Minnesota School of Horseshoeing

INTRODUCTION AND STATEMENT OF PURPOSE

MSH is a private vocational school offering you the finest in farrier education. Horseshoeing is evolving into a professional occupation and our farrier program is designed to provide an alternative to the mechanical trade concept of shoeing horses. Our purpose is to prepare you with technical and business skills you will need to serve our growing horse industry. It has been clearly demonstrated that the early development and success of the beginning farrier is significantly influenced by the quality of his or her initial educational experience. Most importantly to you, the professional orientation of MSH assures you of practical knowledge, skills, and attitudes you can effectively use to build your reputation as a respected farrier. Along with your interest and motivation, we can achieve that worthwhile objective; insist on the best for yourself.

The course of study has been developed with you in mind. Education is our business, and we can help you become what you are capable of being without limiting your aspirations. You will have an opportunity to study and learn with plenty of hands on experience, and be in an educational setting that is designed to provide you with knowledge and skills that will put you in demand. We are genuinely interested in your success as a student of this school, so you get more value and education; don't settle for less. Limited enrollment assures you of ample one-to-one instruction that is thorough and professional. You will have an unlimited number of good horses to work with, providing you with valuable confidence, knowledge, and experience you will benefit from upon graduation.

The school is housed in a well maintained, modern building. Our shop is fully equipped and designed with ample room for shoeing horses, and working at forges. The classroom and offices are electrically heated and carpeted for your comfort. The school is conveniently located near the City of Anoka, with plenty of off campus housing readily available.

When you think about horses, think about Minnesota. Minnesota is horse country as well as lake country. Rated 10th in the nation, Minnesota has more horses (236,000) than many states with a horse reputation. Minnesota is the home of many national and international horses and horsemen, plus home of Canterbury Park, the most modern horse racing facility in the country. Minnesota: a lake state, an education state, a horse state; we have it all. The cultural and entertainment center of Minneapolis-St. Paul is just twenty minutes away. We are in the center of great horse country and Minnesota's famous lakelands. Please accept my invitation to visit us and inspect our facilities.

The school is licensed by the Minnesota Higher Education Services Office. Your instructor holds a Bachelor of Science degree in adult vocational education, and is licensed to teach in the State of Minnesota. He is a certified farrier at the highest level awarded by the American Farriers Association. Richard is active in several farrier organizations and is a certified farrier instructor by the Registry of Professional Educators.

We are approved for Veteran's educational benefits, and other state funding for those who qualify.

As a student of this school, your educational foundation is not limited by the experiences of only one individual. Our advisory board of highly respected farriers and veterinarian, keep us current with the latest advances in horseshoeing. Their input effectively closes the gap between educational idealism and actual practice in the real world. That means you'll have the advantage of providing your customers with the best in technical developments and know how.

Farrier Program

20% Lecture, 80% Laboratory

INTRODUCTION AND STATEMENT
OF EDUCATIONAL PHILOSOPHY

The horse industry is expanding at a steady rate, and this growth trend in the horse population is expected to continue. From a practical standpoint, these horses are used for pleasure riding, showing, and sports entertainment; all require the hoof care of a trained farrier. The demand for competent horseshoers remains strong.

Along with increasing sophistication and demands of the horse industry, professional farriers must be trained to provide an optimum service which allows horses to perform to their fullest potential. The athlete and performance horse of today must be accurately balanced and shod to assure maximum performance, and maintain soundness of limb. The lame horse must be properly shod to help promote healing of injury and disease. Horseshoeing is no longer a matter of shoeing horses simply to protect hooves from excessive wear. It is the responsibility of every horseshoer to see that the horses in his care are shod in a manner that is conductive to the health, comfort, and safety of the horse, as well as the safety of the rider. At MSH you spend your time on things you need to know to successfully practice the art and science of horseshoeing today.

In view of these facts, a thorough education of the horseshoer in the principles and practice of his profession is really essential to his success. And that's what we provide you with. Prospective students of horseshoeing should be in good physical condition, have a liking for the work, have an appreciation for horse, have a good eye for proportion, and recognize the physical demands of the occupation. You are invited to visit the school (when possible) and interview with the instructor prior to starting class.

The Farrier Science Program is a ten week, complete course designed to provide you with entry level skills in the art and science of horseshoeing. Together with the optional apprenticeship program this is the most comprehensive source of its kind offered by a private institution in the United States. The primary purpose of this in-depth approach is to prepare students who wish to practice horseshoeing professionally. Because of the great responsibility farriers have to the well being of horses, and the high degree of skill necessary to success, it is our sincere desire to develop technical excellence and instill strong professional attitudes in our graduates. We recognize that not all students may have this professional goal as their personal objective; however, we do require that all students demonstrate progress in the development of their academic and physical skills.

