What is a Farrier?
In simple terms
A farrier is a specialist who trims, balances, and fits horseshoes to horses and other equines.
Farriers are trained in hoof anatomy, limb balance, biomechanics, and shoeing techniques. Their work supports comfort, structural alignment, and performance across a range of disciplines and lifestyles.
In the UK, farriery is regulated by law under the Farriers (Registration) Act 1975. Only individuals registered with the Farriers Registration Council may legally shoe horses.
This makes farriery one of the few animal professions with specific statutory protection.
Farriery is a skilled trade and regulated profession, not a veterinary service though farriers often work closely with vets.
How it’s used
Farriery services are typically designed to:
trim and balance hooves
apply horseshoes where required
support soundness and limb alignment
assist in managing conformational or performance needs
collaborate in remedial shoeing under veterinary guidance
Appointments usually take place every 4–8 weeks, depending on hoof growth and workload.
Where lameness or pathology is present, farriers work alongside veterinary surgeons to support the treatment plan.
What animals it’s appropriate for
Farriery is appropriate for:
Horses
Ponies
Donkeys
Other equines
The need for shoeing depends on workload, terrain, hoof quality, and veterinary advice.
What animals it’s not appropriate for
Farriery is not appropriate for:
diagnosing underlying medical conditions independently
treating lameness without veterinary involvement
emergency injury situations requiring clinical care
animals requiring sedation unless managed by a veterinarian
Veterinary care should always be prioritised where pain, infection, or injury is suspected.
What people often seek it for
Owners use farriers for reasons including:
routine hoof trimming
applying or replacing horseshoes
managing performance demands
addressing uneven wear
remedial shoeing under veterinary guidance
For many equine owners, a trusted farrier is central to long-term soundness and welfare.
What it’s not
Farriery is not:
veterinary diagnosis
a substitute for clinical assessment
an unregulated activity (in the UK)
optional where shoeing is required for welfare
Shoeing without registration is illegal in the UK.
Things to consider
When choosing a farrier, it’s helpful to:
confirm registration with the Farriers Registration Council
understand their experience with your discipline
ensure regular scheduling
maintain safe handling during visits
involve your vet if lameness arises
Legal registration provides an additional layer of professional accountability.
How to explore this safely
If you’re arranging farriery services:
establish a consistent trimming cycle
monitor movement after shoeing
communicate workload and changes
seek veterinary advice if soundness changes
prioritise calm, safe environments for appointments
For most equines, regular farriery is essential to comfort, balance, and long-term mobility.
Registered farriers may be listed in our directory. Providers are responsible for clearly stating their registration status and experience.
Important notice
Alternative Pet Health Scotland does not verify or accredit individual qualifications and holds no responsibility for the experience or capability of any person or business listed in this directory.
This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Always make choices appropriate to your animal and circumstances.