Farrier: a closer look at the profession

To feel well and stay healthy so they can give their best, horses need the care of various professionals, and the farrier is one of them. The farrier is the specialist who looks after the feet and hooves of equines, whether donkeys, ponies or horses. They handle trimming and fitting shoes. In this article, we take a closer look at the farrier's profession.

What exactly does a farrier do?

The farrier is the specialist who protects the feet and hooves of equines. Without their work, horses would be walking on raw feet and would be exposed to the risk of excessive wear. The farrier is a genuine equine orthopaedist. They treat and clean the horse's hooves every month before making and fitting shoes. Passionate about animals, the farrier also keeps an eye on the horse's general health. They can, for instance, check that the mouth and teeth are in good condition.

Farriery is one of the oldest trades and has been practised for more than 3,000 years. Today, farriers use modern fitting techniques, and the methods used in this line of work can change a great deal over time. The proof: more and more farriers are helping horse owners buy their equestrian kit on La Sellerie Française.

What qualities and skills do you need to work as a farrier?

The farrier is an equine specialist with an excellent knowledge of horse anatomy. This helps them to read a horse's behaviour when it shows signs of discomfort, particularly in the feet. This professional has a real feeling for animals. Animals are like a second family to them, and they care for them while giving them as much comfort as possible. Beyond the care the farrier gives to horses, this is a professional with a great deal of self-control. A farrier needs unshakeable patience to understand animals and put up with their moods.

It is precisely this patience that allows them to provide the care horses need, to reassure them when they can see fear in their eyes, or when they seem restless because of pain. A farrier must be exceptionally careful and skilful. This allows them to handle the tools they use efficiently when treating horses. Attention to detail also means they avoid injuring the horse and leave it comfortable.

Finally, working as a farrier requires excellent physical fitness. This is essential in order to have real control over horses, which are generally very strong.

What training do you need to become a good farrier?

You can become a farrier after obtaining a CAPA in farriery. You can also enter the trade with a BTM (brevet technique des métiers) in farriery. Once you hold one of these qualifications as a farrier, you can work in riding schools, at studs, or be self-employed. Given the renewed interest in riding, there can be plenty of job opportunities.