The areas of study include the anatomy and conformation of the horse with special emphasis on the lower limb, corrective shoeing, shoeing the lame horse, and forging operations you will use in your own practice. In addition to this course of study, our interest includes general horsemanship and horse handling, and horse owner interests and activities. As a result of this course of study you will be able to:

1. Communicate useful and practical knowledge and information related to farrier science.
2. Physically perform the skills at the forge and under the horses.
3. Demonstrate acceptable attitudes and responsibilities toward the profession.
4. Satisfy the requirements of the American Farriers Association farrier certification examination.

COURSE OUTLINE

COURSE OF STUDY - DETAILS

Unit I.    Introduction to the Course      2 Hours Lecture

An overview of the course content will be discussed. You will learn what competencies will be expected, and what competencies you may expect from the instructor. You will gain an understanding of the school operating procedures, which will better prepare you to meet your objectives. The philosophy and responsibilities of the horseshoer will be discussed so that you will be better able to determine what you may expect to accomplish during the course. Horseshoeing is a viable, life long career, as well as a healthy and satisfying life style. The occupational opportunities as a professional farrier are excellent, and we will discuss how you can maximize your success potential.

Unit II.    Anatomy of the Limb      8 Hours Lecture

Anatomy is the basic building block of horseshoeing. A practical understanding of the physical structures, particularly of the lower limb, is essential to your work as a farrier. You will be able to identify and list the structures of the limb. You'll be able to judge the relationship and the quality of the structures of the limb and hoof to help you determine the best method of trimming and shoeing to meet the needs of each horse.

Unit III.    Functions of the Physical Structures of the Limb      3 Hours Lecture

The position, direction, and flight of the limbs are greatly influenced by the anatomical formation of the structures. You will earn the functions of the structures of the limb and hoof. You'll be able to describe the functions of each, and understand why changes in their relationship to each other, caused by internal or external factors, may cause faults in the gait, injury, and disease. Of particular interest and importance to you, the effect of shoeing on the form and health of the foot is fully discussed.

Unit IV.    Conformation of the Horse      8 Hours Lecture

The skeletal and muscular makeup (conformation) of the horse is the key factor which determines what can be accomplished by shoeing horses. As a student of MSH, you will be able to recognize and develop a standard as to what constitutes desirable conformation in horses, and why. You'll be able to describe faults in conformation by your careful observation of the horse, which provides the basis for your shoeing rationale. In particular, you will be able to identify faults in the position of the limbs and deviations in the form, or shape of the hooves; practical knowledge you can put to work for you - and help horses.

Unit V.    Breeds of Horses and Conformation      2 Hours Lecture

Farriers need to know the differences in conformation of the various breeds. You will develop an understanding of why differences in conformation allow horses to perform their specific athletic activities.

Unit VI.    Forge Work and Hand Turned Shoes      8 Hours Lecture - 75 Hours Lab.

Successful farriers agree proficiency at the forge is an essential and integral skill of the occupation. At MSH, forging is taught as the basic technology through which you may maintain or restore the physiological functions and normal form of the foot, to the great benefit of horses. It is a technology that exists, is valid, and is measurable.

You will gain experience in the use of the coal and gas forge, and the correct use of hand tools. You'll gain experience in working steel at forging temperatures, and the techniques used to make hand turned shoes from bar stock. Some of the horseshoes you'll make include plain plates, square toe shoes, reining plates, weighted shoes, shoes with heels, trailers, and clips, bar shoes, and others. You'll also learn forge brazing and forge welding in addition to gas and arc welding. Further, you may concentrate on any specialty shoes and shoeing you may be interested in. You will gain an appreciation for the value of hand turned shoes, and have plenty of opportunity to develop your skills at the forge. All shoes are made for practical purposes, and you'll have the satisfaction of nailing your shoes on live horses. You do not have to simulate anything.

Unit VII.    Principles of Hoof Reduction      4 Hours Lecture

Trimming hooves to go barefoot, or preparing hooves for shoeing involves much more than simply removing surplus horn. Accurate hoof reduction to balance the foot is truly the art of the farrier. You will learn to use the hoof trimming tools with skill and precision. You'll gain an understanding of the principles and objectives of hoof reduction, and practice developing your skills by working with good horses at leading stables. We provide a regular farrier service to these stables just as you will do in your own practice. All of the horses you work with are trimmed and shod for practical purposes; you don't have to simulate anything. Working with mainstream horses in the horse world, you'll gain confidence and valuable experience in correct and safe methods of horse handling.

