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.
Despite long, hard days and the dirty work of shoeing horses, farrier apprenticeships are in high demand in the U.K., according to The Guardian. There are nearly half a million horse-owning households there, instilling a passion for horseshoeing in the youth who are now seeking careers.
This week's facts and figures... Most Full-Time Farriers Attended Horseshoeing School. How Farriers Handle Emails. This edition of Farrier Facts & Figures is brought to you by Markel Insurance Co.
The first shoe I ever pulled off a horse took 45 minutes. My arms, hands, back and legs were screaming at me why are you doing this??? Beads of perspiration dripped into my eyes as my fingers gave their best death grip on tools that felt awkward and heavier with each passing second. Still, the shoe would not budge.
Even if you have graduated from shoeing school, this is just a start, in terms of practical knowledge. Learning from someone who has been shoeing horses for many years is invaluable.
Admittedly, I was harsh and not thorough enough in the detail in my critique of the institutional evaluation of farriers contributing to veterinary continuing education. Due to the brevity of the editorial, I didn't touch on the farrier's responsibility in this.
American Farriers Journal is excited and honored to celebrate its 50th anniversary of publishing the hands-on magazine for hoof-care professionals. Learn more about our special edition, which comes out in December 2024.
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