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Agricultural Careers. Farrier. By: Dr. Frank Flanders and Jennie Simpson Georgia Agricultural Education Curriculum Office Georgia Department of Education June 2005. START. What Is a Farrier?.
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Agricultural Careers Farrier By: Dr. Frank Flanders and Jennie Simpson Georgia Agricultural Education Curriculum Office Georgia Department of Education June 2005 START
What Is a Farrier? • Farriery is a skilled job, requiring sound knowledge of the theory and practice of shoeing horses. • Farriers check a horse’s leg, foot and hoof and undertake any remedial work necessary before fitting the most appropriate shoe for its size, foot condition and type of activity or work. • Most of a farrier’s work is in daylight hours, including weekends, but actual hours vary according to the needs of their customers. • Farriers go to their customers’ premises to work, traveling between the different locations and carrying a mobile workshop of tools and stock with them.
Duties of a Farrier • Observe horses’ legs and hooves while the horse is stationary and in motion to check for any peculiarities in movement or abnormalities in the size or shape of the hoof. • Remove old shoes and note wear patterns • Inspect, clean, trim, and shape the horses’ hooves. • Consult with owner or trainer regarding proper shoes for working conditions • Create sketches and drawings for proposed shoe • Heat shoes in a forge, shape them on anvil and hammer to appropriate size • Place and nail shoes on hooves and ensure that footwear is smoothly lined up with hoof walls
Becoming a Farrier • An ideal farrier must be able to work alone, but also deal well with the public and relate well to clients. • They should enjoy working outdoors and like to travel fairly extensively. • A farrier must have a love for horses and enjoy working with animals. • Skills such as being task oriented, patient and being able to work quickly, efficiently and to remain focused for long periods of time are necessary.
Education • There is no formal education required to become a farrier, however some type of secondary training focused on farriery or equine science is considered advantageous. • A degree in business might help with running the farrier business. • College classes related to equine science, metal work, and blacksmithing would be helpful. • Most farriers complete an apprenticeship with a master farrier to gain practical experience after attending a farrier school. • Apprenticeships can last several years.
Employment • Salary depends on how much time and effort an individual puts into this career and whether they work full time or part time. • The average salary for a full time farrier is $18,367 per year. • Those with expertise can earn $22,000 or more per year. • Due to the continued growth of the horse industry, job opportunities as a farrier will continue to grow at an average rate. • A person with adequate training and experience should not have difficulty finding a supportive business as a farrier.
Animal Scientist • Horse Trainer • Veterinarian • Veterinary Assistant • Veterinary Technician Related Careers
Career Resources American Farrier’s Association 4059 Iron Works Parkway, Suite 1 Lexington, KY 40511 Internet: http://www.americanfarriers.org Farrier Industry Association 403 Axminister Dr.Fenton, MO 63026Internet: http://www.farrierindustry.org