The shorter, cooler days of autumn herald the approach of the cold winter months. Starting with the spring season, we all race around to participate in shows, rodeos, or backcountry camping trips. When those exciting events wind down, we can focus on all the tasks we’ve put off — those “before winter rolls around” jobs.

Over the past 30 years, I’ve worked as a horse trainer, a cowboy, and a farrier. Today, I’m a full-time farrier and have always been very active in our horse community. I would like to share how my perspective has changed over the years and how my experiences as cowboy, farrier, and trainer have influenced how I work today. I also want to talk about safe spaces, safe horses, and share some insight into the farrier industry and what is happening with farrier training and qualifications.

Hoof wall separation disease (HWSD) is an inherited disease in some Connemara ponies characterized by separation and cracking of the outer hoof wall. This can lead to ponies having to support their weight on the sole of the hoof instead of the hoof wall, which, in some cases, can result in chronic inflammation, severe lameness, and laminitis. Affected ponies typically show clinical signs within the first six months of life.

For many horse owners, visits from the farrier occur every six weeks and typically involve routine trimming or standard horseshoeing. When a horse remains consistently sound and performs well, regular farriery by an experienced professional is usually sufficient for optimal hoof health. However, when soundness problems or decreased performance arise, more specialized farriery approaches may be needed to restore comfort and function.