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course feedback
Bywong ACT Courses Oct 10-15
I really enjoyed the course and by the end of it I felt
much more confident about tackling my horses feet. It gave me
concrete information about just what to do and what not to do
and David was very approachable and informative.
Say a big thank you to him,
Wendy Eddey
I would like to say thank you for both the course at Oberon in which
I was an observer and also the course at Bywong in which I brought
two horses. The result of having attended these two courses is that
I now feel confident enough to trim the pony - usually costs me
$45- for two and a half minutes work. While I am not yet confident
in shoeing my horse, I do feel that I can trim her feet ready for
the farrier. If there is a future course in Bywong or close by,
I would certainly like to attend again with my horse. Again,
many thanks
Barb
I enjoyed the Hoof Care Course at Bywong very much. I am now much
more confident about trimming and balancing my horses's feet.
My horses are all barefoot so I was only trimming, but I still found it interesting
to observe other students learning to correctly shoe their horses.
I found that I had been leaving the toes way too long on my horses
and also cutting their heels too low. I took my young grand-daughter's
horse to the course with me as he had a bad crack in his off hind
foot (almost to the coronet). David showed us how to clean out
the crack and then he filled it for me. You would not now know
the crack had been there unless you look very closely - great
job!
I would definitely recommend David's course to anyone wanting
to learn how to make their horse more comfortable by balancing
the hoof properly - and of course getting rid of those flares!
David is a good teacher and he gave everyone equal attention.
Virginia Tropeano
I learnt heaps from attending the weekend hoofcare course. David
is an excellent teacher (I used to be a teacher before I retired)
who obviously loves passing on what he knows to other people.
He doesn't just talk at you all the time - there is plenty of
opportunity for questions and comments, and lots of practical
demonstration of the things being talked about.
We were happy that David found time to come and look at our mare
with the sore feet/legs, and to trim them to make her more comfortable.
She is still sore on the arthritic leg but in general is much
happier to move around and we know what to do to keep her feet
as he left them.
I've done some trimming of a few of our horses since the course,
and will keep going till I get better at it. Hard to get the sole
out and cut the bars back, not so hard to work the nippers and
the file. All hard with the ones that don't cooperate, and so
much more pleasant and successful with the ones that do.....heaps
to practise and more to learn but I have a sound theory to work
on now.
Regards,
Kristen Proudfoot
David and Anne
First of all a very big thank you. The course was very interesting,
informative, well presented and fun. David's passion for hoof
care has inspired me to pursue a career as a farrier, hopefully
with David as a mentor (I'll stay in touch as I gain more experience),
and can guarantee you will see me at Oakbank within the next six
months.
David's no fuss, straight down the line style makes it easy
and simple for anyone to grasp and understand, the small groups
meant that every one had a chance to ask questions and get one
on one tuition. His genuine want to help all horses by informing
their owners/farriers meant he didn't keep any secrets, if he
knew something that would help he would show it to us and explain
it.
I definitely recommend the course to anyone who cares about
the well being of their horses.
Also a big thank you to the Dawson's at Country Herbs in Bywong,
their hospitality was second to none. The experience is one I
will remember and has resulted in meeting of people I hope to
be lifelong friends.
Thank you
Steven Magee
Oakbank Course
Thanks so much for a terrific experience on the weekend!
I now feel confident to tackle all my own hoof problems at home.
The content of the course was excellent. David made it so easy to
understand, and was so patient.
Also your meals were awesome!!
Thanks so very much for the opportunity to come down to SA and learn
from David.
Its right up there with one of the best horse experiences in my
life!!
Thanks again, I really appreciate everything! Emily
Prosser
I'm just writing this email to thankyou for your great
hospitality at the course I've just completed.
The knowledge I gained from your course was exactly what I was after
and more; the learning environment was excellent, my partner was
very impressed with the information gained.
The ABC of Hoof Care DVD I call “ David at home”.
Stuart Ivens
Muttaburra QLD July
David really doesn't require feedback as his grasp and
enthusiasm for his subject and his skill in course presentation
mean no changes could be suggested.
I thought the smoko/evening sessions also useful and good
use of time.
Only bit would have been handy to have would have been 5 or 10
minutes on tools, tool care in particular His skill in his trade
combines very well with his skill as a trainer as every person,
from the highly experienced to the learner in the course I attended,
would have learnt a great deal, and developed more.
Simon Campbell
We really enjoyed the weekend and once again learnt lots. The
things we got out of the weekend were about the critical heel
and how far you can take it off. Where the pedal bone and what
it does.In taking off the toe and how far, some times we are cautions
about what we take off. Also the junction between the frog and
the sole how far you can go in an untouched hoof. Seeing the crack
in the sole and how to treat.How to trim cow hocked and turned
out hoofs (still will need to confirm this one more). I guess
a lot of checking that you’re dong the right thing.
Thanks for a great weekend
Jim and Sue
What an awesome experience. David taught all the participants
so much and we all took away a little something to carry on with
our own horses.
David has a brilliant knack of teaching and getting his point
across in laymans terms so that we all understand.
Personally I intend on travelling to SA to do the five day course
at some point, very keen to learn more.
Sarah Rayner
2 day Course Perth Aug 9-10
As horse owners we are continually striving to learn more to
enable us to care for our horses in the best possible way. David's
course was a enormous step forward into better horse management.
It encompassed all aspects of the workings of the hoof, effective
hoof trimming and hoof balance making it clear and easy to understand.
How exciting to know, armed with this
valuable knowledge following David's methods, this skill can only
improve every time you look at and attend to your horses hooves.
Every single moment we spend with our horses builds our bond and
understanding, now I really can start from the feet up! Thanks
David it was a great weekend. Thanks also to Sue Jacobson who
was always there if you needed a bit of support and encouragement
when David was trying to spread himself around our group.
Melissa Guest
Perth
2 day course Gloucester NSW Aug 2-3 Thank you
for your time, knowledge and patience. You got your message across
to me and I understand what is required of me to produce a healthy
and balanced hoof and a happy and competitive horse. I have since
begun trimming and shoeing my horses and will revise the process
again in 4 weeks to gradually achieve balance.I am amazed at the
shoe size reduction after one trimming, and when comparing old
shoe to new shoe just how long hooves were being left. Nothing
you haven't seen or heard, just to let you know I see it. Again,
thank you, I will contact you again at some point either to ask
you for advice or to express my gratitude after further work.Please
take care - I don't think there's another quite like you.
