Q: What do I need to do to prepare for the farrier?
A: GOOD PREPERATION! I have put together a few items that impress me as well as make my life easier when I show up to an owners barn.
1. Start off on the right foot by makeing sure that you give good directions to the barn and a reliable means of contact if the farrier becomes lost.
2. Be on time. I make a point to make sure that if I am going to be more than 15 minutes late or need to reschedule, I give the owner or barn manager a call. The same thoughtfulness is appreciated by the farrier.
3. Arrange for payment. If you are unable to be present for the day's activites, be sure that arangements are made for payment. A good example is,"The check is nailed to the inside of the barn door." Also find out if the farrier has a billing program, if so what are his policies?
4. Have the horses at the ready. There is nothing more frustrating than wandering through a large pasture while trying to catch an unruly horse. Time is of the essence for your farrier. Have your horses in a stall or small enclosure for easy access.
5. Good working conditions. Ensure that a safe, clean, well lit, and well ventilated area is provided for the work to be performed. Remember, the better the work space provided, the better the farrier can work to his highest capabilities.
6. Proper restraints. Does your horse stand in cross ties? Do you have a place to tie the horse,(A tail gate is a real bad idea)? Are you availabe to be on site to hold the horse? If not, will a barn employee be there and be of capable means.
7. Good behavior. Your horse should be well behaved and tolorant of normal shoeing activities. This is on you to do this, not the farrier, he is paid to shoe the horse. If your horse will not stand, do you have provisions to encourage good behavior? Treats are definatly not an opion. They are viewed by the horse as a reward. Have a good twitch, physical restraint, or a extra set of helping hands. If none of these are availabe, we recomend consulting a veternarian for sedation.
All of these elements taken into consideration can make the experience of the farrier visit more enjoyable for you and your horse, as well as more productive for the farrier. As an after thought, a cold coke or a warm cup of coffie is generaly appreciated but not manditory. I thought you might just want to add that little tidbit to your list.
