AFA CertificationMatt McMillan, Ph.D.
CertificationO Consists of 3 categories:
O ClassificationO Provides opportunity for entry level
farriers
O CertificationO Center of the program
O EndorsementO Provides opportunities for farriers who
have completed highest level of certification
CertificationO 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 componentO Not a pre-requisite for subsequent
certification
O Focuses on basic concerns O Safe, sound farrieryO No time constraintsO Elementary Forge work
O Must complete written and practical testingO Horseshoe display
AFA Farrier Classification
O Written Test 70%
O Bones and JointsO Identify and locate
O Hoof StructureO Knowledge of elastic and inelastic
structures
O Tendons and LigamentsO Common/Scientific NamesO Functions and insertion of all tendons and
ligaments
AFA Farrier Classification
O Written Test 70%
O Blood CirculationO Function of arteries, capillaries, and veins
O PathologyO Recognizing factors associated with lameness
O HorseshoesO Nail placement, design and function,
features, function of heartbar shoe
O Conformation, Gaits, and PhysiologyO All gaits, problems, and faults
AFA Farrier Classification
O Practical Exam (2 parts) O Must Obtain 60% to PassO A. Shoeing
O Hands-on Performance ExamO Shoe 2 feetO Front pair or hind pairO Candidate must provide horse and
handlerO 1 ½ hour time limit
AFA Farrier Classification
O A. ShoeingO Scoring in Three Parts
O Hoof PreparationO Shoe preparation and FitO Nailing, clinching, and finishing
AFA Farrier Classification
O B. Horseshoe DisplayO Candidates bring O Examined and scored O Includes Timed ModificationsO 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 limitO Horseshoe Display
Certified Tradesman Farrier (AFA CTF)
O Second Level – OptionalO Two Years ExperienceO Completed CF level
O Written Exam 80%O Practical Exam 70%O Forging
O ¾ Fullered, open heel shoeO Must fit patternO 30 Minute Time Limit
Certified Journeyman Farrier (AFA CJF)
O Highest LevelO 2 years experienceO 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 limitO Shoe must fit pre-determined foot pattern
Specialty Endorsements
O CJF have opportunity to continue educationO Particular breedsO DisciplinesO Veterinarians
O Endorsements Include:O TherapeuticO Specialty ForgingO Educational