At some point in their careers, a lot of farriers have a disturbing epiphany.

It’s a pleasant summer morning near Carthage, N.C., as Martin Kenny gets ready to go to work.

In the aftermath of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, which devastated the United States’ Gulf Region, one of the less publicized stories involving animal rescue and voluntary aid revolved around an incredible joint effort of a number of farriers, veterinarians and veterinary students in Louisiana.

The debate about whether horseshoeing and farriery is a science, a craft or perhaps an art form has probably been around since the first horseshoe.

Blood flows through the equine hoof, reaching almost to the surface as it delivers oxygen and other nutrients needed to keep the foot healthy.

When it comes to footcare work, there are probably more similarities than differences among top shoers from around the world.