Lachlan Ellis
Regarding the course, It was amazing for me. I have been barefoot
for about 5 years following methods of Gene Olvenik and reading
as much as I can - but was not equiped by these teachings to deal
with either of the horses that I bought to the course. After balancing
and shoeing of Sahara who had been in paddock condition for last
18 months, I found a smoothness of gait and responsiveness that
I had previously never experinced. Similarly Dawn, who we have
had for 12 months and came to us with poor hoof confirmation (
long toe, contracted heels and no frog contact) the changes to
her gait after the corrections that we started were impressive.
I look forward to seeing her progress as we get her hoof balanced
over the next couple of trims.
David's patience and method of teaching was fantastic - and the
method of balancing the hoof was a huge piece of information that
to date had been missing for me. I look forward to seeing David
again.
Thanks again,
Andrew
5 day Advanced Course
Just thought Id give some feedback on the course - a couple of months
on...
I think one of the first things David said about the 5 day intensive
course was that it'd be life changing... Well, it certainly was
My horses feet look incredible, they don't have any cracks, flares,
seedy toes and Im not shoeing them as a result. Theyre happier
better performing balanced horses.
I'm doing the Second Chance horses every 21 days and slowly getting
them looking good - although a lot of the work with these horses
is to do with the training of the horse - and less about the actual
work.
Reflecting on the time in Adelaide, Id say that it was challenging
to the point of making it interesting without overdoing it. What
I took away was huge a big difference to many horses.
I just can't thank David enough... And Anne - still dream about
that hot bread and butter!
Thanks guys!
Andrew Turnbull Perth
2 Day Hoof Care Course
We found the course to be an amazing experience.
Firstly the attention to detail with the hospitality and accommodation
was exceptional - we have been less well looked after at so called
"luxury" b&b's.
The course content and delivery were nothing short of remarkable-
David's knowledge, enthusiasm and patience made for a very productive
educational experience.
Having just spent the weekend vetting an endurance ride (I picked
up and looked at 320 feet if you do the maths!), there is no doubt
that the Hoof Care Course has resulted in a paradigm shift in
my understanding of the relationship between feet, performance
and lameness in athletic horses.
David, you may live to regret offering that lifetime consultancy
- we will be picking your brain on a regular basis!
Many thanks
Bruce and Kerri
2 Day Hoof Care Course
Hi David & Anne
Thank you so much for letting us come to your place at Oakbank,
to learn more about hoof care.
The course was great and really I"m not sure how you could
improve it. On completing the course I
realized how important correct balance of the hoof is for the
performance and wellbeing of the horse.
Correct balance is more than just getting the sole flat and whacking
a shoe on.
Well done and thankyou both again
Dave Hoare

Muttaburra QLD July 19-20
The school was excellent, a great teacher, very patient, very sharp
assessment skills in terms of participant skills levels, great co-learners,
enjoyed every moment of it and of course that runs through to some
strong recommendations if anyone asks me (as they will!).
All the best, thanks again, cheers,
Simon
I've really benefited from doing this course – I’m
confident that I can balance a horses foot and with practice Im
looking forward to being able to shoe all of our horses, full
time.
As I’m sure its been said many times, I doubt I’m
going to be able to go away to polocrosse tournaments without
looking at every horses hooves. And I’ll make sure I check
the feet of my opposing number 1s horse! (thanks David!)
Your welcoming attitude and manner along with the great accommodation
facilities really made for an enjoyable weekend and I’m
sure I’ll be back again in the future as we never stop learning!
Thanks again for everything!
Ebony
Accomodation and Catering............First Class
Course subject matter...................Well presented and informative,
even for a Novice
Support and empathy....................Excellent
Variety of course...........................Offers exceptional variety
and depth of each subject
Facilities.......................................Could not be better
Value for money............................Exceptional
Would I do it again?.......................When do I start?
Longer term Benefits.....................Having back up support
from David and Anne and building the relationship
Course retention...........................How could you forget,
with all the resources availed to you
David Kemp QLD
Many thanks for the course had a educational time and you took all
the mystery out of trimming and shoeing horses, learnt a lot and
would recommended it to any horse owner experienced in horse hoof
care or just a learner both would learn a lot.
Some feed back re course, while I can do appreciate the fact
that some people are going to learn from observing and that some
of their input and questions are beneficial. I found it difficult
to get your tutorial during the course as these observers were
monopolising your time with story telling. This was a bit frustrating
when I was trying to improve a develop my technique and at times
I felt though the squeakiest or noisiest student got the most
tutoring. As a hands on paying student who is investing more into
the course I think time devoted to these hands on students should
be the priority and the observers learn from observing and asking
questions at more appropriate times.
Mobile phones should be left in vehicles as they are disturbing
and an interruption to students and teachers.
Over the next few weeks while we are in off season for Polocrosse
I am going to canvass my club members and others and try and get
sufficient numbers for you to hold a course for hands on students
only in Mount Barker or Albany as I think this will be of huge
benefit to our club and fellow horse owners. Look forward to working
with you in the future and hope you don't mind my feedback.
Best Regards
Darren Rutley
Thank you so much for a wonderful course. I have learnt so much
and still have so much to learn. I would like to say thank you very
much David for having such patience with me with getting shoes on
my two Arabs. Yes I was one of those that had never pulled, filed
or even thought I could ever put a shoe on. I learnt so much this
weekend and met some wonderful people who like me had never done
much farrier work, in fact I had a total over load by the end of
the course. I found some parts of the course very daunting and felt
that I would never get this right but was reminded over and over
again that help is only a phone call, email or even an airplane
trip away. It is now time to practice what I have learnt and will
defiantly be attending the next course that is held in WA. Once
again thank you so much and I have been practicing to hit nails
to get the right wrist movement so hopefully next time I can hit
the nails and not the horses hoof.
I took my two arabs on a 20km training run today and can not believe the difference,
their strides we so much longer and smoother as well as we cover
the ground a lot faster than their usual training times. They
both worked really well and the difference is very noticeable.
The only suggestion I have is not to have so many beginners on
the same course, as it was very hard to get through all our questions
or get David to check what we had done. I know it is very hard
to be in 10 places at once and we did get the job done in the
end. (only a suggestion)
I would love to be notified when the next course will be in Perth
Vanessa Crispe
I thoroughly enjoyed the 2 day course.
