Based in Staffordshire and Shropshire, United Kingdom, Marc Jerram has made a name for himself as a skilled farrier specialising in corrective cases and lameness issues. With over 25 years of experience, he’s not only a farrier but also an author, lecturer, and examiner, deeply involved in the equine industry from multiple perspectives.
“Being a farrier is both an art and a science,” Marc explains. He combines different technologies and data points to support him in his work.
“I use Sleip for upper body movements and vertical displacement, and combine it with hoofbeat IMU sensor analysis. This dual approach provides a comprehensive view of a horse's movements, allowing me to pinpoint issues effectively.”
For Marc, gait analysis is essential:
“As farriers, we can significantly influence hoof flight and contact, which directly impacts the horse’s overall movement and symmetry. By monitoring these factors over time, we can present data to veterinarians and original farriers that explain our interventions and their impact on the horse's performance.”
Marc stays updated on the latest research and techniques through various channels, including postgraduate education and continuous professional development events. “I completed a postgraduate degree in equine biomechanics and have witnessed firsthand the evolution of gait analysis technology. It’s vital to keep an eye on emerging tools and methods.”
According to Mark, clear communication among professionals leads to better horse care; collaboration is key.
“We often see a horse for just a couple of hours every 5 to 6 weeks. Communicating with the entire care team, including veterinarians and physiotherapists, is crucial. If I notice something concerning, I reach out directly to the vet rather than relying on the owner to pass on the message.
One common misconception Marc addresses is that farriery is easy:
“A well-trained farrier can appear to work effortlessly, but there’s a lot of thought and technique behind every trim and shoeing. It’s not just about nailing a shoe on; there’s a significant amount of skill and knowledge involved.”
Marc has a vital piece of advice for all horse owners:
“Treat laminitis with the same urgency as colic. It’s the second leading cause of death in horses, and many cases are preventable. The obesity crisis is a significant factor, and it’s crucial for owners to take proactive steps to prevent this condition.”
He emphasises that many laminitis cases stem from dietary issues or injuries leading to overload.
“A good 70% of laminitis cases could be avoided with proper management,” he states. “I wish every horse owner understood the importance of early intervention.”
In his practice, Marc frequently encounters abnormal loading and toe-first landings.
“These can be red flags for conditions like navicular syndrome or hoof pain,” he warns. “Using gait analysis, we can quantify these issues and address them effectively.”
Marc emphasises that shoeing can significantly impact a horse’s gait and performance.
“The right shoe can enhance traction and support proper posture. For horses that need heel support, a graduated frog support pad can be beneficial. Alignment is crucial; ensuring the pedal bone is positioned correctly within the hoof can alleviate many gait abnormalities.”
Small adjustments can have a profound effect on a horse’s comfort and performance:
“For horses with coffin joint arthritis, a slight modification to the shoe can redirect force during movement, making a substantial difference in their locomotion,” Marc explains. “Even simple changes, like adjusting the toe of a hind shoe, can improve movement significantly.”
When assessing a horse, Marc follows a systematic approach. He gathers information about the horse’s intended use and discipline, age, and the experiences of the owner. The turnout regime is a big factor as well, as it differs a lot; small areas or whole fields? Very muddy or dry? Soil quality and risk for thrush infections or bacterial infections? Understanding these factors helps him formulate a tailored trimming and shoeing plan.
He also considers the horse’s overall condition and confirms any abnormalities before proceeding with treatment.
One of Marc’s most challenging cases involved a horse with laminitis. The horse had toxic-induced laminitis due to improper feeding. Both pedal bones had penetrated the sole, and he just managed to salvage the situation with the help of the vet by using a cast.
However, complications arose when one foot began to separate, leading to significant concerns.
“We worked hard to restore the hoof, making use of glue-on shoes, and I’m pleased to report that the horse recovered and remains sound.”
Marc sees gait analysis tools like Sleip as valuable additions to his services:
“The user-friendly output helps clients understand the significance of the results, making it easier for them to see the benefits of our interventions. I charge clients for the insights gained from these tools, as they provide accurate, scientifically validated data,” he explains.
He shares his pricing strategy:
“I offer a package that includes gait analysis alongside other assessment tools, such as static and dynamic assessments of the hooves. For individual cases requiring follow-up, I charge separately, ensuring that clients receive comprehensive care tailored to their needs.”
As for the future of farriery, Marc envisions a blend of tradition and innovation. While he hopes to see an integration of advanced technologies in everyday practice, such as scanning hooves to create custom shoes on-site, he also worries about losing the craft of shoemaking.
“The profession has evolved significantly over the past two decades, and I believe farriers will increasingly use data to monitor and assess horses. But while technology enhances our capabilities, the need for skilled professionals remains.”
Working as a farrier is an intricate balance between skill, science, and compassion in caring for horses. Mark has found his niche in an evidence-based approach, collaboration with veterinary professionals, and proactive hoof care strategies. As Marc continues to navigate the evolving landscape of farriery, his commitment to improving horse health is absolute.
Marc Jerram has specialised in corrective farriery since qualifying as a farrier in 2006. Marc has published some 50 articles, lectures at a veterinary school, collaborates with local vet practices, and provides educational clinics for farriers, veterinarians, and horse owners. He is also the author of The Hoofcare Companion.
His journey into farriery began at a young age. Decades later, he´s still in the field he loves. Though he rides less frequently due to family commitments, Marc enjoys gentle hacking around the village. His passion for horses continues, fueled by his work and his pony-mad daughters.
I was inspired by the farriers working on my ponies. When I was still at school, I think I was about 14, we got sent out on a week's work experience. I went to work with a farrier and really enjoyed that week with him. And because I was lucky enough to keep working with him on Saturdays and school holidays. That hands-on experience gave me a head start before I even left school.
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