Introduction to Farriery (Tan-Naghal)

Horse ownership in Malta is relatively high with owners who have horses for sports or as a personal hobby or as pets. One of the most important aspect when caring for a horse is appropriate care of the horse shoe since improper care can lead to hoof diseases and other problems which would ultimately impinge on the performance of the horse. This course provides an extensive overview of farriery, which is the science of horseshoe making, and the principles behind good shoeing. This course will give learners the necessary knowledge to understand the process of shoemaking so that they can appreciate better the importance of good hoof and shoe care.

This is a 28 hour course.  Lessons will be held as indicated on the prospectus and website.

This course will focus on the general introduction to farriery.  The course is designed to provide basic theories and knowledge related to farriery.

This  course  is aimed  to  introduce  the  trade  of   farriery  to  prospective apprentices and to spread the general  knowledge of  horseshoeing to horse  owners, attendants, riders, equine enthusiasts and all those involved in the horse business.  It also aims to eliminate bad work practices for the benefit of horses in the working environment, for leisure and for horses participating in competitive events

Learning Outcome 1: Outline the importance of primary hoof trimming and shoeing

Content

• Introduction to farriery,
• History of farriery,
• Structure of hoof,
• Identification of bones and cartilage,
• Foot anatomy,
• Hoof and farriery terminology

Learning Outcome 2: Differentiate between different types of shoeing for horses

Content

• Different shoes’ materials,
• Different types of shoes (when useful and effective, how to fit and why)
• Different shoes for different equine disciplines (racing, training, jumping, dressage, pulling work, etc.)
• Cold vs. hot shoeing

Learning Outcome 3: Recognize the need of traction requirements against turnouts on slippery surfaces

Content

• Methods of shoeing and procedure,
• Farrier’s tools selection,
• Clarification of road studs and distinct nails,
• Eliminating hoof interferences,
• Hoof gauges and hoof pastern angle,
• Toe, side and quarter alignment clips analysis

Learning Outcome 4: Describe the shoe procedures that must be undertaken when the horse’s hoof is diseased or injured

Content

• Hoof diseases- symptoms, diagnosis and treatment,

  • damage to the hoof and appropriate repair,
  • Rubber, plastic, shock absorbent, full or rim pads,
  • how to fit appropriate selection
  • Remedy/Corrective shoeing
  • Faulty shoeing and correctional measure

There are no entry requirements for this course.

An MCAST Certificate of Attendance will be issued, provided that students attend more than 80% of lectures.

There are no summative assessments in this course.

Any material required during the course should be provided by the student.