Not only have i learnt how to trim my horses feet. I now understand
more about the hoof and how important
it is to keep it well balanced.
David is so patient and explains everything step by step you gain
confidence you never knew you had.
Thankyou for allowing me to participate in your course.
Regards
Bernadie
I was a spectator for the first of the two days at the SEC in Perth
and really enjoyed the experience. Not only is the technique developed
and demonstrated by David thoroughly convincing in its sensible
logic, but he also encourages plenty of questions which really helps
with learning. I now feel confident tackling my gelding and perhaps
my mare, but I regret not asking about my foal, assuming at the
time it was too crucial for me to handle ..... but perhaps not.
I will try to master the technique on my adult horses first and
see how I go. Thanks for a great day of learning.
Cheers
Ingrid
I absolutely loved the course. Extremely informative, but so easy
to understand. Went home and trimmed 1 of my ponies the very next
day. Will definitely do another course later in the year. Both my
horse (Henry) that I took to the course and my pony (Butterscotch)
who I trimmed at home are rather pigeon toed. Butterscotch has rather
tough neat little feet but due to never being corrected she is pigeon
toed. She used to swing her front feet a bit but after 1 trim is
much straighter.
Thanks for all the help throughout the course. Much appreciated.
Candi
Hi Anne and David,
Once again, for the third consecutive course, I have learnt so
much!!.
Every horse and pony comes with its own set of new and interesting
problems to solve, so there is always something more to learn. But
it always comes back to that if you apply your guidelines of ABC
you will get a balanced hoof. Looking forward to the next course!.
Sue Jacobsen
Bowen Therapist for horses
Gidgegannup
Thanks for the course at Capel.It was a great course and I got
a lot out of it. It has especially given me alot more confidence
in what I am doing and it also gave me some simple guidlines to
follow.iIhave been telling everyone at the Ag college equine course
about you and they want to meet you as well so there might be
some more of us there at your next course. Simmo one of the girls
you were teaching at Yarrie Station also came from Narrogin and
I have been handling her foals for her and we cought up the other
day and she also said she loved it. i would love to attend another
of your courses.
Cheers
Jake Webster
My husband really enjoyed the course and now understands why I made
him go. I had previously done Davids course and got so much out
of it, I felt it was important that he do it. With both of us now
having the same knowledge and understanding its going to be a lot
easier to organise and plan our horses hoof care, without arguing.
Please tell David that the PoloX mare he did the second day went
brilliant at a training tournament on the weekend.
Lynda and David
The course was excellent, and relevant to commercial horse breeding.
The notes provided were very self explanatory and the practical
sessions invaluable. We breed standardbred horses for racing and
the early development of the foal’s feet and legs is crucial.
Many breeders and farriers do not understand this which results
in poor results at the yearling sale and race track. It’s
a shame there were no local farriers/breeders/trainers at the
workshop however I will spread the word within the industry where
possible. I appreciate David’s offer of providing after
course advice on specific hoof problems via email.
Cathy Wood
The course I just completed was fantastic and
soooo valuable. There were horses at the course that I reckon owe
their lives to David because if they had not benefitted from his
expertise at this course they would have gone on suffering till
their lives were cut short due to incorrect shoeing or treatment.
All the other horses there would certainly have extended their happy
working lives, therefore benefitting their owners.
I was an observer but I know my horses will benefit greatly as well,
and I have David's DVDs to keep me on track as well.
I can not tell you in words what a wonderful weekend I had and how
much I got out of it, as I think all the participants did.
Thank you David so much for travelling to NSW and running this course,
as I doubt I could get to SA, and would have missed out on so much.
Cheers
Trish Preston
On 20th and 21st October I attended your clinic
at Oakbank.
I was enlightened on how a horse could be trimmed
and shod correctly. This clinic opened my eyes on how correct
balance can be achieved so that our horses are more comfortable
and will remain sound throughout their competitive career.
Your decades of experience shone through and this
course is a must for all horse owners so that they know that their
equine friends are being trimmed or shod correctly.
Farriers would also benefit as it will refresh their
understanding of a correctly balanced hoof and their clients will
certainly notice a change in their horse’s performance.
Without the correct balance a horse cannot perform
to its best ability and will show signs of soreness through its
body, whether it is lameness, proppy gait, sore back, grumpiness,
lack of forward or unwilling to work.
My farrier Harvey Excell also attended the Clinic
and we can now work together on my horses balance. We also have
a better understanding of how to use the Hoofline tool.
I am fortunate to have had a wonderful farrier and
friend, Jim Ellis, for 27 years who is always particular about
the correct balance of the horse. Jim is now 73 and still trimming
my two oldies that move like 5 year olds. He took me along to
many Farrier clinics to educate me on the correct trimming of
horses but I feel that your clinic was the best that I have attended.
You have managed to take a serious and technical subject and present
it in layman’s terms allowing both novice and professionals
alike to understand your concepts.
Thanks also to your wife, Anne, who is just lovely
and such a wonderful host and cook. Your hospitality and friendliness
made everyone attending feel like a part of their family.
I feel honoured to have been a part of this clinic
and Country Park will be hosting a course with you when the Equine
Flu situation is over.
I also would like to come back for another refresher
clinic with you soon.
Warm regards
Carol Dawson (Country Park Animal Herbs)
This was my third
course & David did it again!!! It just amazes me how our poor
horses survived all these years without his help. For anyone thinking
of doing a course & for your own horses health... please do
one. You'll never regret it. As long as David keeps teaching,
I'll be at his courses.
Kristi McVee, WA
A very down to earth fella, every aspect of the course
is down to earth and the wealth of information I came home with
is beyond beleif, every person with horses in their lives be they
farriers, riders and owners, vets should attend these courses
and become responsible from the ground up. Thanks David &
Ann I will attend more courses, you have enriched my life and
my horses will benefit from here on in.
Karen Drage, WA
This is the second time I've done the 2-day course and I highly
recommend it to anyone who wants to do the best by their horse.
David explains things clearly and concisely, and by the end of the
second day your understanding of the hoof and how to look after
it will have increased 100-fold!! Do you horse a favour and get
into it!
