Our customers may not be aware but Ride-Away originated as a Farriery business.
Whilst Stephen retired as a farrier in 1996 to work in Ride-Away full time, our son Richard continues the tradition with his own business.
We thought these few tips might be helpful – and interesting for you!
Make sure you give him plenty of notice. He has a huge workload to plan, and whilst he will always try to deal with genuine emergencies, remember you aren’t the only client on his list.
Book in with accurate details of what you need doing so he can advise the next customer what time to expect him – and also make sure he has the right equipment with him, such as studs, specials shoes, pads etc.
Be prepared. Make sure the horses are clean, tied up and ready for him to get started straight away. He won’t appreciate waiting whilst you drag them out of a muddy field. He will probably prefer a good level surface, with plenty of light – but not out in the blazing mid day sun!
Train your horse to pick its feed up! It may sound obvious, but make sure your horse is used to holding its feet up and standing on three legs! It’s not the farrier’s job to train young animals either.
Listen to any advice he has to offer on the conditions of your horse’s feet - and heed it.
Pay him! Don’t wait for him to have to ask for payment. Paying quickly will keep him happy and a sure way of getting him back if you should need him in a rush.
And some definite DO NOTS!
ring him late at night when he’s just got knocked off and tucking into his supper.
bore him to death with what you and your horse are up to. He’s probably not interested!
leave him to manage on his own if your horse is nervous or excited.
DO NOT
Feed your horse with a hay net or scoop of feed whilst he is being shod. Would you like oats or hay being dropped down your neck whilst bent over his foot!
Ignore his advice. If he says your horse has laminitis and needs taking off the grass - then do it!
Forget your hospitality. Offer your farrier a cold drink or a cup of coffee. Remember farriers work long hours and are out on the road all day. He will really appreciate this.