothing but the utmost respect for him as a person and the work that he provides. His dedication to his clients and their horses shows that being a farrier is not just a job for him but his true passion.

— Mrs. McKinley, Central Missouri

Jason Foster

Jason Foster is a super cool dude! He was always there to provide help and assistance.

— JL Velasco, Ventura, Calif.

Justin Gibson

Justin Gibson allows time for my skittish haflinger. This horse is terrified of men. We have a new rescue, and she doesn't let anyone touch her back legs. With some training and Justin’s gentle nature, we are picking up her back feet. This mare is at least 30 years old. I have had lots of farriers over the years until Justin, but it's been seven years — six of those he also did the boss’s 11 pasture horses. I could never say thank you enough.

— Phybee Conley, Beggs, Okla.

Margie Lee Gustafson

Courtesy of Abby Hill

Margie Lee Gustafson, you are the best mentor and friend a person could be lucky enough to have met! And in a room of 1,000 people, we sat next to each other. Fate, I tell you!

— Abby Hill, Mill Valley, Calif.

Alex Gutierrez

Thank you very much for your effort to teach us everything: how to balance a hoof up to how to work at the forge. Thanks, Alex Gutierrez.

— Edmundo Martinez, Miami, Fla.

Allen Heffelbower

Courtesy of Nicole Willemin

Allen Heffelbower takes excellent care of our ponies. Not only does he take care of their hooves, he gives them massages and body scratches. The ponies love him.

— Marian Haire, Raeford, N.C.

I can't say enough good things about this guy! I met Allen Heffelbower about 6 years ago, and he has forever changed the way I look at a horse's feet. My horse Hardrock was beginning to show his age with arthritis due to his conformation. I was worried about him day in and day out. I spoke with a friend that had much more experience than I did, and she told me that the angles of his feet were not doing his knees any favors, and I should consider changing farriers. That's when I met Allen, and that horse is still standing comfortably 6 years later. It's amazing what changes can be made when your farrier truly cares, and it shows through and through time and time again. There's not a horse that has ever been on my farm that has not benefited from meeting him, even only for a few trims or some correction. He always takes his time and makes sure the job is done correctly in the best interest of the horse. It's not just his performance on their feet that really tells it all though. Every horse that meets him loves him or at least respects and accepts him. From wrestling horses that were trying to kill us, or stringing up donkeys in stalls, to teaching my kids the craft and giving the world's best scratches, there is no better man for the job, and I'm truly blessed to have him on my team!

— Nicole Willemin, Spring Lake, N.C.

John Wayne Jackson

Courtesy of Danielle Elizabeth Niedzielski

John Wayne Jackson has all the attributes a top sport horse farrier should have. He is humble, kind and patient with horses and people. He's a good listener and thrives off the feedback of owners and trainers. In partnership with many local veterinarians, he works tirelessly to address sport horse lamenesses and keep his top horses performing at their peak. He checks in on his horses constantly — whether they're in or out of the show ring, retired or somewhere in between — and has a level of customer service and professionalism that isn't often seen in this industry. He's committed to his own education as a farrier and is always trying to learn something new to further his knowledge and skill. As a mentor, he pushes his apprentices to follow this same approach. Work hard, be kind and always keep learning. Most of all, he always puts his horses first.

— Danielle Elizabeth Niedzielski, Savannah, Ga.

Faith Kearse

Faith Kearse is amazing and truly cares about the horses in her care and the quality of her work. She is easy to talk to and is vested in continuing her education and being open to new ideas. She has played a huge role in improving our horses’ wellbeing and their feet.

— Amanda Loreti, Fairfield, Va.

Sam Mannira

Sam Mannira is more knowledgeable about horses than some of the vets I’ve known. An excellent farrier!

— Bud Thayer, Lake City, Fla.

Dave Meanor

I would like to pay tribute to my farrier, Dave Meanor. He is kind and patient with my horses. He has been my farrier for 15 years. I met him when he was recommended by my trainer to fix a horrible barefoot trim that my horse received previously. He did make my horse comfortable until his hooves could grow out and be trimmed properly. I can’t say enough good things about Dave.

— Georgia Anderson, Cool, Calif.