Sarah, WA
Thanks to David for a very informative 2 days,would recommend to
any horse person for the extra knowledge for the health and safety
of your treasured horse.I look forward to Davids return to the west.
Kevin Williams, WA
I found the course to be very informative and well worth going along
to see. The hoof-line is a fantastic invention of David's and feel
that everyone who owns a horse should have one. David's methods
make such common sense and are easy for anyone learn. Everyone should
know at least basic hoof care and how the horse's foot works. Trimming
correctly should be part of anyones basic care and horsemanship
skills. How wonderful it was to see the end result of a horse's
foot being trimmed and shoed in such a
way that, all I can say is WOW.
Tracey Stirling, WA
This was the best horsey experience I've had. The course was so
informative and made so much sense it helped more than i thought
it could. David was really friendly and helpful and explained horse
trimming and shoeing well. I couldn't say a bad word about this
course and would recommend it to anyone. Thanks David.
Mandy Wilcox, WA
The course was really good. I learned a lot and will put it to good
use.Everything that I was taught will stay with me for the rest
of my life. Thank you
Sadie, WA
The course was excellent!!. I have learned so much in 2 days. David's
hoofline tool is the best thing since sliced bread, anybody can
balance a horses foot using this tool. I can't honour David enough,
he is so helpful and is so dedicated to this cause of making horses
sound, happy and pain free. It has been an absolute pleasure to
have met him.
Sue Jacobsen, WA
Thanks again, David & Anne, for your warm and freindly environment
which you provide to everyone who does this course. In such a short
amount of time you have provided us with the knowledge to improve
the state of all our horses' well being and that's what owning or
looking after horses is all about. If we want them to live in our
backyard, then we'd better keep them happy.
Thanks again, really enjoyed the course and I'll definitely be back
to refine what I've learnt. Thanks,Chris
Chris Bechly
We lived and breathed hooves for 5 days, and I loved every minute!!
David's knowledge is unsurpassed, and his passion for what he is
teaching never wavers. As someone whose interest lies mostly in
barefoot trimming, I am confident that this 'traditional farrier'
knows more about the natural function of the hoof and how to maintain
it at its optimum that many a 'barefoot specialist'. Since completing
the course I have had the knowledge to confidently trim every hoof
I have come accross, and his teaching on horse handling has certantly
improved the experience for both myself and the horses! That aside
the course is worth doing just to experience Anne's hospitality
and cooking!!
Emily Hamlyn, SA
A Fantastic course that every horse owner should attend. I got so
much out of it and immediately put what I learned into practice
at home on my own horses. My only regret is not attending the second
day of the course but I will be back to learn as much as I can from
this Wonderful man. Thankyou David. PS I am loving your book
Lee-Anne Rowland
Thanks so very much to David and Anne for the wealth of imformation
I gained at this wonderful course!! I arrived knowing nothing and
am now confident to trim my own horses. David is a wonderful teacher
and I am now keen to come back and learn how to shoe. This course
is a must for not only farriers but all horse owners.
Jackie Forrester, SA
A very well set out professional program that will benefit riders,
farriers, master farriers, vets, owners, trainers etc. One place
that anyone would never stop learning or get bored and goes beyond
shoeing. David Farmilo is not just a Master Farrier but a Master
Horseman and Educator. An ongoing life program that just starts
when you leave. Plus food worth shoeing for. Thank you David and
Anne,
Justin Worth
I found this course extremely informative and effective. After spending
time under Davids expert eye I have the confidence to shoe a horse
(properly balanced) from start to finish.
Tony Cook
A great experience for me, the course has put me back on track seeing
I haven't shod a horse for many years. To me after doing the course
balancing the hoof is the most important part of shoeing, and I
know I will achieve that by using David Farmilo's hoof line rule.
Rodney Johns
I highly recommend this course, we saw and dealt with all types
of "problems". David's simple approach to hoof care is
to balance the hoof, and most of all he is a very good teacher -
Life Changing.
Gary Faulks
I once was lost... but now i'm found. Was Blind... but now i see.
The word thanks is not nearly enough but i know that David would
be proud to know that throughout the remainder of my days there
will be BALANCE. I will honour your genius and forever respect the
man. Cheers David in you I have found a mentor and a mate.
Lucas Holland
A very useful and enjoyable course - I found David easy to understand
and he explained all aspects of the course thoroughly. Highly recommended
Daniel Wilson, Gulgong, NSW
The course was great and I learnt heaps. 2 days with David just
didn't seem long enough to answer all my questions. I would love
to have him teach me one on one for 2 full days. David has so much
knowledge. Many thanks..
Chris Noonan, Gulgong, NSW
Been a first timer at shoeing horses David's course was a great
way to learn the right thing the first time. The course taught me
alot about basic shoeing which i needed and also taught me how to
deal will common hoof problems in my area. Over all an very wothwhile
learning experience.
Stuart MacDougall, Grafton, NSW
I had a great time. Found the course a great learning experience.
Mum has since learnt a lot from me!!!! Thank you very much and hope
to see you next year
Tammy Hughes, Goondiwindi, QLD
My farrier helped me with the last part of the hoof - I showed him
the HOOF-LINE and also watched the CD then we went to work. He took
a lot more sole out near the toe and a bit more on the heel until
it was even, and yes most of the crack was taken out and he beveled
the corners of what was left. He now has a new lease on life, he
runs with 2 geldings and a stallion and now is back being top dog,
much to the displeasure of the stallion. My Farrier had seen the
HOOF-LINE before and was curious but hadn't asked how it worked
- he loved it. He couldn't believe that a gumby like me could do
as well as I did in 2 days with the help of something so simple
- he suggested that they should be standard with every farrier.
I noticed that he checked the other horses to see how balanced they
were before he started. The larger of the 2 greys is having his
first draft back this weekend I'll let you know how we went.........
I got him back in work the following day after the course and he
used to try to bury me for the first 50 odd meters (cold backed
everyone told me!!!!!) he hasn't even turned a hair and that was
about 2 weeks ago - one very happy pony I think.
Tig Fenwicke, FEN, NSW
We just completed the clinic here in O'NEALS, California. All 13
of us were blown away by the improvement in the horses that were
trimmed and shod. I see it as a step toward a healthier horse population
in central California.
