Articles by Jeremy McGovern

Frankly Speaking: Survey Results Serve Cautionary Reminders

By Jeremy McGovern posted on October 28, 2022 | Posted in Business Practices

For more than 30 years, American Farriers Journal has used our November issue to provide insight into running an efficient and profitable business. In this issue, you’ll find several articles that deliver keen business advice, alert you to shoeing rules of various breeds and disciplines and give you a guide to products and services.

News & Notes

Manufacturers Share Frustrations with, but Offer Help with Racetrack Shoeing Regulations

Group outlines issues with HISA's shoeing regulations and impact on production

By Jeremy McGovern posted on October 1, 2022 | Posted in Disciplines & Breeds

Established by federal law in 2020, the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority was entrusted with creating uniform rules affecting various areas of Thoroughbred racing in the United States. However, the establishment and enforcement of shoeing regulations have left many in the farrier industry frustrated.

Badass Rigs & Trailers

Organization Key for Managing Hoof Care on Thoroughbred Farms

Kentucky farrier Nathan Stephens shows how his shoeing rig keeps him organized at Crestwood Farm in Kentucky

By Jeremy McGovern posted on September 7, 2022 | Posted in Business Practices, Equipment

Several years ago, Nathan Stephens realized his business suffered from inefficiency. The Richmond, Ky., farrier works on young horses, mares and stallions on Thoroughbred farms around Lexington.

Welding an Aluminum Bar Shoe in the Forge

Colombian farrier Ivan Gomez uses aluminum bar stock and a welding rod to make a bar shoe.

By Jeremy McGovern posted on September 6, 2022 | Posted in Forging, Therapeutic Shoeing

There is an abundance of aluminum horseshoes on the market, particularly for therapeutic needs. Ivan Gomez believes farriers need forging skills not only to modify manufactured shoes specific for the horse’s needs, but also have the ability to make an appropriate shoe at the horse if lacking the inventory.

What Causes Hoof Capsule Distortions?

A quick survey of common causes of distortions to the hoof capsule

By Jeremy McGovern posted on September 6, 2022 | Posted in Anatomy, Lamenesses

Tom Petersen defines distortions as alterations from the original form. More specific for farriers, common deviations like flares or crushed heels are alterations of the original form of the hoof capsule.

How to Forge a Fuller

Alabama farrier Phillip Box shows how he makes this farrier tool

By Jeremy McGovern posted on September 2, 2022 | Posted in Education, Equipment, Forging

The tool bug bit Phillip Box several years ago, motivating him to attend toolmaking clinics. The Notasulga, Ala., farrier drove across the Yellowhammer State once a week for years to learn from Russell Colvin, a well-known toolmaker.

Farrier Tip

How to Tell Hoof-Care Clients You’re Increasing Prices

By Jeremy McGovern posted on August 5, 2022 | Posted in Business Practices, Clients

As inflation increasingly burdens farriers’ bottom lines, most are raising prices to remain profitable. But how do you communicate the price change to your hoof-care clients?

Communication Key for Managing Clients

By Jeremy McGovern posted on July 31, 2022 | Posted in Clients

Last year, a younger farrier rode in Tom Trosin’s shoeing truck. While chatting between stops, the junior horseshoer identified one aspect of farriery that the Oklahoma farrier excels at — and it has nothing to do with trimming and shoeing.

Base Your Farriery Prices on Your Costs

By Jeremy McGovern posted on July 28, 2022 | Posted in Business Practices

There are differences in how every farrier approaches his or her business. Still, the most common and effective way to manage the finances of a farrier business remains knowing what it costs to shoe a horse.

4 Traits That Will Help You as a Farrier Apprentice

By Jeremy McGovern posted on July 26, 2022 | Posted in Business Practices, Education, Safety & Healthcare

About 20 years ago, Jessica McGrane wanted to begin a career as a farrier. She asked West Chester, Pa., farrier Dave Werkiser if she could learn the trade from him. Werkiser admits that he was at first hesitant, having had some previous helpers join his practice, but leave just when they became useful.

Videos

Hoof Care on Parade

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.

Events

Michigan Horseshoers Association 55th Annual Clinic

Date: 01/02/25

Location: Lansing, MI

The Michigan Horseshoers Association will host its 55th annual clinic Jan. 2-4, 2025 in East Lansing, Mich.

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