Bob Mederos

I first met Bob Mederos in 1993 with a horse that was so sore he appeared to have laminitis. I was a new horse owner and had just had him shod. I took him to my equine vet who looked at his feet and said, “You need to get your horse shod.” I replied I just did 1 week ago. The vet put me together with Bob and my education began. I am so thankful for his education and skill and for taking the time to educate me. He saved my old retired show horse and my young show mare who both had laminitis, one from metabolic issues and one from steroid use. Bob was always the very best and such a wonderful mentor. He has touched and changed so many lives through his work. Bob has retired but worked until he was 78 years old and even came out of retirement to help his son Rob Mederos when he was injured in a motorcycle accident. Bob is a legend in his field and deserves recognition for all his sacrifices to the field.

— Melody Aranguren, Livermore, Calif.

Riley Mickelson

I appreciate the patience and tutelage that I received from Riley Mickelson. It took me a long time to get the hang of things, so unlimited forge time was key for my success. As I continue to work and learn, I can’t help but give a nod to where I was able to build my foundation. Thank you is not enough, but that’s all I have to give.

— Clint Jeppson, Afton, Wyo.

Chuck Milne

For me, it has been many many years, and I would bet he doesn’t even know it, but Chuck Milne was my mentor and a guy who went out of his way to teach me things about all aspects of horseshoeing! From trimming to balance, landing flat, breakover, toe length, full heel fit. I could go on for another two full hours! I’m not kidding about this either! He didn’t care that I was a nobody veterinarian who just loved to shoe horses and wanted to be a corrective horseshoeing vet. That’s exactly what I did for the next 30 years in addition to being a regular practitioner. I would go into a barn and shoe around 10 horses then switch hats and do all that barn’s veterinary needs for the rest of the day, plus all the emergencies that came in. But it was Chuck who influenced me the most. God bless you, Chuck, if He hasn’t done so already!

— James Giacopuzzi

Anthony Mulheron

Courtesy of Tess Flores

Words cannot express what a big heart Anthony Mulheron has. He will go the extra mile to help a horse or animal, and our story will tell that. Our small ranch is outside of Ganado, Texas, with cows, horses, mini pigs and goats. We had a young farrier come out to trim our horses, and he never came back after numerous texts and calls. We were getting worried because Sunny, our paint mare, had a cracked front hoof, so I just took a shot on Craigslist and found Anthony Mulheron of AJM Farrier Services. He is an angel in disguise. I reached out to him and sent pictures of Sunny’s hoof. That weekend, Anthony and his wife drove 2 1/2 hours to fix our Sunny! He found she had an abscess and was becoming foundered. After X-rays, our vet recommended composite shoes, so after giving Anthony the information, he drove after work and put composites on her front hooves. Long story short, our Sunny is finally able to walk slowly but normally. She still has a long way to go, but thanks to Anthony — aka AJM Farrier Services — she’s moving forward. But it doesn’t stop there. He trimmed our mini pigs’ hooves, and he and his wife rescued a mare and her colt from a kill shelter!

— Tess Flores, Ganado, Texas

Joao Neto

I am so thankful for our farrier, Joao Neto. My homebred warmblood gelding, Louis, has a grade 3 club foot. Before we were connected to Joao through our vet, we struggled to keep shoes on him. He had a crumbling hoof wall and very little sole depth. He would wear his club foot down to a nub and be lame on it. I was told he would never be sound. I will never forget the relief I felt when Joao first looked at him. He calmly looked at his feet and his radiographs and told me he would be fine. His feet just needed proper management. To have someone who understood his issues and knew what to do to help him was such a huge relief! He used a glue-on rocker toe on his club foot for a year, and during that time he doubled his sole depth, and his wall improved enough that he could wear a nail-on shoe! Joao has been helping us for five years now, and during all that time, Louis has been completely sound and competes in lower level events. He truly cares about the horses. I am not at a large barn. I just have a few horses at my home. He always manages to find time for my horse. I think he knows how much we need him! He is also one of the nicest people you will ever meet. I am so thankful for every day I get to ride my horse. If not for his talent, knowledge and expertise, our story would be very different. I am beyond grateful for Joao Neto, Equine Hoof Solutions, and everything he has done for us.

