Ask The Farrier
Have you ever been kicked?
I get asked this a lot and the answer is yes. It is a dangerous job being a farrier and you never know when something might happen to scare a horse. Luckily, I have been kicked too hard while horseshoeing.
Does it hurt your back?
Yes, but I'm careful how many horses I shoe, I don't work on rough horses and I do yoga.
Does nailing a shoe on hurt the horse?
No, we are just nailing into the hoof wall, which is exactly the same as our finger nail, just a lot thicker. It still takes a lot of care not to hurt the horse, but when done correctly, a professional farrier makes it look easy.
Why is the Frog called the Frog?
I've asked a lot of people and no one knows. The best answer I heard is it helps a horse jump.
Why do you like being a farrier?
I get to work with horses every day and I get to spend time with fun and talented people. No two horses are the same and I am always trying to improve on my skills as a farrier. It allows for constant growth and continual learning, which means horseshoeing is never boring. Plus San Diego is the greatest city to live in.