Hugh Bishop--Manager of Flying O Ranch, O'neals California
I found the course answered all the questions I have had ever since
I started doing my own shoeing. Particularly it took away the guesswork
and was very specific in the correct method of trimming. David is
a wealth of knowledge which has been tried and proven and is backed
up by his experience over a long period of time. I would be interested
in getting David to conduct a school in Broken Hill sometime next
year as we discussed.
Ray Johnston, Mildura, VIC
Would like to thank Dave - he did a great job. Found the course
very interesting and very informative & found the information
about shoeing back feet very helpful. Was great to finaly learn
how to use the balancing tool as I have had one for some time.
Steven Blackadder, NSW
I was really impressed with the course and I think my horses will
reap the benefits. Finally learning how to put shoes on correctly
was a buzz for me. David was so patient. I would recomend anyone
attend David's Clinic male, female, young or senior. Take care David
and thanks Anne for the information and work you put in to help
us along too. Marilyn Harvy, Mildura, VIC
I had a great time and learned a lot. Just love that Farmilo sense
of humour. Alan Mouat, Gulgong NSW
I found David extraordinarily patient and helpful. I liked his focus
and ability to make a potentially complex process straightforward
enough so that even a rank novice could follow his instructions.
When my legs recover I'm off to practice on my horses at home....Look
forward to attending another course. Lesley, Mildura, Vic
The course was great. The presentation was great and the level of
knowledge gained was more then expected. There is something to be
learnt from the very inexperienced to the very experienced.
Warren Clark, Tamworth, NSW
After shoeing my own horses most of my life, it is finally good
> to know how to get a properly balanced & well shaped hoof
(plus sort out a > few other problems). So simple when you know
how, not rocket science at > all. Stuart Thomson, Lockyer
Valley, QLD
Dear Mr. Farmilo
It has now been almost 3 years since I witnessed your
talent. You were teaching one of your 3-day hoof care classes
on Walhallow Station. I was writing to you to say thank you so
much for everything you ever taught me. My horses would say thank
you too if they could talk.
Those three days down at the horse yards helped me
to build patience and understanding for my horse as well as for
myself. Even though I am now only 17 I can shoe the backside off
most of the stock camp here. The only competition I get is from
my older brother and sister; my sister being one of your students
at the same 3 day courses. The other is 32 so he has a slight
advantage. For the rest of my life I will always be employable,
as long as I can keep my back in good order. Wherever there are
horses I will be able to make a living. I hope you realize how
much of a gift that is in an age where millions rely on others
for money and support.
I am a terrible boast, every time the others get on
their high horse about how good they can shoe I just laugh and
ask them if they can shoe a horse in ½ an hour. If they
say no, I just tell them that the fella that taught me was about
sixty and could do a freaking good job in that time. Ask them
if they could fix seedy toe and they just look at you like you
are from another planet. Show them that book (ABC Hoof care) and
they soon change their minds about how they go about shoeing;
even though they don’t admit it.
Even though it was 3 years ago I still remember everything
you taught us there. The book that you gave us sits right next
to my bible on my bedside table; the pages are worn and torn from
3 years of constant study.
I hope to catch you at another of your shoeing courses
sooner or later (unless you’ve retired).
Once again, thank you from the bottom of my shoeing
kit.
Possum Vaughan
The venue, course content and information delivery were excellent.
David has an approachable, friendly manner which makes it easy to
ask questions which are always answered fully. I learnt a lot reading
David's book and articles but the course really cemented the ABC
priciples in my head. DO THE COURSE, your horse will thank you for
it. Ken Reimers, Lockyer Valley, QLD
I attended first day only. David is an excellent speaker presenting
the theory with humour and in simple terms. In the practical I was
helped (with my 2 Shetland ponies) by two fence sitter farriers
otherwise with class of 12-16 (12 hands-on + 4 viewers) I would
not have finished. Suggestion is that one day be devoted for trims
only. Diana Mitchell, Lockyer Valley, QLD
I found the course very informative with hands on demos being a
great way to improve techniques. David's excellent knowledge of
shoeing and his desire to pass on and assist with hoof problems
is invaluable. As a full time farrier myself, his knowledge has
helped make my business grow. Raymond Dingle, Lockyer Valley,
QLD
Just Fantastic! David's love of horses just shines through his informative
and enlighting course.His easy to understand ABC system, Assessment,
Balance, Correction is life changing both to horse and owner. I
will be armed with my Hoofline from now on, "look out any flares!"
Caroline Arena, Mooloolah, QLD
Excellent information and well presented. Last year did it at Mooloolah
on a very hot day out in the sun so was glad it rained this year
and we moved to Nambour Showgrounds in the shade. I personally would
rather pay a few extra dollars towards the covered arena rather
that have it outside in the sun as it was a very comfortable learning
facility. Jean Robinson, Mooloolah, QLD
Thoroughly enjoyed the day. David is a wealth of information. Glad
I did the hands on, I think it helped to ingrain the information
seeing as I had never shod a horse before. Many thanks David, see
you next year. Leanne Searle, Maryborough, QLD
I learned a lot from David's course. He explained things in a way
that was easy to understand and he didn't mind me asking questions.
I now feel confident to trim my own horse's feet and I look forward
to attendingnext year's clinic. Jeremiah, Maryborough,
QLD
I had very limited knowledge on farrier-ing , what I knew was wrong
anyway!!. It is enlightening to see a master at his trade -the course
is hands on, implementation under guidance,watching others more
competent than you and learning. I found it excellent -thoroughly
recommend it. John Flynn, Kikilvan, QLD
Great course. Learnt more in two days than I have in the last four
years about hoof care. I'm glad I was able to attend this course
as I am confident to tend my horses feet now knowing that what I
am doing works. Horses don't lie. My crew of six are much happpier.
Unfortunately I have picked up a bad habit of looking at horses
feet. Very Weird. Lee, Alpha, QLD
Enjoyed the course and learnt a lot about horses feet and how to
care for them, in particular how to balance their feet. David is
an excellent trainer and very helpful. Especially like his explanation
and support with real live examples and photos etc. Only one dislike,
which was his language at times. Nebo Participant
David's hoof care course was great, I don't think I've ever learnt
so much in 2 days. Chris, QLD
An eye opening two days, I found the course very educational and
worthwhile. A lot to learn for everyone who thinks anything of their
horses. Jeff Clews, QLD
Seemed simple but still working on the concept which makes sense.
