AFA Certification Matt McMillan, Ph.D.

Certification O Consists of 3 categories: O Classification O Provides opportunity for entry level farriers O Certification O Center of the program O Endorsement O Provides opportunities for farriers who have completed highest level of certification

Certification O All levels are expected to demonstrate: O Hoof trimming skills O Skills to apply shoes and other appliances in exact prescriptions O Forging skills to modify shoes O Knowledge of anatomy and physiology

AFA Farrier Classification O Entry-level component O Not a pre-requisite for subsequent certification O Focuses on basic concerns O Safe, sound farriery O No time constraints O Elementary Forge work O Must complete written and practical testing O Horseshoe display

AFA Farrier Classification O Written Test 70% O Bones and Joints O Identify and locate O Hoof Structure O Knowledge of elastic and inelastic structures O Tendons and Ligaments O Common/Scientific Names O Functions and insertion of all tendons and ligaments

AFA Farrier Classification O Written Test 70% O Blood Circulation O Function of arteries, capillaries, and veins O Pathology O Recognizing factors associated with lameness O Horseshoes O Nail placement, design and function, features, function of heartbar shoe O Conformation, Gaits, and Physiology O All gaits, problems, and faults

AFA Farrier Classification O Practical Exam (2 parts) O Must Obtain 60% to Pass O A. Shoeing O Hands-on Performance Exam O Shoe 2 feet O Front pair or hind pair O Candidate must provide horse and handler O 1 ½ hour time limit

AFA Farrier Classification O A. Shoeing O Scoring in Three Parts O Hoof Preparation O Shoe preparation and Fit O Nailing, clinching, and finishing

AFA Farrier Classification O B. Horseshoe Display O Candidates bring O Examined and scored O Includes Timed Modifications O Oral/explanation/defense

Certified Farrier (AFA CF) O First Level of AFA Certification O Open to farriers with one year experience O Must Perform: O Written Exam 80% O Practical Exam 70% O 1 hour time limit O Horseshoe Display

Certified Tradesman Farrier (AFA CTF) O Second Level – Optional O Two Years Experience O Completed CF level O Written Exam 80% O Practical Exam 70% O Forging O ¾ Fullered, open heel shoe O Must fit pattern O 30 Minute Time Limit

Certified Journeyman Farrier (AFA CJF) O Highest Level O 2 years experience O Completed CF level O Must display: O In depth knowledge and highly developed skills O Requires: O Written Exam 80% O Practical Exam 70% O Forging of specific bar shoe within time limit O Shoe must fit pre-determined foot pattern

Specialty Endorsements O CJF have opportunity to continue education O Particular breeds O Disciplines O Veterinarians O Endorsements Include: O Therapeutic O Specialty Forging O Educational