Anouk Millasson Maréchale-ferrante

A farrier is a professional who specializes in shoeing and trimming the hooves of equines, mainly horses. This profession is very old and dates back thousands of years. Today, although the number of working horses has declined significantly in some regions, the profession of farrier remains important for horses used for leisure, sport, breeding, and work.

The main responsibilities of a farrier include:

1. Shoeing: Farriers make, fit, and attach horseshoes to horses' hooves. Shoeing protects hooves from excessive wear and tear and injuries caused by certain types of terrain.

2. Trimming: In addition to shoeing, farriers are responsible for regularly trimming hooves. This involves removing excess horn and shaping the hoof to maintain the balance of the horse's foot.

3. Care: Farriers inspect horses' feet to detect potential problems, such as infections or abnormalities. They may also advise owners on the proper care of their horses' hooves.

4. Fitting orthopedic shoes: In some cases, the farrier may need to fit special or orthopedic shoes to help correct locomotion problems or support injured hooves.

This profession requires a good knowledge of horse anatomy, as well as a thorough understanding of potential hoof problems. Farriers generally work independently, although they may also be employed at stables, equestrian centers, or veterinary clinics.

To become a farrier, professional training is usually required, and apprenticeships with experienced farriers are often undertaken. It is essential to be skilled with forging and trimming tools and to have a good approach with horses.

In short, farriers play a crucial role in maintaining the health and well-being of horses by caring for their hooves, thus ensuring their mobility and comfort.