Course Curriculum
Your course curriculum for the National Institute of Farrier Science and Horseshoeing is comprehensive and detailed, covering a wide range of essential topics and practical skills. Here's a summary of the key components included in the curriculum:
1. Horsemanship & Horse Psychology: - Understanding horse behavior and psychology to work effectively with equine partners.
2. Equine Breeds and Aging: - Studying various equine breeds and learning methods to determine the age of a horse.
3. Safety and Evaluation: - Implementing safety rules and protocols while evaluating horses for hoof care.
4. Anatomy and Bones: - Exploring the anatomy of the entire horse, focusing on the bones of the front and hind limbs.
5. Hoof Structures: - Understanding the intricate structures of horse hooves for proper care and maintenance.
6. Tools and Equipment: - Selection and use of tools, including shoe and nail sizes, brands, and styles for effective hoof care.
7. Hoof Problems and Solutions: - Identifying and addressing various hoof problems, such as cracks, splits, and lameness issues.
8. Nailing Techniques: - Mastering the art of driving and clinching nails to secure horseshoes correctly.
9. Corrective Shoeing: - Learning techniques for corrective shoeing, including bonding, pad application, and glue-on shoe options.
10. Lameness Evaluation: - Evaluating lameness in horses and addressing hoof-related issues to improve soundness.
11. Travel Issues and Corrections: - Addressing traveling problems in horses and implementing corrective measures for better movement.
12. Blacksmithing and Forge Work: - Hands-on training in gas forge work and blacksmithing for hot, cold, corrective, and handmade shoe production.
13. Shoe Making Techniques: - Crafting shoes tailored to individual horse hooves, including shaping, fitting, and modification processes.
14. Hot and Cold Shoeing: - Distinguishing between hot and cold shoeing methods, with a focus on shaping and modifying shoes for proper fit and function. This curriculum combines theory with practical experience, incorporating your own documented cases and real-world examples to enhance students' learning. By providing a comprehensive education in farrier science and horseshoeing, the National Institute will equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the industry.