CHOOSING A PROFESSIONAL
In response to the letter from Sandy Mcqueen (Pacific Horse). We can hear the cry of anger and frustration in the words of Sandy Mcqueen. As with other professional farrier’s I have heard this cry for help several times.
On that day Sandy had requested a simple trim and reset of front shoes from a farrier that had never worked on and was unfamiliar with her horse. So instead what she received was a lack of communication resulting in a very lame horse. Sandy is absolutely correct in her statement that in Canada “ there is no regulatory body that all farriers must belong to”. There is no accountability in the farrier trade for malpractice. It falls upon the principles of each individual to take responsibility for their own actions. Although at times farriers do make mistakes, such as quicking a horse with a nail, a professional upon making a mistake should immediately inform the owner of the horse and treat the situation. It is difficult for the average horse owner to choose a professional farrier. Most owners choose a farrier for all the wrong reasons. Choosing a farrier on price and availability as a guideline may lead to unsatisfactory work and is best avoided. Anyone can purchase farrier tools and start shoeing horses with very little education. The problem originates from the horse owner; they keep hiring unskilled tradesmen ( usually because they’re cheaper ). There for the unskilled tradesmen keeps shoeing horses.
There is no licensing board for farriers and they do not have to be registered with any organization. There is certification in the farrier industry. Here are some guidelines to aid owners in their quest to hire a professional farrier begin by asking a potential farrier how they learned their profession. A proper and complete education is the key to becoming an accomplished professional.
Schools and Apprenticeship:
Many attend schools to increase their knowledge and skills. Such schools should cover the areas of knowledge, which are difficult to teach in the field, such as anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, business practices, and professional conduct. Some schools only offer a three-month coarse or less. We have two of the best schools in North America right in our back yard. Kwantlen University college offers a nine- month program and is located in Surrey BC. Olds college offers a six month with a five month apprenticeship and is located in Olds AB, attending farrier school is only a start for gaining education. After completion of a farrier program some are lucky and find an apprenticeship. Excellent farriers usually apprentice with an established professional with a good reputation. During the apprenticeship the apprentice will start to except clients to build a farrier business of their own. Apprenticeships and schools help a farrier do a satisfactory job while they are practicing and gaining experience.
Certifications:
The American Farriers Association was started in 1971. It has since grown into a national organization that guides the farrier industry bye long range planning. This includes goals of continued research, nationally recognized farrier certification, and increased levels of communication throughout the farrier industries. The AFA is widely excepted by professional Farriers here in Canada and has there for become established as a good industry standard. Also the AFA has 50 chapter association which the WCFA is part of.
There are 3 levels of certification:
1 INTERN FARRIER
2 CERTIFIED FARRIER
3 CERTIFIED JOURNEYMEN FARRIER
Farriers who have just completed a farrier school may opt to try for an intern farrier status. After shoeing for a minimum of one year may opt to take the test for certified farrier. Farriers who have been shoeing for a minimum of two years may take the test for certified journeymen farrier.
The initials CF indicate an AFA certified farrier. CJF indicates an AFA certified journeymen farrier. AFA is specifying the certification is from the American Farriers Association
Continuing Education:
Continuing education is an important factor in determining whether a person is a professional. No one farrier knows all there is to know about farriery the need to learn and share is essential. Farrier associations conduct seminars, clinics, and workshops. They hold conventions, which display the newest products and materials available. Some farriers compete in farrier competitions to improve their skill. Some compete locally while others travel to compete throughout the world. These farriers are highly advanced professionals.
What to ask a prospective farrier:
Here are some questions to ask a potential farrier. Inquire about the farrier school they attended? How long of courses? If they apprenticed, how long, and with who? Are they certified with the AFA? Do they continue to advance their education by attending seminars, clinics, and conventions? In addition to professional knowledge you must be compatible with the individual, confident that they can and will do a good job. Are they nice? Do they show up on time? Do they always treat you and your horse with respect? Are they willing to answer your questions and share their knowledge with you?
Choosing a farrier to provide hoof care for your horse is one of the most important decisions you will make for the well-being of your horse. Improper hoof care can lead to injury and/ or lameness, and may reduce your horse’s ability to reach his full potential.
The information in this article is only a guideline to help you with your quest to choose a professional.
Best of luck.
Howie Thomas AFA - CJF