Unit VIII.    Fundamentals of Normal Shoeing      6 Hours Lecture

Horses are shod for all kinds of reasons and uses. All must be shod in a way that maintains the normal movements of the foot and maintains the normal form of hooves. You will learn methods of shoeing that contribute to the overall health of hooves, and reduce the potential for lameness. You'll learn how to select the correct size and length of bar stock to make shoes which properly fit normal hooves that have been trimmed and dressed. You will be able to nail and finish your work by using the prescribed methods and tools. You'll develop your ability and skill by working with an unlimited number of good horses. Your learning experiences are further enhanced by having horses available to you on a one-to-one basis. That means you won't have down time while sharing horses with others. You get to do it all, and enjoy the satisfaction of completing your own work.

Unit IX.    Corrective Shoeing      15 Hours Lecture - 190 Hours Lab.

In a practical sense, all horses require corrective shoeing. Show horses, pleasure horses, trail horses, the equine athlete; all must be balanced in accordance with individual conformation and direction of their limbs. Truly, the art and professional domain of the farrier is best demonstrated by his or her ability to accurately shoe and balance horses. Balancing horses for optimum performance and soundness is the ultimate purpose of the occupation, and receives the major emphasis of this course. As a student, you'll learn how to judge the positions the limbs the feet may assume in horses. You'll develop the ability to trim and dress hooves to compensate for faults in position of the limb. You'll learn the uses of the most advanced methods of corrective shoeing, and how these measures influence the stance and flight of the limbs. You will be able to select and apply the proper corrective shoes to obtain the desired result.

Unit X.    Shoeing for Injury and Disease      12 Hours Lecture - 60 Hours Lab.

A chief aim of shoeing horses is, of course, to prevent lameness. The familiar saying, "no foot, no horse," takes on special meaning when it comes to horseshoeing. Certain types of conformation and use relationships may predispose horses to injury and disease of the lower limb. Working together with a veterinarian, you will be able to recognize lameness by physical examination and your careful observation of the horse's movements. You will demonstrate your skill by selecting and applying pathological shoes according to the veterinarian's prescription. Giving horses relief from pain and being part of the healing process is a rewarding and deeply satisfying experience of your work.

Unit XI.    Manufactured Horseshoes      2 Hour Lecture

Making the work of horseshoeing easier, manufacturers are producing an increasing variety of styles and specialty shoes. You will learn to prepare and nail on factory shoes. Using your forging skills, you will be able to take advantage of the convenience of factory shoes. You'll be able to increase the use of factory shoes by modifying them for corrective and pathological purposes. You'll be able to recognize the various brands and types of manufactured shoes available.

Unit XII.    Professional Attitudes and Public Relations      5 Hours Lecture

Horseshoeing is really a people business. Marketing your skills through good public relations plays an important role in your success. You will be able to demonstrate your ability to handle horses by your patient, understanding (horse sense) approach to your work. As a farrier, you must recognize that you have a great responsibility to ensure that your horse handling and your work are in the best interest of the horse. More importantly, horse owners and trainers must share that belief, and have confidence in you. You'll be able to demonstrate desirable attitudes toward the horse, owners, and others that are considered acceptable and advocated by established members of the profession. You will be able to identify your objectives, and write your own personal plan to conduct your business affairs.

Apprenticeship Program (Optional)      400 Hours or more

Working on a one-to-one basis with a practicing farrier is a great way to help you warm into the business, and gives you an excellent opportunity to develop and polish your skills under professional guidance. The apprenticeship program is open to students who are interested and able to take advantage of this valuable experience. It is recommended that students plan to take advantage of this free service, particularly if you have a shoeing specialty in mind. There are no fees or charges, nor is participation in the program a requirement of graduation.

SCHOOL TUITION, FEES, AND OTHER CHARGES

REGISTRATION FEE: A registration fee of $100.00 must accompany all applications. This fee becomes a payment on tuition when the student is accepted by the school. It is not an additional fee. The registration fee is refunded in full if the student is not accepted by the school.

TUITION SCHEDULE

10 week Farrier Program, 400 Instruction Hours           $4,900.00 (tuition payable first day of class). After June, 2008 tuition will be $5,000.00.

Books and Tools           Approximately $1250.00

9 to 12 weeks, Apprenticeship Program, Optional 400 Hours      No Fee

Books and Tools are available at the school store.

GENERAL INFORMATION AND SCHOOL POLICIES

ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS: Anyone, 18 years of age or older, with a desire to learn may apply for admission. A high school diploma is not required. Credit will be granted for previous education and training. When credit is granted the cost of the course will be reduced in amount equal to the amount of credit granted. Having some horse experience is desirable, but is not a requirement for admission.

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS: This school is authorized under Federal law to enroll non-immigrant students. For further information, please contact the school.

