“Your Horse is a Saint (Until the Farrier Shows Up)”

Dennis Cappel
May 26
2 min read

“Your Horse is a Saint (Until the Farrier Shows Up)”

A Farrier’s Unfiltered Take on Hoof Hysteria - By Dennis Cappel, Master Horseman

From the Barn Aisle | Guest Column by A Very Tired Farrier

Let’s talk perspective. To horse owners, their four-legged friend is a majestic angel, a spiritual guru, and part-time therapist rolled into one. He’s perfect. He nuzzles gently. He “just knows” when you’re sad.

But when your farrier arrives? Suddenly, that gentle soul turns into a 1,200-pound toddler having a full-blown tantrum in the cereal aisle.

“He’s usually not like this,” you say. We know. He saves it just for us.

Respect is Trained—Not Telepathic

Farriers (and vets, bless them) often walk into a situation where a horse has never been properly handled. No groundwork. No training to stand still. No clue that picking up a hoof is not a war crime. And we’re somehow expected to trim, rasp, and shoe this uncooperative beast while dodging head-butts and impromptu yoga moves.

Let me be honest: I'm writing this after being towed across the barn like a reluctant sled dog. So yes, I have opinions.

My Modest Proposal:

Before you’re allowed to own a horse, you should be required to:

Trim one hoof
Administer one injection

That’s it. Just once. For the experience. It’d solve half the problems in the barn—and possibly in Congress, too. Because the “discipline drought” we’re dealing with doesn’t stop with horses. It’s everywhere.

In Conclusion (Before I Get Kicked Again)

I love horses. I really do. But if you want professionals to keep loving their jobs, your horse needs to show up like he’s had some preparation. We’re not here to tame wild stallions—we’re here to work with partners. Preferably ones who don’t try to sit on us.

Thanks for coming to my TED Talk. Or rather, my “Tired Equine Discussion.”

Because nothing is funnier—or more painful—than the truth.

Mindful Riding,

Dennis Cappel - Master Horseman

www.cappeltrainingandshoeng.com