How much of your day/week is related to horses?
I’ve just returned to work from maternity leave so I do half days 3-4 day a week at the moment trimming, in addition to the care of my own horses.
What is it exactly that you do?
I’m a barefoot trimmer, so I trim horses from all walks of life – from paddock ornaments to laminitic rehab and even performance horses. I also specialise in fitting hoof boots and I dabble a little in glue on shoes. I also offer advice on diet and have the skills to recognise health issues that need to be referred on to a vet or body worker. I’m part of a team caring for the horse – its a holistic approach.
In this field of work, is it possible to be a full time professional and earning a liveable income?
Oh, definitely! It’s hard work, yes. But so rewarding; certainly pays the bills.
What are the general steps taken to be employed in such a role?
There are a few courses out there available these days. I did the Diploma of Equine Podiotherapy, which is a two year course. I recommend that course, or any course where the focus is on anatomy and biomechanics.
Favourite horse memory?
I’ve owned horses since I was 12, there are so many memories. But the one that comes to mind right now is when I first moved out of home onto acreage and brought my horse home from agistment. I remember looking out my kitchen window and he was trotting about the paddock, this big orange thoroughbred and I remember feeling so happy at having my horse at home with me.
Future goals?
I’m currently studying a bachelor in Equine Science, so getting that finished is a main priority and goal for the next 5 years. Eventually I want to set up a hoof rehab facility – there are so many horses out there suffering and their owners need extra support to get their equine partners back to full soundness – that’s where I want my business to go.
Best thing about your sport/profession?
Trimming a near crippled horse and within a trim or two (or even immediately) watching them trot off sounder and happier. Receiving text messages from clients saying “Charlie has never been sounder!” or “Missy strode out over the gravel driveway like it was nothing today!”. Having loyal clients that rely on you to keep their horses sound, healthy and happy. And the everyday satisfaction of looking at a nice, neat trimmed hoof that you have been caring for over the years with big fat frogs and nice thick soles and knowing you’ve helped to craft that. I just love the job.
“No foot, no horse.” – Author unknown
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