Introduction to Being a Farrier
Farriers make and fit horseshoes to horses. They are required to have in-depth knowledge of horse anatomy, physiology, blacksmithery, and veterinary insight. Farriers must be able to make shoes from scratch, refit shoes, trim hooves, point out veterinary issues related to a horse's anatomy and physiology, and be able to fit shoes either by hoof nailing of gluing. Several aspects of becoming a farrier may be pursued online.
| Required skills | Horseshoe making and fitting skills, horse handling proficiencies, equine experience, smithy skills |
| Job Growth* | 16% (nonfarm animal caretakers) |
| Median salary* | $23,760 (nonfarm animal caretakers) |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Steps to Become a Farrier Online
Farriering is a very hands-on profession that requires much experience to be successful. A few of the steps to becoming one can be done online, although the vast majority of the work is done in person.
Step 1. Gain Specific Horse Experience Online and in Person
The American Farrier's Journal offers many online resources to increase a potential farrier's knowledge, as well as links to horse-specific publications. To complete this step, potential farriers must work hands-on with horses. They must be able to lead, tie up, and examine the hooves of horses as well as be equipped to handle horse temper tantrums. To gain this sort of experience, people might work as a groom or stable hand. Some schools have farrier or shoeing programs, as well.
Step 2. Search for Apprenticeships Online and Fulfill an Apprenticeship
Aspiring farriers must apprentice with a skilled mentor to gain the hands-on experience necessary to become a farrier. Those seeking apprentices will often post job ads through online forums such as Nextdoor or Facebook or possibly Craigslist. They may also use more nationally recognized online platforms such as LinkedIn and Indeed. Length of apprenticeships may vary, depending on your needs.
Step 3. Schedule Certifications
The American Farrier's Association (AFA) has several levels of qualification for professional farriers. There are three categories: classification, certification, and endorsement. Within these categories, there are other components farriers can obtain. To schedule examinations one can email the AFA office to set up certifications. Some may only be available at the annual AFA convention, but test- takers must notify the AFA before hand that they want to take the certification exam. This can be done online via email. Assessments might consist of exams, written or oral components, and visual displays.
Step 4. Gain Endorsements
Endorsements above and beyond the journeyman certification level are available to farriers. These endorsements can flesh out a farrier's resume and could make them look more attractive to hiring companies and potential clients. Endorsements are available in therapeutics, education, and forging.
Step 5. Search Online Job Ads
Once one is certified and proficient in farriering, he or she must decide whether to work for an established farrier or farriering company, or to start his or her own business. Working for an established farrier has many perks including an already built network of clients, potential insurance and benefits. Job applications are readily found online, but may also be available in local papers and via word of mouth from local horse professionals and veterinarians. Working for oneself requires more marketing and independence but may also result in higher income. Various job listings will be available through online platforms such as horse specific sites like the AFA or more broadly encompassing sites such as Indeed or LinkedIn.