— Katherine Williams, Tomball, Texas

Tanner Nolan

Thank you, Tanner Nolan, or getting me to stop accepting mediocrity and teaching me how to hammer out some pretty cool shoes.

— Norbert Lorenzen, Missoula, Mont.

Adam Pendleton

Courtesy of Karen Melroy-Oilet

About a year ago, my mare was dealing with lameness that our local vets couldn’t seem to pin down. It was decided we needed a “bigger gun,” and a farrier who’s also a veterinarian made the most sense. Adam Pendleton’s clinic is about a 3-hour drive for us, so visits mean a very long day, but it’s well worth the time. He’s figured out what we need to keep my mare in top condition and does a great job helping us understand what she needs and why. To my knowledge, he’s one of only seven in the world with both certifications. We’re so lucky to have him close to home.

— Karen Melroy-Oilet, Canal Winchester, Ohio

Rory Potter

Courtesy of Michelle Potter

I'd like to pay tribute to our farrier, Rory Potter, for not only doing a great job on our horses, but for doing a great job with our horses! Rory has always gone above and beyond to put the horse first. Her patience, care and compassion really set her apart from other farriers. While that's a lovely attribute, her skill and talent in creating healthy, balanced sound feet have been a blessing! She's brought comfort to horses who've struggled to find comfort for so long. We weren't sure if it was even possible anymore. She's been a true gift to horses and their owners in our area, and we’re so grateful for her!

— Michelle Potter, Cleveland, Wis.

Tony Pukrop

Tony Pukrop, thank you for all the years of dependable, expert care. When things are going well, it’s a quick in and out for trims, but when we had some scary troubles and fixing a problem needed more, you had a plan. All the while, you were teaching us and making sure we were clear on what was needed. We will always be grateful for having our gelding Chance around a few extra years with your help. You’re a man with the kindest nature and emit a spirit of trust to your friends and clients. We want you to know how much you are valued and appreciated, my friend.

— Deb Becker, Wisconsin Rapids, Wis.

Paul Skaggs

Courtesy of Jessica Ball

For the past year, I've had the incredible opportunity to be mentored by Paul Skaggs, an exceptional farrier whose dedication to his craft and community is truly inspiring. Paul's commitment to continuous education is evident in his relentless pursuit of knowledge, which he eagerly shares with fellow farriers in the area. His passion for the profession goes beyond just shoeing horses; he is devoted to uplifting the standards and skills of others around him.

Paul's expertise and dedication have earned him a spot in the prestigious WCB world championship blacksmith competitions. His talent and hard work were recognized when he was chosen to compete in Calgary, a testament to his exceptional skills and commitment to excellence.

Beyond his professional achievements, Paul ensures that family time remains a priority. He balances his demanding schedule with moments dedicated to family, making sure that the bond and quality time with loved ones are never compromised. His ability to juggle professional success with personal fulfillment is truly admirable and has been a cornerstone of the mentorship I have received.

— Jessica Ball, Fults, Ill.

Christopher Stone

Courtesy of Jeffrie Van Loveren

Christopher Stone has been a valued member of our ranch family for a few years now, and he consistently exhibits a genuine compassion for all of our equids and a dedication to providing the very best care possible. Christopher is meticulous in his work and frequently participates in high-level therapeutic farrier sessions that elevate his knowledge and skills far beyond regular hoof care. We hope he will be a valued member of our small ranch family for a long time to come and are grateful for his expertise and his compassion.

— Jeffrie Van Loveren, Dade City, Fla.

Marcus Treanor

Marcus Treanor is patient and caring. He does not get upset. He has worked with my Mini and her vet to get her hooves fixed. She had bad coffin bone rotation. He is a gem.

— Julie Eaker, Trinity Center, Calif.

Andy Ware

We have had Andy Ware as a farrier for 6 years now. Our farrier passed away a few weeks from our spring shoeing. After several calls, we were lucky to find Andy. He took us on, and we feel very fortunate. He has been there for us. He offers a new set of eyes, techniques and knowledge. When we call in an emergency, he makes time for us. He went the extra mile last season and did our horses when we were not able to be there. Again we feel so lucky. He needs to be recognized. We live rural, and there are not many farriers out here like there used to be. We thank you, Andy. Sawyer and Chip are lucky to have you.

