American Farriers Journal is celebrating its 50th anniversary and we’re reflecting on the relationships and partnerships we’ve forged, the milestones and the lessons we’ve learned along the way. In the famed Christmas movie “It’s a Wonderful Life,” protagonist George Bailey gets to see, via a dramatic intervention by an angel named Clarence Oddbody, what the world might have been like had he never been born. Hoof-care professionals share their thoughts on what the farrier industry would be like if AFJ never existed.

Regardless of why farriers, vets or other equine professionals choose to let go of clients, ultimately their goal is to protect themselves and the horse. And while the majority of clients are responsible and respectful, it’s crucial to know how to handle difficult situations.