Time will tell. Alistair Gordon, Charters Towers, QLD
This is the second course that I have attended and I found the course
very good. I picked up things this year that I missed last year.
David explains everything in a simple to understand way. I would
recommend David's courses to everyone. Bill Abraham, Goondiwindi,
QLD
Well presented, in a language that is easy to understand. Dominic
Toomey, Charters Towers, QLD
I found that the course was very informative & David was easy
to understand & pass on his knowledge to others. I would like
to have spent a little more time on the basics, but am sure that
I have enough understanding to go on with. I would like to do another
next year as a refresher , thank you. Paul Flynn, Charters
Towers, QLD
Great course and I learnt a lot from david and his experience. His
passion for and knowledge of this subject is truly astounding. Thankyou!
Matt Ahern, Roma, QLD
Great Course, only suggestion is that for the first day sort of
split the group (1/2 working and 1/2 watching)for the morning then
swap for the arvo session. So people have more of an idea before
they start. Then let em all go the 2nd day. But all in all a really
great course. Bmat, Roma, QLD
David helped me understand some basic principles of the trade -how
to stand, how to balance the hoof - two things that make the job
easier and in the end help improve and strengthen the horses ability.
Two of my horses have had issues due to injury and/or conformation
faults, David gave me more confidence in my self and therefore the
ability to continue their hoof care and since the course the two
horses have started to repair and perform better then previously.
For this I am truely grateful. Thank you Mal Shaw, Bunbury,
WA
Excellent course. The value of David's methods is that you follow
a formula in a step wise process. Stick to that and with time the
mystery will go. For grossly abused feet seek help but that help
should be to restore balance. Ken Lee, Cummins, SA
Thanks David and Anne (behind every great man.....).You have cleared
up some grey areas and provided an easy, correct, common nsense
approach to hoof care. I feel at ease having gained bits of the
RIGHT knoweldge on which to build further skills and to forever
help my best friends. Cindy Dennis, Cummins, SA
Great two days David, as always easy to understand. I was glad my
two older sons were able to attend, they now have a simpler understanding
of how a hoof works, why problems start and how to correct them.
The tool makes it fool proof and you can see to shape easily. Thanks
again, hope to see you over here next year. Noelene, Geraldton,
WA
I would like to thank again David for his excellent course which
contains extremely valuable information and is well delivered. Keep
up the great work!! Allister Butcher, Kojonup, WA
Fantastic thanks - learnt a lot considering last course was 20 years
ago; learnt a lot personally for my own horses, and as for my work
side as a vet, will be dealing with lameness and founder a lot differently
thanks a lot. Hope you can get into the vet schools to start basics
to students. Miles Nye-Chart, Kojonup, WA
David, my friend and I spent about a week in total amazement at
how much better our horses trotted after doing your course! I didn't
realize how much smoother and softer a trot could be after one hoof
trim! I didn't doubt what you were saying, I just didn't comprehend
how much better it would be! Thank you for that! Nadia,
Derby Clinic
Thank you David, you are an absolute gem. I feel confident to trim
my pony and my warmblood will love you forever. Every horse owner
should attend your courses even if it's just to know your own farrier
is doing the
job RIGHT. Can't wait to see you next time around. Adele
Lubcke, Kojonup, WA
Many many thanks, I learnt more and clarified many things that I
was still questioning after last years course.
The foundered pony was on his feet more today and he is locked in
the cattle yards and is spending quite a bit of time roaming looking
for something to eat. Jacky Ynema, Bunbary, WA
My partner Trevor is still raving about all the wonderful knowledge
that he gained from David. He is implementing all he has learnt
even after 30 years as a farrier and is really thrilled with all
the results. Sarah, NT
Bloody fantastic!! David's a great teacher with so much experience
to share. I feel much better knowing something about how my horse's
hooves should look! EVERYONE SHOULD DO THEIR HORSES A FAVOUR AND
GET THEMSELVES ON THIS COURSE! Squitch, WA
I have been around horses most of my life and have never even picked
up a rasp. but after just 2 days I feel completely at ease about
trimming my own horses' feet. David's course was very informative.
Thankyou. Jo Petit, Bunbary, WA
The course was enlightening and informative. I wish all horses had
the opportunity to have their farrier follow the ABC hoof care method.
Helen Vaiciunas, Geraldton, WA
Thank you David, I now have the knowledge and with time and a bit
more practice, will have the confidence to trim my own horse. We
are very priviledged that you have shared this information with
us and the best part is, if you follow the system and guidelines,
you CANNOT go wrong!It is foolproof and proven. Will recommend your
clinics and system to everyone I know in the horsie world! Thanks
again. Kelly, WA
I thoroughly enjoyed the two days as a 'viewer' and felt privileged
to see David working with people and horses that were obviously
benefiting from his knowledge and skills. David's clear and simple
message in relation to correct hoof balance interspersed with discussion
and many factual stories was an unforgettable educational experience.
Thankyou -from me and my horses. Julie, Geraldton WA
Excellent course supported by very comprehensive notes and instructions.
I didn't really think I would be able to do it but ended up trimming
two and a half horses! David is a superb teacher with endless patience
and a devilish sense of humour. I feel confident enough to go and
trim my other two and a half horses especially with knowing I can
email him if I have a problem. Would love to see every horse owner
attend one of his courses. Thanks David. Kerry Hadley, Geraldton,
WA
I found it to be a comprehensive course which made the job easier,
with the aid of the simple ruler which David has made, which in
turn just reasures some people what they have been doing for years.
David is easy going and knows his trade and I reccommend his course
to anyone, novice or experienced. David Bowman, Willeroo
Station, NT
All who took part in the course were surprised at how much they
didn't know - it gave them a new view and understanding of the preciseness
required to shoe a horse. We recommend the course and the Hoof Line
Ruler. Kerrie McInnes, Liverenga Station, WA
Thoroughly enjoyable course. This is the second time that I have
attended and you just can't stop learning from David - he is a great
teacher and makes shoeing uncomplicated and enjoyable Bonnie
Anderson, Jubilee Downs, WA
I have been shoeing horses for a few years, but did not know what
I was doing, the course was brilliant, with participants from all
levels, I now have a basic knowledge of the correct way to put shoes
on & the problems caused by incorrect shoeing etc, & what
to look for in lame horses; highly professional & informative.
