Maintain a regular schedule of hoof care. Every 8 weeks is standard. Due to seasonal changes in growth in Maine, we typically schedule every 6 weeks May-Oct, and every 8-10 weeks Nov-April.

Scheduling- Usually we schedule on-site for your next appointment. If not, please call  2-3 weeks before you'd like an appointment, especially in the summer. Cancellations are always fine, just please give me as much notice as possible. I will do the same with you. The more flexible you can be, the easier it will be for me to provide service for your horse.

Hoof Emergencies- I do try to provide immediate service for emergencies but I am not on call like a vet. Please text if you have a farrier emergency (lost shoe, abscess, etc) as I only check voicemail every few days.

The Workspace

• The workspace should be safe, free of hazards, with adequate lighting. If shoeing, the space should be within 20 feet of where my truck can park. Electricity to run my equipment is also helpful.
• The footing should be dry, flat and firm. Concrete floors, rubber mats, old carpet upside down and plywood are all options.
• The area should be covered, ideally a barn or run-in shed, to protect us from sun, weather and insects.
• Practice first- stand your horse for 15 minutes in “the farrier area” a few times before the appointment, so he gets used to the space. It’s a great time to groom and practice lifting and picking the hooves.
• Provide a buddy horse, tied or held nearby, if your horse needs one to stand quietly.
• You horse should be caught, belly and legs brushed and fly-sprayed before the appt.
• Prevent other animals (dogs, goats, chickens) from entering the workspace, for everyone’s safety.
• Your horse should stand patiently for farrier work. If he doesn't, please inform me before your appointment and I'll give you pointers on training him prior to our meeting. If your horse has special needs (stiff joints, sore feet, etc), please let me know and I will accommodate him.