Collins Farrier Services

Farrier in Washington, District of Columbia

(200) 555-5938225 Equestrian Way, Washington, DC 20001

About Collins Farrier Services

Collins Farrier Services is based in Washington, DC and offers some of the more specialized hoof care work available in the mid-Atlantic region, including hoof reconstruction, custom forge work, and navicular support shoeing. These services go well beyond routine shoeing and are often recommended by veterinarians when a horse's hoof health is seriously compromised. The DC area's mix of high-performance sport horses and older horses with chronic conditions means there's real demand for this level of expertise. Owners who've exhausted simpler options tend to find their way to providers like this one.

Services

Barefoot Trimming
Hoof Reconstruction
Custom Forge Work
Navicular Support Shoeing

Specialties

NavicularLaminitisDraft Horses

Certifications

AFA Certified FarrierMaster Farrier

Brands Used

Jim KeithDiamondHeller

Frequently Asked Questions

What is hoof reconstruction and when does a horse need it?
Hoof reconstruction involves using composite materials, often a dental acrylic or similar product, to rebuild sections of the hoof wall that have been lost to white line disease, cracks, or trauma. It's typically needed when there isn't enough sound hoof wall remaining to hold nails securely, and it gives the farrier a stable base to shoe from while the natural wall grows back.
How does navicular support shoeing work?
Navicular support shoeing uses shoe designs that shift how pressure is distributed across the hoof and reduce the load on the navicular bone and deep digital flexor tendon. Common modifications include rocker or rolled toes to ease breakover, egg bar or heart bar shoes to increase ground contact at the back of the foot, and raised heel wedges to alter the hoof-pastern axis.
Can a horse with navicular disease stay sound long-term with proper shoeing?
Many horses with navicular syndrome manage well for years with the right combination of shoeing, medication, and managed work, though outcomes vary depending on the severity of the condition and how early it was addressed. Regular farrier visits, consistent veterinary monitoring, and avoiding footing extremes all contribute to keeping these horses comfortable.
What's the difference between barefoot trimming and just pulling the shoes?
Barefoot trimming is an intentional approach that shapes the hoof specifically to function without a shoe, often following a particular methodology designed to mimic natural wear patterns. Simply pulling shoes without adjusting the trim for a barefoot lifestyle can leave the horse uncomfortable and prone to chipping or bruising, especially during the transition period.
Do I need a vet referral to book specialized farriery like navicular shoeing?
A vet referral isn't always required to book an appointment, but it's strongly recommended when dealing with a diagnosed condition like navicular syndrome. Having a diagnosis and ideally recent radiographs gives the farrier the information needed to design an appropriate shoeing plan rather than guessing at the underlying problem.
How long does custom forge work take compared to a standard shoeing?
Fabricating a custom shoe from bar stock adds significant time to an appointment since the farrier is shaping the shoe from scratch rather than modifying a pre-made one. Depending on complexity, a set of custom shoes can take two to three times as long as a standard shoeing, which is reflected in the cost and scheduling expectations.

Is this your business?

Claim your listing to update your info and connect with horse owners.

Claim This Listing

More Farriers

All farriers in Washington, DC →All farriers in District of Columbia →Browse all states →