For the second year in a row, Colorado Horse Rescue (CHR) welcomed the Rocky Mountain Farrier Association (RMFA) for an intensive two-day farrier clinic on January 17th and 18th. The event featured renowned farrier and clinician Dusty Franklin, founder of Five Star Horseshoeing School in Oklahoma, who shared his expertise with aspiring farriers and veterinary students.
Hands-On Learning: Forging and Anatomy
Despite a winter storm, more than 70 people, veterinary students from Colorado State University (CSU) and future farriers, gathered in CHR’s indoor arena to deepen their understanding of equine hoof care. The clinic covered essential topics such as conformation, joint alignment, limb balance, and bone structure. Day one focused on hands-on practice, allowing participants to refine their skills with a forge and explore the techniques of hot shoeing.
The Importance of Education in Farriery
On Saturday, Dusty Franklin emphasized the significance of anatomical knowledge in professional hoof care. “If you want to be a professional, you need to be looking at the anatomy,” he told attendees. “Today, everyone can get tools at Tractor Supply and be a farrier, but you need to be a professional.”
Jake Maestas, president of the RMFA, highlighted the organization’s mission to support farrier education in the absence of an official certification system. “Our goal is to create opportunities for learning,” he said. Throughout the year, RMFA offers clinics and training sessions on American Farrier’s Association (AFA) shoeing standards.
CHR is proud to support RMFA by providing a space for hands-on learning and professional development in farriery. We are committed to fostering education and collaboration within the equine community to ensure the highest standard of care for horses.