What will you do?
You discuss care with the owner and observe the hooves or claws and how the animal moves. You provide care within your training and experience with that species. Signs of pain or possible disease require referral to a veterinarian. Shoeing horses and caring for cattle claws are distinct specialisms.
- Agree the work with the customer
- Restrain animals safely
- Observe abnormalities and refer health concerns to a veterinarian
- Trim the hooves of animals
- Choose the type of shoe and shoe the animal
- Advise owners on hoof and claw care
Skills to develop
- Physical strength and a back that copes with working bent over
- A calm and confident manner with horses and cattle
- Knowledge of hoof and claw anatomy and common disorders
- Customer skills for advising owners
- Able to work independently
Your foundation for this occupation
Choose practical training for species and duties. Horse farriery and cattle hoof care require different experience. Learn anatomy, observation and handling alongside craft skills. Ask about supervised animal practice, not only material exercises.
From preparation to your first day
Develop the practical skills
Ask owners about use, care history and changes. Practise a calm workplace and assigned tasks under supervision. Discuss abnormalities before proceeding. Medical diagnosis and treatment belong to the veterinarian.
Check your work
Check work and record actions and follow-up. Explain care without promising health outcomes. Seek feedback on handling and finish. Records support repeat visits.
How can you grow?
Specialise by species or use with experienced professionals and veterinarians where needed. Self-employment needs scheduling, administration and physical planning. Discuss travel; these techniques cannot be learned from text alone.
Frequently asked questions
Can a horse farrier immediately work on cattle?
Species, handling, equipment and technique differ. Seek targeted training and supervised practice and describe experience by species.