ENROLLMENT: Enrollment applications must be received by the school seven days prior to the beginning of class. A registration fee of $100.00 must accompany all applications. Each student will be notified in writing of his or her acceptance by the school. In the event the student is not accepted by the school, all tuition, fees, or other charges will be refunded. Enrollment is limited to 12 students per class, giving you an ideal student teacher ratio.

CLASS SCHEDULE: Classes are offered 4 times each year. Class meets 7:30 AM to 3:30 PM, Monday through Friday.

Observed Holidays: New Year's Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and the Friday following, Christmas Day and the weekday before and following.

ATTENDANCE: Regular attendance is required for all scheduled classes, and is important to the development of your skill. Legitimate absences may be made up by making arrangements with your instructor. Excessive absences or tardiness may be the basis for student termination. Any student missing three classes will be allowed to continue only with the approval of the instructor.

STUDENT PROGRESS: All students must maintain a passing or satisfactory grade while attending school. A passing grade is considered to be a "C" or above. Grades are based on your honest efforts, and a continuum of your developing skills at the forge and under horses.

PROGRESS REPORTS: As a tenet of our educational concept, we feel strongly that you have the need and the right to know your standing at any time. Progress reports are issued at regular intervals. Students who may be having difficulty will have plenty of opportunity to obtain extra help. We take you seriously, and we want you to succeed. Chronic failure to meet school standards may be the basis for student termination. Students who withdraw, or are terminated, may re-enroll by making proper application. In the event termination does occur, refunds will be made in accordance with our refund policy as stated in this catalog.

STUDENT CONDUCT: Students are expected to be a credit to themselves, and the school. Any student may be dismissed for violations of school rules, or for conduct that reflects unfavorably on the reputation or safe operation of the school.

DIPLOMA: A diploma or certificate of completion is awarded to each student who successfully completes the course requirements.

PLACEMENT: Farriers enjoy the independence of being self-employed professionals. Therefore, no placement service is offered by the school.

HOUSING AND TRANSPORTATION: We can make housing arrangements for you before you arrive. The school is located in a quiet area close to all the conveniences of the city, with plenty of private housing available to meet your needs. The average rent for a room is $100.00 week.

If you don't have a vehicle while you are here, we can make arrangements for your transportation needs. We will also meet you at the airport, bus station, or train depot. We make you feel at home.

COMPLAINTS: Complaints are to be brought to the attention of the executive secretary. After appropriate internal investigation, action will be taken. In the event of unsuccessful resolution the student has the right to contact the office of MHESO.

REFUND POLICY

a. The registration fee is refunded in full, if the student is not accepted by the school.

b. Any student may cancel his or her enrollment any time, before or after classes begin by submitting a written notice of cancellation to the school. The written notice of cancellation will be effective on the date the notice of cancellation is postmarked, or in cases where the notice is hand carried, on the date the notice is delivered to the school.

c. The school will acknowledge every valid notice of cancellation in writing, within ten business days after the receipt of such notice. Any refund due a student shall be paid within thirty business days of receipt by the school of a valid notice of cancellation of enrollment.

d. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary, and regardless of whether the course of instruction has started, the school will refund all tuition, fees, or other charges paid by the student, if the student gives written notice of cancellation within five business days after the date on which the student is accepted by the school. The date of acceptance of the student is the date of delivery of the notice of acceptance and if delivered by mail, the postmark date of the letter of acceptance.

e. When a student has been accepted by the school, and gives written notice of cancellation following the fifth business day after the date of acceptance by the school, but before the course of instruction begins, all tuition, fees, and other charges, except the $100.00 registration fee, will be refunded to the student.

f. After the start of the course of instruction, but before completion of 75% of the course, unused tuition paid will be refunded to the student on a pro rata basis for days attended upon termination of enrollment. The student, therefore, pays tuition only through the last day of recorded attendance. Students who complete 75% or more of the course are not eligible for a refund.

g. This refund policy is not conditional upon compliance with the school's rules of conduct.

h. The word "STUDENT" shall be constructed to mean the student himself or herself, or the student's parents or guardian or another person, if the parent or guardian or other person is the party to the contract on behalf of the student.

i. For Veterans only. The school may keep a $10 registration fee. All tuition fees and other charges will be refunded on a pro rated basis to the date of discontinuance of training.

Farrier Program Schedule for the year 2008:

March 24 - May 30

June 9 - August 15

September 8 - November 14

Farrier Program Schedule for the year 2009:

January 5 - March 13

March 23 - May 29

June 8 - August 14

September 14 - November 20

Farrier Program Schedule for the year 2010:

January 4 - March 12

March 22 - May 28

June 7 - August 13

September 13 - November 19

Horseowners: We offer a 2 week class the first 2 weeks of our regular program. Please call for information.

Are you ready to start your new career as a farrier? Take the first step right now, by completing the Enrollment Form.

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