I am a second generation, American Farriers Association Certified Journeyman Farrier located in Goochland County, VA. I have a passion for the farrier trade and the horses that I spend my days with. My approach to hoof care varies from traditional farrier methods to cutting edge therapeutic shoeing depending on the needs of the individual horse. Many of the horseshoes that I use are handmade, allowing for a custom approach and fit to each individual hoof. I believe that excellent farriery begins with a base knowledge of anatomy and biomechanics, traditional farrier fundamentals, and a proper and sound trim. As such, I continually strive to improve these areas in my practice and apply them to the best of my ability on every hoof that I address, be it the hoof of a champion, brood mare, trail horse, or pasture ornament.
I believe it takes a team for a horse and rider to reach their potential and that communication is key within a team environment. It's important to me to keep an open and honest dialogue with my clients, their vets, and their trainers to maintain the best interest and success of the equine athlete. I serve on the board of directors for the Virginia Horseshoers Association and am a current member of the American Farriers Association as well as an approved tester for the American Farriers Association Certification program. I am a current member and frequent competitor with the World Championship Blacksmiths. I am also a charter member of the International Farrier Syndicate and Synergy Farrier Products. |
My approach to farriery is simple. Do only what must be done to maintain comfort, athletic success, and long term soundness. The reality behind my approach is far less simple. I believe that it takes a constant drive for knowledge and ability to best serve the horses that I work with. I have been fortunate to have known many great farriers over the years and the one common trait that they all share is a consistent drive to become better for the horse. Therefore, I am a frequent attendee at both hands on clinics and theory lectures. I travel extensively to attend these clinics as well as to spend time with other farriers. I utilize farrier competitions as a way to hone my skills at the anvil as well as an opportunity to gather with what I consider some of the best farriers in the world on a regular basis. I also have an "open door" policy in my truck in that I allow anyone, mostly less experienced farriers, to ride along and learn from my experience. I enjoy passing on my knowledge to others as a way to give back to the industry that has done so much for me.
I hold the Certified Journeyman Farrier certification through the American Farriers Association, the highest certification available in the United States and I strive every day to maintain a standard deserving of that title. |
Shoeing the Equine Athlete.Maintaining soundness, comfort, and athletic advantage for the equine athlete is at the forefront of my practice. The majority of my work falls within the English disciplines with a focus on the event, dressage, and show hunter horse. But with a foundation of equine anatomy, traditional farrier theory and a steady drive for more knowledge, I have built a practice that is well suited for any equine athlete.
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Therapeutic/Maintenance ShoeingWhether helping a young horse overcome a conformational issue, bringing an injured athlete back to soundness, or caring for a retired loved one through the aches and pains of their geriatric years, I work closely with you, your vet, and your horse to plan and apply the most beneficial shoeing or trimming protocol using either hand made traditional methods or cutting edge commercially available products.
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