In simple terms, a farrier is a person who shoes horses. Shoeing horses is an ancient practice that dates back centuries. It is believed Celts were probably the first people to protect their horses' feet with shoes.
Today, farriery is a regulated profession, and shoeing horses can only be carried out by qualified professionals.
Farrier and lecturer Dean Bland from the Hereford School of Farriery explains more about farriers.
How long does it take to train as a farrier?
It takes four years to train as a farrier, which includes 23 weeks of college-based training.
What's the difference between a farrier and a blacksmith?
Farriery is a regulated profession under the Farriers Registration Act 1975. Farriers are legally qualified and registered professionals who support equine welfare through the shoeing and trimming of equines' (horses and donkeys) feet.
Blacksmiths, as their name suggests, produce metal objects through the forging process. They are not legally able to undertake any act of farriery.
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What can farriers earn?
It depends upon the size and design of the business, but I would say £30,000-£40,000 a year as an average.
How much does it cost to shoe a horse?
The price of a set of horse shoes depends on the location and design of the business. However, I would say around £80 to £120 as an average.
Why should people choose farriery as a career?
Being a farrier is an amazing opportunity to run a rural business that supports equine welfare and builds a loyal client base and business model that reflects your interests and aspirations. It is both physically and mentally challenging, but if you have the capacity it is an immensely rewarding career.
Main image: Dean Bland in action, Hereford School of Farriery
Dean Bland has been a farrier for more than 20 years and is a lecturer at the Hereford School of Farriery at Herefordshire, Ludlow & North Shropshire College.
He also worked as part of the Equestrian Support Team for the equestrian sports at the 2016 Rio Olympics.
As well as being a qualified farrier, Dean holds a Graduate Diploma in Equine Locomotor Research from the Royal Veterinary College.
