13/05/2024
This month officially makes 16 years since stepping into my hoof care journey. I’ll be celebrating that anniversary with an anatomy class at Lookout Mountain School of Horseshoeing, in the exact same classroom my career was born.
Just as that chapter of my life opened, on the same anniversary, I’ll be closing it. You never know when that box of rasps will be the last one you’ll ever purchase.
After much consideration and reflection I’ve chosen to retire from hoof care. I have several friends that have done the same in the passed two months and I think it’s just a season of change between shifts in the industry and economy.
It used to be worth it to hurt at the end of the day and have the bills paid. With inflation and all at hand- the hurt at the end of the day no longer comfortably pays the bills.
My career has taken me on some incredible journeys. I’ve had the privilege to work with some of the most talented people in the US on both the East and West coasts. I’ve experienced cases beyond imagination and seen things I’ll never be able to forget.
In 16 years I’ve helped more horses than I’ll ever be able to name. Both to regain quality of life and to pass over their Rainbow Bridge.
Farriery has depths unimaginable. You can create any type of career you can dream up. I don’t have many regrets from my time as a hoof care provider other than not protecting myself with boundaries earlier on.
Being a Farrier taught me strength, perseverance, how to manage a business, and so much more. Deep down I’m heart broken for this decision but at the same time relieved.
The Farrier industry is getting harder and tougher. Rising costs for supplies mean hoof care providers are having to work harder to cover their bills. Often- this means simply breaking even. Treat them well. They sacrifice more than you’ll know to care for your horse’s feet so that you can ride or compete.
I appreciate the support of my peers and those also walking away from hoofcare for helping me to finally grieve this this decision. To understand it’s not giving up. It’s self preservation in a career full of sacrifice.
