05/07/2025
This is such a common problem these days.
I get a lot of inquiries from people looking for a new hoof care provider, but their horses do not stand well for the farrier, so unfortunately I am not able to help them. I have too many of my own aches and pains to struggle with horses that pull legs away repeatedly, dance around, or kick.
Seriously. This is basic ground manners. All horses should be trained to stand still for at least 15-20 minutes and hold legs up for at least 3-5 minutes at a time without fuss. (I do make exceptions for painful horses - as much as my body can handle!)
It is not the farrier's job to train your new/young/rescue horse. If you are unable to train the horse yourself, hire a trainer.
I think this is one of the greatest gifts we can give horses to ensure they remain wanted and cared for -- good ground manners, and that includes farrier manners. Make it your goal for your horse to be your farrier's and vet's favorite client. If you take the time to train your horse this skill, it will generalize into all other areas and your horse will be better behaved and more enjoyable to be around in every way.
If you are constantly having a hard time finding a good hoof care provider, or repeatedly "they just stopped returning calls", or wonder why the farriers with the best reputation "aren't taking new clients" when you call........ ask yourself if this could be part of the reason.
Additionally, I cannot possibly do my best work on a moving target. If you horse isn't standing well, he's not getting the best trim.
PLEASE. TRAIN YOUR HORSE. It isn't just for us, it is for them.