A Sound and Balanced Approach ​to Equine Podiatry

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​I first learned of the farrier profession when I rode horses while growing up in Grafton, Massachusetts It was at this time, when I decided to complete my farrier apprenticeship and focus on achieving a fulfilling career in horse shoeing.  I graduated from Shur Shod horseshoeing school in 2006 and went on to start: Eric John Farrier Service Inc.  A few short years later, my work as a corrective farrier started becoming well known and respected in the area. Resident surgeons from local area veterinary medical hospitals began requesting my services for complex cases.

​I accredit my knowledge and skill sets from the Hands on training and guidance from several respected podiatrist in Lexington, KY.  Working with them here in Massachusetts and spending time in Lexington, Kentucky almost every year working and learning from them.

In the beginning of 2017, is when I started conducting speaking engagements on the fundamentals horse shoeing and essentials of equine hoof care. My lecture: A Farrier’s Perspective, gives several view points on certain lameness-es and treatments. The lecture is well received by horse owners and vet students. I also give additional clinics for veterinary school ambulatory clients and Tufts veterinary students.

I am a proud member of the American Association of Professional Farriers where I hold my Accredited Professional Farrier status.
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Currently I still reside in Grafton, where I also volunteer as a town fire fighter. I enjoy spending my free time with my beautiful wife and our two adorable children.  

The Proven "Three Legged Stool" Approach to Corrective Horseshoeing 

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​I believe any horse that requires corrective horse shoeing has the best chance toward a successful recovery when treated with a "three-legged stool" team approach. Each leg is one of three important people: the horse owner; veterinarian and corrective farrier. These individuals each hold an essential role toward the successful outcome in a horse’s recovery and viable future.  ​

The owner is the single individual who provides valuable personal information about his horse.  The owner is the one who I rely on for their ability to feel, notice and “just know” the slightest miss-cues that originate from the horse. Some super sensitive and acutely aware owners have an ability to detect certain hoof imbalances. The owner is the expert I listen to and learn about the horse’s personality and level of pain tolerance. By the owner being able to provide such insight regarding the mental, emotional and physical state of the horse, I am better equipped to adjust my approach and treatment schedule accordingly. I find the owner’s expertise regarding their horse highly pertinent when assessing the health and soundness of the horse.  I frequently encourage horse owners to be fully involved in the treatment of their horse’s hoof care.  

​Your horse’s veterinarian plays an intricate role regarding any lameness issue. Only veterinarians can properly diagnose the cause to a lameness especially for certain lameness-es that can be difficult to pin point. Your veterinarian provides essential information regarding the degree of injury or illness, providing me with a solid foundation to build upon. I welcome and stress the importance of the veterinarian/farrier relationship. Often times therapeutic shoeing is a trial and error approach with the exchange of ideas and methods from both parties.  Addressing lameness issues can be complex and carry a host of variables that must be considered when devising a treatment plan and course of action.  An educated and experienced veterinarian is the one who can easily assess these variables and suggest treatment options.

​A seasoned farrier who acknowledges the importance of ongoing education and sustains quality workmanship has the ability to assist any horse through an episode of therapeutic hoof care.  One who has taken the time and objective in learning about hoof anatomy and seeking the tutelage from highly reputable experts within the field of equine podiatry, is an individual who can potentially bring your horse back from a traumatic hoof ailment.​

​These individuals each hold important roles on their own. However, when the objective is a horse achieving success in overcoming navicular syndrome, white line disease, laminitis, abscesses or any other corrective horseshoeing scenario. A team treatment approach with the owner, veterinarian and farrier, creating a knowledgeable supportive unity, significantly increases the odds towards a horse’s speedy recovery and the return to original degree of soundness.