08/05/2026
Just a public service announcement for anyone looking for a farrier/horseshoer. It may seem like the most important question for YOU to ask, but if the first question you ask is how much is the price for trimming or shoeing your horse, then that is an indication that you are only looking for cheap work, which is an indication that you are not looking for quality, reliability, professionalism craftsmanship or a farrier with horse skills. And you probably have a d**k horse and a bad place to work. If you just want the cheapest price use the Amish.
A better approach would be to,
1 Identify yourself, just basic stuff like what's your name.
2. Say how you heard of the Farrier Service,
Something like I got your name from Barb, she says you are wonderful.
3. Give a location Address. at least a town near you,
This helps the farrier know if he even goes that way. Trust me if you live in Chicago, no amount of money would get me to drive there to do your horse.
4. How many horses do you have needing service.
And what you need done, ie trims, shoes.,French pedicure.
5. let the farrier know when the last time the hooves were done. If it was last shod 9 months ago, and all the shoes just fell off last week this information will let the farrier know he doesn't want to clean up the mess.
6. tell them what you use the horses for, ie. shows, trails, competitive ice skating.
7. a general description of the horse or horses, like are they minis, drafts, zebras, outlaws, unbroke never haltered yearlings that are wild and wooly and full of fleas, and never been curried below the knees.
8 maybe a description of the area used for hoof work. or offer to send a picture.
You would be amazed at the places people thought were a good place to shoe a horse. One customer thought the elevated back porch deck of a house trailer built out of 3/4 inch floor planks would be a good area.
9. or say something like, "I was just calling to see if you might be interested in taking on my horses on a regular schedule, and what would you need me to provide.
This is not a complete list, but I hope it helps.
I here people complain all the time they can't find a farrier let alone a good one.
But maybe they should ask themselves why no farrier wants to work on their horses.
If Price is your only consideration, then you are not considering what it takes for a farrier to want to work for you.
