10/24/2024
As Westman Farriery's schedule fills up with new clients, I wish to share some promises as well as expectations for the best possible farrier-client relationship.
Westman Farriery promises:
Reliability: WF will arrive within 20 minutes of the scheduled time. If that is not possible, we will communicate as soon as possible.
Honesty and Integrity: WF is proud of a reputation built on these values and pledges continued practices based on honesty and integrity. The horses hoof and overall health will be paramount when faced with decisions on hoof care.
Knowledge and skill: Continued professional development built on existing experience, skill, and knowledge is held in high value. Questions will be answered on hoof care and health care to the best of our ability, or answers will be sought if outside our expertise.
Communication: Office hours are 8AM - 6PM. Communication should happen within 24 hours during office hours through phone, text, or social media connections.
Client Expectations:
To best serve your horse's hoof care needs for health and performance, certain conditions must be met.
Reliability: Horse should be haltered, clean and dry, and ready for the farrier within 5 minutes of the scheduled appointment. If not ready within 20 minutes of the scheduled time, the farrier will leave the premises to maintain the schedule for other clients for the day.
Proper workspace: A flat, well lit, clean, open, dry/shaded workspace free of obstacles to provide a work area safe for the horse, farrier, and handler. A proper work space is needed for the best possible work, and is also important to not only assess the horse for balance and make a plan, but for safety of all parties.
Handler: A qualified adult handler must be present at the premises during service. Tied or cross tied well behaved horses will be allowed by agreement, but must still be monitored for safety of the farrier.
Horse behavior: I am not a trainer, nor do I wish to train unruly horses. My responsibility is to provide the best possible hoof care work. A misbehaved horse compromises the quality of work being done. If sedation is needed and agreed upon, client must coordinate with the proper veterinarian or have sedation on board with adequate timing before the farrier service. (i.e. prescribed Dermosadan gel must be administered 30-40 minutes prior to handling). If I feel the horse is unsafe, sedated or not, I reserve the right to refuse service.
Dogs and kids: I love dogs. I love kids! I want to play with your dog and share with your child. During work time, however, I do not want them under foot for me or the horse. Horses are reactive, if they react to your dog the farrier can be placed in danger. I have many tools, sharp and dangerous tools your child want to touch. I wish for safety for all.
Appointments: Appointments are scheduled in advance at the time of service if possible. All horses who wear shoes will be maintained on a MAXIMUM 6 week cycle. A shorter cycle may be needed due to conformation, pathology, growth, or use. Trimmed horses without shoes will be maintained at the discretion of the farrier for optimum health.
Payment: Payment is expected at the time of service. Payments may be made by cash, check, credit card, venmo, applepay, and Paypal.
Trust: I pride myself on my knowledge, experience, and skill. I hope you have hired me for those same reasons. WF will act in the best interest of the horse at all times. If the owner, trainer, or others have suggestions for hoof care, a discussion is welcome. The final decision on application will be up to the farrier and I reserve the right to refuse service if we are unable to come up with a trim or shoe package for the horse we agree upon.
Referrals: Westman Farriery operates on a referral based service. If you appreciate the service provided and wish to continue for a long length of time, please only refer quality people with well behaved horses. I only have one body and wish to protect it well.
These policies are subject to change.
