Education of a Certified Farrier Through the American Farriers Association By Dana Shah Bishop Daniel Bishop is a graduate of the Eastern School of Farrier Science and is an American Farriers Association (AFA) Certified farrier. He is currently studying for his Journeyman Certification, which that he will take later this year. His goal is to one day open a Farrier’s School. As part of his certification, Daniel had to make a variety of shoes via specification of the AFA and the examiner, On his Certified Farrier Shoe Board, the shoes consist of 11 modifications: Bar Shoe, Rolled Toe, Rocker Toe, Square Toe, Toe Clip, Quarter Clips, Extended heels, Trailer, two Traction Devices and a useable nail hole. In addition to making the shoes, the certification test consisted of 100 questions and a practical shoeing of a horse. Daniel believes that AFA certification is a very important for everyone in the farrier industry because the AFA certification program sets a high standard of education and continuing education. Daniel attends a minimum of 50 hours of continuing education each year, and he has a strong interest in Therapeutic issues. Earlier this year Daniel hosted a "Hammer In," attended by a number of farriers in the area including: Guy Buck, Greg Speltz, John Logan, JJ Bryant, Richard Peele, Harold Elder and Stacy Steward, Joe Hillman, Mike Ward, plus a few out of town farriers. The event was held at the Blues City Warmbloods stable near Arlington, TN. At the Hammer In, farriers demonstrated and discussed several topics. Casting of the hoof was demonstrated by Guy Buck and Brazing Jar Caulks was demonstrated by Daniel Bishop. Daniel is hoping that all the farriers can get together for a Hammer In every three months to discuss new techniques, therapy issues and forging. Daniel is also hoping to start a Farrier’s Organization for the mid-south area.