As law enforcement authorities continue to look for a fugitive Kentucky trainer, the 43 horses that were allegedly abandoned still need care. It’s no surprise that during the 18th annual National Farriers Week that hoof-care practitioners are stepping up to lend a hand.

As part of the 18th annual National Farriers Week, American Farriers Journal salutes hard-working farriers with the help of Rosevine, Texas, shoer Ralph Hampton, who wrote “I’m Your Farrier,” which is featured in this video.

In honor of the 18th annual National Farriers Week celebration (July 10-16, 2016), we collected these tributes from members of the equine community to recognize all of the hard work and dedication farriers put forth to keep our horses sound.

The Farriers Registration Council’s Disciplinary Committee removed Charles Stuart Craig from the Register of Farriers after it found that he committed “serious professional misconduct” for using abusive language toward an apprentice, as well as bullying, intimidating or harassing him. Craig no longer will be allowed to practice farriery in England.

More than 90% of American Farriers Journal readers report that they have backyard accounts. While performance horses draw much attention, the backyard horse is the backbone of the industry. We assembled a panel of farriers whose books contain a significant percentage of backyard horses. Mark Aikens of Norwich, England; Pete Healey of San Los Obispo, Calif.; and Dean Moshier of Delaware, Ohio, present their ideas covering the footcare and business of backyard horses. This fast-paced session allows each presenter 1 minute for each idea, so the presenters can cover as many ideas as possible in the time allowed.

There are endless ways to improve your practice. An idea of improved efficiency can save you time and health. A business tip may help you keep more of your hard-earned money. Often, great ideas in these areas come from other farriers who’ve picked them up along the way. Mike DeLeonardo of Salinas, Calif.; Steve Prescott of Hardeeville, S.C.; and Bob Smith of the Pacific Coast Horseshoeing School in Plymouth, Calif.; will present their ideas for you to implement into your practice as soon as you get home. This fast-paced session allows each presenter 1 minute for each idea, so the presenters can cover as many ideas as possible in the time allowed.