Bob Lee, Karratha
Dear David, Your Hoof-Line method is a true reflection of yourself.
Basic,commonsense approach to proper hoof care. Your true passsion
for equus is pure and so refreshing in this industry. I thank you
and all the horses thank you, for they have the final say. Wishing
you the very best. Ron, Richmond VA (USA)
My husband & I found both of your clinics invigorating. We felt
confirmed in our thinking. It has afforded us hours of conversing.
You have been a welcomed blast of refreshing energy. Thank you also
for such thoughtful insight and straight-from-the-hip humor.
Sloan and Michael, Glover VT
I was called to look at a friends horse 2 days after the horse came
home from the trainers. This horse cost the syndicate a lot of money.
When I saw her I got the shock of my life.This 3 year old filly
had won her barrier trial but was stopped from racing her first
race by the vet due to lameness. The vet didn't comment on her shoeing.The
trainer's farrier had already attempted to correct the lameness.
The shoeing of this horse when she was deemed unsound by the course
vet must have been even worse.
In 35 years of shoeing I have never seen a worse shoeing job than
this. Her toes were so long that her pasterns were forced to stand
vertical. This horse was walking with tiny steps and in obvious
extreme pain.
With your HOOF-LINE she measured 7 to the toe and 5 to the heel.
After balancing and re-shoeing using the HOOF-LINE, the balance
was equal at 5.5 & 5.5 in one shoeing. She instantly walked
away with normal strides but still with slight lameness.
The first thing obvious to me was that no sole had been trimmed
out at all. I cut probably 1/2" of sole out and she still had
plenty of sole thickness left.
She was shod in aluminium plates with very hard pads about 1/4"
thick apparently to relieve stress. To me there did not seen to
be much stress in the actual hooves - it was all in the tendons,
leg and back directly from the incorrect hoof pastern angle caused
by extreme toe length. So I think the pads just made the situation
worse by effectively adding thickness to the shoe and placing the
frog so far off the ground surface it
could not possibly touch the ground as it should.
I reshod her with size 2 light concaves without the pads - this
was a size smaller than the plates I removed.
I have just received a call from the owner saying the morning after
I shod her was the first time they had seen her walk and canter
normally with no pain.
The owner contacted the trainer to inform him and complain about
the original shoeing. The trqainer's comment was "I've had
horses for years and that (the bad shoeing) was one of the best
shoeing I've seen". The trainer had previously told him "all
horses get sore from time to time".
For a racehorse in training she stood abnormally still for the entire
shoeing and didn't move a muscle - it was almost as if she was crying
out for help and knew she was receiving it.
This is a sad story but one that can have a happy ending if only
people would learn and listen.
David I cant thank you enough for the help you have given me and
the extra confidence I have gained by your method, even after 35
years of shoeing. Geoff Townsend, Yarrawa, NSW
In my mind David is "The Mentor" to us all in the horse
fraternity, whatever country. More farriers should refresh their
abilities and knowledge by attending David's courses. Ken
Walker, Newman WA
Having shod horses for over 30 years I have come to a point where
I could not accept some of the traditional shoeing techniques. It
is refreshing to hear David's logical and simple method of trimming
and shoeing.
Many time I have shod horses thinking on observation at completion
of the job that I could have done better (i.e taken more toe or
heal off). Now with the aid of Davids teaching and his HOOF-LINE
I can walk away knowing I have balanced each horse's hoof correctly.
Thank you David for the time and patience you gave to answer all
of my questions. In my opinion every farrier should attend one of
David's couses as horseshoeing like all other endeavours in life
is a never ending learning process, to think we know it all is to
deny any advancement. So to all farriers and horse enthusiasts do
yourself and your horses a favour and attend one of David's courses.
Geoff Townsend, Yarawa Pony club, QLD.
Mount Pleasant Pony Club hosted the David Farmilo Hoof Care Course
on October the 22-23rd. The course was well attended, with elegantly
sufficient numbers to make one on one tutoring extremely effective,
and the Club received many compliments on the facilities and organisation.
The weather held out long enough to give us a good first day and
the show shedding provided a good base of operations on the Sunday
when the weather turned to custard.
David Farmilo is a fantastic teacher with a wealth
of knowledge, and by the end of the weekend all participants were
assessing, balancing and correcting their horses hooves with confidence.
Even muggins here is confident that I can provide Mannie (my beloved
1st pony) with a lifetime of good health care from this time forward.
David's humour, insight and patience makes for a lively and open
discourse on the subject throughout the whole course.
He came well prepared, with tools for everyone and
good course materials and handouts. We were able to buy basic
hoof care tools from him - a real boon and useful in the extreme.
We even received a copy of his book, which along with many amusing
anecdotes from his over 40 years as a farrier, also contains a
swag of instruction and graphics on hoof care and trimming. This
is exceptionally useful for future reference when refreshing knowledge
from the original course. It turns out that a DVD is on its way
and most of our course, myself included, fully intend to add this
to our resources for the ongoing programme we have all committed
to.
Those courageous enough to attempt their own shoeing
found his method simple and easy to follow; we were all treated
to full instruction on this, a full course on conformation and
correction of issues, as well as ongoing hoof care for any horse.
David is one of those rare teachers who wishes to
impart all his knowledge, and is particularly keen to teach youngsters;
he was thrilled to see Alex and Emma on the course. He also has
supplied his home phone number to everyone to call him anytime
with queries and problems (a rare find indeed!) and the students
all remarked to me afterward that they thought it was the best
course they had attended on anything to do with horse care.
I would recommend this course to anyone - I got bagloads
out of it myself, and will continue to make my horses lives more
comfortable and ensure optimum performance by treating their feet
correctly and in a timely manner. Remember, 'No hoof - no horse'
and 'Flares are your enemy'! Most participants remarked that the
first thing they learned was how little they actually knew, and
not a few of us were forced to face the fact that we had taken
the incorrect/ignorant words of our farriers and other horse people
as gospel.
One young participant has decided that she wishes
to be a farrier and at the end of her Navy tenure at the base
will take up studying with David's system full time! Lets hope
she ends up with David and practising in the area :). The club
has also obtained two new members and an offer of sponsorship
from one of them. What a fabulous weekend!
I was hoping to have recovered from a crushed nerve
in my back before this course, but it was not to be so; David
kindly bought along hoof stands for those that required them,
and it was easy to go at your own pace, making it comfortable
for any level of fitness and ability. So dont feel that you will
be unable to take this on due to one of those issues.