— Tracey Leray, Ludlow, Vt.

Tom Wright

Tom Wright isn't just my farrier. More importantly, he's my friend. Over the years, I have had multiple horses with hoof problems of one kind or another. He has not only helped my horses with patience, kindness and expertise, but he has given me support and advice. He has lifted me up when I have lost horses, and he has encouraged me when I needed it, and for that (in addition to being a fantastic farrier), I will forever be grateful!

— Tiffany Bell, Pioneer, La.

Clayton Wilbur

Courtesy of Jeffrie Van Loveren

I’ve had horses for over 50 years in multiple states and never have I had a farrier that puts so much heart and soul into my horses! Not only my horses, but if I call Clayton Wilbur or send him pictures of other people’s horses, he will help them even if they’re not his client. He truly cares for the horse and betterment of his profession over the profits to be gained! My horse is better than ever just by knowing him, and I am a much better horse owner from the knowledge he shares! Thanks to Clayton and the guys at Florida Farrier Service.

— Stacie Clair, Hollywood, Fla.

Clayton Wilbur is a miracle worker. My mare had laminitis and couldn't even walk. He had to actually cast her front feet. She is great now because of his extensive knowledge and ability. Thank you, Clayton, and I can't forget Colton either. He also is very knowledgeable and wonderful with my mare!

— Cindy Connolly, Hernando, Fla.

Clayton Wilbur, Teri and their crew take phenomenal care of our horses. My 27-year-old Appendix gelding has the best hooves he has ever had, and he is barefoot now. It has been an incredible transformation to see in the 21/2 years Florida Farrier Service has been taking care of him. My two mares are special cases, and Clayton and his team have worked closely with my vet to do what is needed to help and keep them sound. They even take care of our two donkeys, which has been a learning process for me since these are my first two. We can't say thank you enough to express our gratitude!

— Michelle Bolitho, Summerfield, Fla.

We appreciate Clayton Wilbur at Florida Farrier Service for all that they do to keep our horses shod to perform. Thank you, Clayton, for your attention to detail that truly gives us the best care for our horses, keeping them happy and comfortable to be able to handle the pressure of competition.

— Christi Torborg, Ormond Beach, Fla.

In my 70 years of having, showing and enjoying my horses I have never experienced such quality people, such caring and experienced craftsmanship and such creative ability as I have been so grateful to know with Clayton Wilbur and Florida Farrier Service!

— Patricia Dempsey, Lady Lake, Fla.

Clayton Wilbur, Teri, Cole and Colton at Florida Farrier Service have provided exceptional care for my three geldings. They successfully address a variety of issues for our boys that are beyond basic hoof care and treat every horse with the same compassion and concern regardless of whether it's a backyard trail horse or a high dollar eventer. They provide peace of mind that my guys are trimmed and shod in a way that protects them from injury and offers additional comfort not always found with traditional farrier work.

— Jeffrie Van Loveren, Dade City, Fla.

Clayton, Colton and Kohl are amazing with our horses and donkey. They have the best feet around. Their skills are top notch, and I can’t recommend them enough! Always five out of five stars. They are always on time and available for emergencies. Couldn’t ask for any better.

— Jessica Caramanica, Weirsdale, Fla.

Clayton and his entire staff are extraordinary in their customer service and provide excellent farrier work! Great communication and there when you need them in an emergency. My horses are super fortunate to have such skilled people working on their feet. Thanks Clayton and everyone at Florida Farrier Service! We appreciate you all!

— Jennifer Duvall Naylor, Ocala, Fla.

Clayton goes above and beyond to make sure my horses are happy and sound. It doesn’t matter to him if it is a high performance sport horse, a senior that still has a job but is a little creaky, a little pony or a pleasure horse, Clayton gives them all the attention they need to feel their best. He is also great at listening to feedback about how the horses are doing and adjusting his plans accordingly. He is truly one of the foundations of my team and deserves so much thanks from me and the clients at my barn.

— Rhianna Pankhurs, Morriston, Fla.