Elements and Performance Criteria
- Examine an equine and condition of its feet
- Observe equine gait and conformation to identify common faults and defects or signs of lameness
- Use safe handling techniques and restrain equines in a way that reduces stress and alarm and minimises risk to the equine and handlers
- Adopt a working position that maintains the comfort and safety of the equine, the farrier and assistants
- Use appropriate tools to safely remove shoes and clean hoof of debris
- Examine the shoes and assess the wear pattern for further trimming and shoeing
- Report any conditions requiring higher level treatment by a veterinarian or other specialist
- Change the shoeing plan if the condition of the feet warrants
- Trim and prepare feet
- Trim and prepare feet to achieve balance, level and shape, and to correctly identify foot defects without injury to the feet of the equine
- Monitor work to ensure foot preparation meets quality outcomes
- Select tools needed to fit shoes
- Select the type and size of shoe, and modify to fit individual equine hoof
- Shape shoes to incorporate any extra functionality identified in shoeing plan
- Fit shoes and assess the need for any final adjustments
- Make final adjustments to the shape and size of the shoe
- Attach shoes and finish shoeing process
- Select suitable tools and nails for attaching and finishing the job
- Attach shoe safely, securely and in the correct position
- Finish the hoof and check the welfare of the equine
- Check correct fit of shoe by inspecting the shoe with feet on and off the ground and trotting the equine
- Identify any signs of lameness by walking and/or trotting the equine
- Advise clients, carers or other specialists of actions taken and future foot care requirements
- Maintain service records according to workplace procedures
- Dispose of waste material safely according to workplace hygiene and biosecurity procedures