The Hoof Wall — Exploring the World of the Professional Farrier

What Kind of View Do You Have?

By David Farley One of the steps to getting a good trim is often overlooked. If you don’t have a good view of the balance of the bottom of the foot it is difficult to get the best trim. How you hold the leg affects Continue reading

The Busy Season is Not Over

You are still in the peak season, it’s still hot and there is a lot of work to do. Sound about right? One thing you don’t want to deal with is unreliable product or supply! FPD is staying fully stocked with our major products, like Continue reading

Proper Vettec 210 Cartridge Tip Application

There have been a number of questions from individuals who were not aware of the proper mounting of tips on the Vettec 210 cartridges. Below are some images to help clear up any questions you may have. Be sure to like and follow FPD on Continue reading

New Video Releases from FPD

Check out new video releases featuring Diamond Horseshoe Inserts on FPD’s Facebook Page. Be sure to like and follow FPD on Facebook @farrierproductdistribution for educational videos and product information from the pros. Continue reading

Back on the Road: Carefully

by Dan Burke Like many people everywhere the FPD sales team has been off the road, but we are now planning some trips for “small group” visits. Last week I ventured out on a cross-country trip and wanted to share some photos along the way. Continue reading

Vettec Improvements

by Larkin Greene Twenty-two years ago, Vettec introduced advanced urethane adhesives to the equine market, aimed at restoring compromised hoof structure, as well as protecting and supporting the foot. With the development of pour-in pads and rapid setting repair materials, most would agree Vettec created a Continue reading

Keeping Up in Tough Times

By Dan Burke We had inquiries in recent weeks about how FPD will handle the challenges of servicing our customers and the farrier industry with the complications of the Covid19 Pandemic. Of course we start by asking that everyone, everywhere do everything possible to stay Continue reading

Winter Traction Tips

by Bob Schantz Winter can create traction problems for horses, and therefore for farriers charged with their care. Care should be used when deciding how much traction is needed. Excessive traction can create torque to the limbs, too little allows the horse to slip or Continue reading

Establishing Customer Policies

It is unlikely that you set customer policies and firm scheduling criteria when you began shoeing. Any work was welcome and uncomfortable conditions did not cause you great concern. However, as you established yourself and developed your skills you probably began to notice (and become Continue reading

Power Up: Power Cord Tips

If your tools and electric motors are getting hot and you are connecting them with an extension cord, it is a possible sign that you have the wrong gauge extension cord. Not only will the use of the wrong extension cord reduce the performance and Continue reading

Basic Shoeing: Shoeing The Roping Horse

by Mike Chance, CJF There are as many ways to shoe roping horses as there are horses. Each one is unique, with its own strengths and weaknesses. A sound horse with good conformation, in a desirable environment, would do well barefoot. Yet this scenario is Continue reading

Tool Corner: Hoof Tester

by Dave Farley, CF APF-I Most seasoned farriers will agree that a good hoof tester is a must in your shoeing tool collection. When used properly you can determine an area where a hoof has pain. The key thing here is to know how to Continue reading

Basic Shoeing: Shaping for Symmetry

by Dave Farley, CF APF-I One of the constant struggles in shoeing horses is the effort to establish and maintain good hoof shape. It is not unusual to have a horse come to you that has been fit to the perimeter, a method many of Continue reading

Tool Corner: Tool Tips

By Roy Bloom, CJF APF-I Always wear your safety glasses. You are striking steel against steel and working with hot material. Anything can happen, so be safe. Always strike the tool in the center of the striking surface. Striking off center or on the edge Continue reading

Basic Shoeing: Foot Finish

By Dave Farley Your customers may never lift the foot to check your work but you can be sure they take a good look at the hoof as the horse is standing in front of them. A few minutes spent on a good finish will Continue reading

What is it Like Shoeing a Million Dollar Horse?

Guest Blog by Rob Logsdon, FPD, Inc. Lexington, Kentucky is largely considered the “Horse Capital of the World” because of the numerous horse farms, Keeneland Racecourse and Keeneland Association Thoroughbred Auctions. From September 10 to 23, Keeneland is hosting their September Yearling Sale, recognized as Continue reading

Setting Standards for Hoof Preparation

by Bobby Menker, CJF APF One of the best ways to prepare for the practical portion of the AFA certification test is to study the guidelines set forth in the AFA pamphlet “Guidelines for Evaluating Farrier Competitions and Certifications” and incorporate them into your everyday Continue reading