Barefoot trimming vs. Regular trimming:

Question of the day...an e-mail arrived at the office last week and a perplexed horse owner wanted to know our "official" take on the difference between "barefoot" trimming and regular trimming.  Is one considered better than the other?  What are some of the differences? Is "barefoot" trimming really more "natural"?

Perhaps I've missed something from my training years.  That being the case it's then a moot point.  Am I to think that all who came before misunderstood lower limb physiology and needed correcting in their theory?  As far as I am aware, no one has come forth with any new knowledge or advantage not already presented.  Trimming conundrum?  We think not!  Franchise or trademark trims, where one style of trimming will fix everything just isn't going to happen. Choosing the appropriate style of trim depends on the horse, discipline, job description, conformation, foot quality, environment, performance expectations, etc.

Bingo!!  Most hoof care professional's choices are based on technique and or experience.  A trimming connoisseur's preferences stem from years of experience.  Because we can't standardize a horses needs, the job can range anywhere from elegant to dangerous...the results of an improper trim can be disastrous! Comfort and safety should be number one factors.

Sometimes we just have to do whatever works.  When things go south, we have to be prepared to do as much as we are capable of for the animal's comfort and rider's safety.

 

Time is running out!

Membership Incentives

Take advantage of our Member get a member campaign and Chapter get a member campaign.  These membership incentives will end soon.

Membership Matters

Today as we struggle through these tough economic times and uncertain future, we need you more than ever to help us maintain our powerful voice and grow our membership.  For nearly the last half century the American Farriers Association has been a strong advocate and voice for farriers the world over

Strength in Numbers

Word-of-mouth is still the best way to grow AFA membership. By referring just one new member, you will make a difference. Please join us in this very important drive. Encourage someone new to join the AFA today.  Educate others about the benefits of AFA membership.

Special New Member Rate

For a limited time, any farrier who has never been an AFA member can get a one year trial membership for just $100.00!  But hurry because this offer ends December 31, 2012.

AFA Cultural Exchange Update

Follow Georgia Barry, CF on her grand adventure as this years recipient of the AFA Cultural Exchange Trip!

Select the blog link below to find out where she is and what's she's doing!

http://georgiasuktrip2012.blogspot.co.uk/

Member Benefits Bulletin

AFA Membership Directory:  The AFA has come up with what we think is a reasonable solution for the Membership Directory.  Like the Certification Study Guide, it will be distributed by e-mail; however, the AFA will provide print copies of the Membership Directory to members who request them.  You must make your request for the printed version no later than the close of business on Friday, September 14, 2012.  The Directories will be produced shortly after the Mid-Year Board of Directors Meeting and distributed no later than November 1, 2012.

Please contact the AFA office no later than September 14, 2012 if you want changes to your information that will appear in the directory.

Farnam Coupon Book:  Promote your services with a free business card horse owners are sure to hang onto!  The AFA Coupon Book has approximately $70 in Farnam horse care savings, exclusive to the AFA.  Every time horse owners save on horse care, they'll think of you for hoof care.  The coupon books include your name, address, phone numbers and e-mail  addresses, along with your professional experience, expertise, and specialties.

  To order your coupon books, go to www.horseshoerssecret.com and use your AFA ID # to log in.  The coupon books are only good until December, so act fast! 

Reminder to our Chapters:  Please provide the AFA office with chapter member e-mail addresses so all chapter members can begin receiving their digital edition of Professional Farrier magazine starting in April 2012.

 Events Calendar

Please send your events and functions to the AFA office for inclusion in the Website Events Calendar and our Facebook page.

The American Farriers Association, its officers, Board of Directors and employees will not be held liable for injury, loss or damage to personal property associated with non AFA events.