I'm packed in ice packs at the moment; made it through
but its giving me curry now for pushing it a bit. MOTH (Man of
the House) called on the Sunday night from OS and soundly berated
me for pushing the envelope. With the reply "But Mannie is
Comfortable now!", my very wise beloved husband changed the
subject. :))
For those who missed this unbelievably life changing
weekend; lets hope David comes back for a second course with us
as it is entirely your loss, I can assure you.
Mt Pleasant Pony Club Newsletter,
by Michelle Hungerford
The course was great! I learnt a lot and now don't have to waste
money on a sub-standard trimming or shoeing job because I can do
it myself! Thanks a lot David! Katherine, Kunanurra, WA
Thank you very much for running the course at Dardanup - I found
it very valuable. I had much more confidence to keep trimming the
over-long toes back to where they needed to be. The flares were
amazing before I started.
My little Bay horse with the long toes seems to have improved in
leaps and bounds with his work abilities. I did a 3 day clinic on
him the following weekend - he was bouncing off the ground like
never before. Jacky Y, Dardanup, WA
It was the best decision I ever made to do this course. I would
highly recomend it for anyone that has anything to do with horses,
even if you never intend to work on your own horses it's worth gaining
the knowledge
to understand the workings of a hoof and how it can be affected
by seemingly
minor imbalances. Thanks David. Andrew, Moggill, QLD
The course was an inspiration. I now look forward to shoeing rather
than dreading that time again. This can be attributed to the knowledge
and manner in which you gave your hoof care course. Knowing what
makes the hoof tick and how we should be balancing makes the job
that much easier and rewarding. Would like to see more demonstration
or working around a horse when shoeing.Once again thanks for a terrific
and valuable course. Ken Walker, Newman, WA
Of the three geldings my husband shod at your clinic, I competed
on two of them the following weekend, in a "3 Divisional Barrel
Race". Placings for the event are calculated over three runs
per horse. "Mack" & "McCoy" place 1st &
2nd in the 1st Division, with them running the fastest pattern times
clocked on the day. "Mack" also won the Open Barrel Races.
I don't how much of this was there new feet, but I am sure they
played a significant role. Quiona Young, Middlemount, QLD
I was roped into doing the course by my wife but after the first
day I was hooked. Having never shod a horse in my life I was very
happy to go away on day two with 4 shoes all round and not a bad
job if I
say so myself. Thanks for a terrifc school, well worth it.
John Willcox, Kilkivan, QLD
Taking just a few moments to thankyou once again for the time, effort,
and fabulous presentation at your clinic. It has been agreed by
all, that this was one of the best clinics in the northeast in ages
!
I just played your CD and I can tell you its great. I have over
$2,000. in books and video's and your short CD explains more and
tells it clearer than the best video's in my collection.
Some of us have already talked about a return visit
in the future. You truly do have a lot to offer. I spoke with
the horse-owners throughout the clinic and they finally had a
chance to listen to someone who explained things in a manner they
could understand.
There were a lot of different levels of expertice at the clinic
and you had EVERYONE'S attention and everyone followed you from
horse to horse .
NOT once did I hear anyone say, " I am confused".
Back to Basics by David Farmilo will be the talk among farriers
up here for a while to come.
We were HONORED to have you teach us.
Thankyou
Bruce Matthews CJF
Vermont Farriers Association President
Northeast Drafthorse Shoeing LLC
Very hands on, staff learned quickly and took away a lot of practical
ideas. Don't mind return training sessions. Townsend, NT
Very informative, the course has given us the tools
and knowledge to look after our horses feet and make their working
lives more comfortable. The change in our horses in 12 months
has been outstanding.
Geoff Murrell, Manager, Helen Springs, NT
There aren't enough words to describe the feelings
I have from doing the ABC hoof care clinic with David, but if
I could do anything for my horse this would be it. I didn't realise
I could be in charge of such a big part of
horse care & the most important part hoof care. David is an
amazing person & an inspiration to all horse owners &
I would do another clinic tomorrow in the blink of an eyelid.
Thank you to David & Anne for making such a
workable & inspirational course!
Kristi McVee, WA
David was very easy to learn from. The course was enjoyable and
made it easy to learn about the horses feet and how to shoe them.
Thoroughly enjoyed myself and would attend another one again.
Bonnie Anderson, Fitzroy Crossing, WA
Well worth doing, David is very easy to learn from and explains
things so everyone can understand. Makes shoeing seem enjoyable.
Kelly Smith, Fitzroy Crossing, WA
I signed on the course as I am a Bowen Enthusiast and see many horses
with "muscle" problems "I believed" were related
to hoof angle. I was looking for greater understanding of what was
going on. My expectations were greatly exceeded.With an understanding
of the balance principal and my trusty hoof line I am now confident
to explain to owners the basic balance principal and
let them make their own assessments.This can only be a wonderful
thing for many sore horses out there.
I signed on as a fence sitter looking to improve my
trimming techniques as I had stopped paying professionals to shoe
my older horse 4 years ago when he was becoming progressively
lamer with each shoeing.
We have been much sounder bare foot with our trusty old macks
forbackup. After the 1st day I had to upgrade and the 2nd day
saw ME put two good front shoes on my old boy, there is no holding
either of us back now.
(Which is good for me and something to work on with him).
Liesa Platten, WA
Hi David
We have just got home from Corryong where Rowan (16 yrs) competed
in The Man from Snowy River Challenge
I thought you might be interested to know that in the Horse Shoeing
section in the Juniors Rowan came first, he had to do a trim on
one front and one hind in 15 mins.
We got Rowan all the tools you had suggested and he made himself
one of your boxes, boy were they all impressed, during the comp
all the officials and judges were gathered round just pulling
his box about looking at it all.There was the sole chisel tool
that one judge was particularly interested in, saying “Where
did you get that” -he was really inquisitive.So we told
him proudly.
Thankyou once again for the great tuition you gave the Boys -
they look at horses feet constantly now, evaluating them and trimming
a couple of our own horses. It was great on the weekend as Rowan’s
competition horse threw a shoe on Saturday, but as we had the
box and a spare shoe he was able to just put another one back
on, and he was right for Sunday.
Lyn Ross NSW
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