Full-time farriers have much more invested in their profession than the person who buys a pair of nippers and a rasp and sets out after work to knock out a few horses for extra cash. The professional farrier invests in a full inventory of quality supplies, pursues further education in farrier science and may be certified and belong to one or more farrier associations. In almost every case, he will be much more knowledgeable about his or her work than the part-timer. Finding this individual may be more difficult than calling the guy down the road, but will pay off in many ways. To start your search, check the classified ads in the horse section of your local paper.
Many farriers advertise their business there.
When you reach him, have prepared a list of questions regarding his business and expertise. Do not be shy about asking for his history working with horses, e.g., how long, what types of horses, and where he learned his profession. Those who apprentice usually work under a talented and well-established farrier, and the potential for learning is great in that situation. Also ask for references. The full-time farrier will have an extensive list of clients, either individual horse owners or barns, and should be willing to offer names for recommendations.