QUESTION: Dear Sir or Madam, I am looking for feedback on the standard protocol for farriers regarding cleaning up after shoeing and running magnets for horseshoe nail tips at busy boarding stables.

• Is it generally the responsibility of the farrier to clean up after shoeing and run their magnets for nail scraps or does this fall on the shoulders of the boarders or the stable owners staff and trainers?
• If it is the responsibility of the farrier to pick up nail scraps, then what is the most effective way that you have found to get the farriers who visit the stable to clean up after themselves?
• Is it unsafe to tie a horse in an area where there are horseshoe nail scraps?
• Is it unsafe to leave horseshoe nail scraps on the ground at a busy boarding stable?

I apologize for the absurdity of some of these questions, however, I am having to contend with this issue and would appreciate any feedback you might have. Thank you.

ANSWER: Yours are not absurd questions.  It is only reasonable to expect a farrier to clean up after himself.  A broom and a scoop shovel can easily be carried in a farrier’s rig.  Hand-held magnets are available now from roofing supply and hardware stores.  It’s NOT asking too much for the farrier to do — that’s part of the job!  About your question of how to get the farrier to do it, EXPECT it and tell him only once!  It is unsafe and is unsightly and not for you to do.  One stable owner I’m acquainted with insists that the farrier clean up after himself, and if he doesn’t she doesn’t invite him back.  It’s simply common courtesy to clean up after your work.