The horse’s foot is a bio-mechanical marvel with many parts. Each part has a function. One of the most interesting parts is the frog. The frog is an insensitive, wedge shaped cushion or pad that helps the horse with shock absorption, traction and circulation. It is also a scent gland. The exact etymology of how […]
When a horse requires protection from excessive foot abrasion, a simple horseshoe can do the trick. However, sometimes, a regular horseshoe is not enough to treat specific foot ailments. The “heart bar shoe” or “frog support shoe” is a versatile therapeutic application that offers relief to afflicted horses from a variety of conditions. Heart bar […]
Professional farriers demonstrate their work is a legitimate business by incorporating and following tax laws. As the business grows, farriers should take time to work on the business and not just in the business. They must protect their hard-earned income. This includes obtaining protective insurance and understanding exactly what is covered. Do you have business […]
Horses are unpredictable. They have minds of their own. There are so many ways horses can hurt you. They can react quickly and may jump, run, kick, strike, fall on and/or bite a person without warning. (As you gain experience, you will recognize changes in equine behavior that could become dangerous.) Workman’s Compensation insurance for […]
National Day of the Horse is observed every year on December 13. On November 18, 2004, United States Senate Resolution 452 recognized December 13 as the National Day of the Horse. The purpose of the day is to “encourage people of the United States to be mindful of the contribution of horses to the economy, history […]
During the winter months, a lot of horse owners opt to have shoes pulled and let horses go barefoot through the winter. This can be a good idea for many horses because they will not be used as much and shoes have a tendency to make snow build-up or “snowballing” worse in the bottom of […]
As the winter months set in, many horse owners have the question: is my horse warm enough? Do I need to blanket my horse? Understanding anatomy and physiology can help horse owners understand when a horse may or may not need a blanket. Some horse owners unwisely use the rule that when they feel cold, […]
By Doug Butler, PhD, CJF, FWCF We are often asked, “My daughter wants a horse. “What do I need to know about it?” Life is more enjoyable when we know what we are getting into. What are some of the considerations when buying a horse? Is it expensive? Are they dangerous? Does it build character […]
By Doug Butler, PhD, CJF, FWCF If you want to work with horses and the people who value them, farrier school may be the best opportunity for you. Becoming a farrier is a great career opportunity that is often overlooked in today’s horse industry. Farriers work for affluent people who have discretionary income and have […]
Tendon injuries can be devasting and career-ending for horses, depending on the severity of the damage and the availability of a knowledgeable veterinarian/farrier team. Horses have four major tendons in their lower legs. There are two extensor tendons in the front (common extensor and lateral extensor) and two flexor tendons in the back (superficial digital […]
Butler Professional Horseshoeing School
495 Table Road
Crawford, NE 69339
(800) 728-3826
jacob@dougbutler.com
If you think you want to become a farrier (or know someone who does), this book can help you make that decision. Horse owners will learn the importance of choosing a qualified farrier and how to select the “right” one.
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