Purpose
There are currently approximately 155,000 horses in Michigan, based on the last Equine Survey (2007). While these numbers may have decreased somewhat based on the recession, the use of horses in the state has not decreased, and in fact may be increasing (personal observation). Each of these animals is in need of regular hoof care, with trimming required every 6-8 weeks and shoes (for those who are shod) required on a similar schedule.
The old adage “no foot, no horse” holds, in that a horse without regular hoof care by a knowledgeable professional is unlikely to be of use to its human caretakers. Further, most horsemen and women would rather hire someone knowledgeable to do this work than to do it themselves. Finally, well-trained farriers have the potential to make a decent living, as evidenced by an "American Farriers Journal" survey in 2012 that found the average annual salary for full-time farriers in the U.S. was reported to be $92,623 per year, and for part-timers, $21,153. This amount is an average and varies according to experience level, training, etc.” (TheFarriers Guide.com)
The problem currently facing the horse industry in the Midwest is that there is currently no reputable means by which to consistently produce well-trained farriers. Michigan residents wishing to pursue this line of work have needed to leave the state for extended periods of time. Until now.
Print
Email