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Originally written : 25 April 2025

 The Silent Struggle of Small Ruminants in a World Built for Horses and Cows

When most people think of farriers, images of horses being expertly shod or cattle standing or laying in hydraulic chutes for a trim usually come to mind. Equine and bovine hoof care are well-established fields with dedicated professionals, specialized tools, and standard techniques. But what about the animals who fall between the cracks—namely, goats and sheep?

For far too long, small ruminants have been overlooked in the world of professional hoof care. Many equine or bovine farriers, through no fault of their own, are simply not trained or equipped to handle the anatomy, behavior, or unique needs of these smaller species. And unfortunately, veterinarians—though incredibly knowledgeable—often don’t specialize in or prioritize routine hoof maintenance for goats and sheep unless there's already a serious issue.

The result? A growing number of animals suffering silently from chronically painful , impacted, overgrown, imbalanced, or infected hooves. And their owners, frustrated and heartbroken, are often left with no real solutions—until now.

Different Animals, Different Needs

Equine and bovine farriers typically focus on larger animals with distinct hoof structures and weight-bearing patterns. Horse hooves are single-toed (monodactyl), hard, and designed for movement over diverse terrain. Cattle, with their cloven hooves, have their own set of needs and challenges, particularly in high-production environments like dairies or feedlots.

Goats and sheep, however, are a different story altogether.

Their hooves are smaller, more delicate, and prone to a range of issues all on their own , like persistent wall separation, impacted dirt and debris, rapid growth, in moist climates leading to rot, deterioration, along with urine scald, breaks, cracks to name a few more. Add in their sensitive nature, skittish personalities, and differing anatomy, and it becomes clear that a "one-size-fits-all" approach simply doesn’t work. Many folks un familiar with goat and sheep movement and stubborness are easily detered - especially with "problematic" or excessively overgrown cases. 

Small Ruminant Farriers Are Unique!

This is where our specialized small ruminant farrier skills step in.

We bring a gentle, species-specific approach to hoof trimming—balancing hooves not just for aesthetics or function, but for long-term comfort, mobility, and wellness. Our techniques are rooted in patience, precision, and respect for the animals. We understand goat and sheep behavior, recognize subtle signs of discomfort, and tailor each trim to the individual.

Our tools areprecise. Our handling methods are calm and supportive. And our goal is not just to “snip, snip and move to the next stop” but to contribute meaningfully to the animal’s quality of life.

No Longer the Forgotten Ones

The truth is, goat and sheep owners are some of the most dedicated, hands-on animal caretakers out there. They’re raising animals for milk, fiber, meat, land management—or simply love. And they deserve access to the same quality hoof care that horse and cattle owners have always had.

Small ruminant farriers are here to fill that void. We’re not an afterthought—we’re the answer to a long-standing problem.

So if you've ever been told by a farrier that they “don’t do goats” or by a vet " we dont offer that service,” know that there is another option. A more compassionate, specialized, and effective approach to hoof care is finally within reach.

Because your goats and sheep deserve better. And now, they can have it! 

To schedule your appointment, please reach out to us! Call/Text 5702171430 or HomesteadHelpersPA.com Or on Facebook! 

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