ridecamp@endurance.net: [endurance] Fee For Farriers

[endurance] Fee For Farriers

HorseWorks@aol.com
Tue, 23 Jan 1996 20:58:23 -0500

Thanks for all the responses to my query of charging riders extra for a
farrier to be at rides. Many brought up valid information. Some suggested
that the farrier would be making a bundle if, say 50 to 100 riders entered.
This is not the case in this area and I failed to recognize that difference
when I queried. Our ride entries range from 10 to 30, making it difficult
for ride management to afford to pay a farrier. Many of the rides don't have
farriers. However, some of the riders are farriers or at least capable of
replacing a shoe and are always willing to help even if they are competing
themselves.

>From my view as a rider, I really appreciate it when there is a farrier on
the grounds. Although I take the usual precautions (having the horse shod
5-10 days in advance of the ride, carrying Easyboots -notice the plural-, and
having a couple of that particular horse's shoes in the trailer just in
case), a shoe can come loose despite our best efforts and the expense I
occured to get there would be thrown away if there was no farrier to help.

Anyway, I have retained a farrier for the ride for a fee, meals, and camping
fee, and at no extra expense to the riders. I think this is the best thing
to do, even if I have to dig into my pocket to pay. As a rider, I would be
grateful and more inclined to return to that ride that took my interests to
heart.
Once again, the responses were very enlightening. Thank you. GenieSS