The Business of Farriery: Hoof Care, Clients & Growth with Harry Spinks

In this episode of the Let’s Talk Horse Business podcast, George sits down with Harry Spinks, a farrier based in Dorset, UK, to explore the realities of modern farriery — from hoof care and horse welfare to client management and business growth. Harry shares his journey into the trade, common misconceptions horse owners have around hoof care, and why regular farrier visits can prevent costly veterinary issues later down the line. The conversation dives into the often-misunderstood relationship between horse owners and farriers, highlighting how clear communication and education play a vital role in maintaining both horse health and strong client relationships. Beyond the horses, this episode goes deep into the business side of farriery. George and Harry discuss scheduling, route planning, pricing structures, travel costs, financial planning, and why having proper systems — including administrative support — can completely transform a farrier’s workload and profitability. They also explore the challenges facing the industry, including apprenticeships, attracting new talent, and how the future of farriery may evolve. The episode also tackles the barefoot versus shod debate, the role of social media as both an educational tool and a challenge, and what farriers need to do to adapt and thrive in a changing equestrian landscape. This is essential listening for farriers, horse owners, equestrian professionals, and anyone interested in building a sustainable, well-run business in the horse industry. 1. Hoof care is preventative, not reactiveRegular farrier visits are essential for long-term horse health and can help prevent more serious and costly veterinary issues further down the line. 2. Farriery is as much a business as it is a tradeSuccessful farriers rely on strong systems for scheduling, pricing, route planning, and financial management — not just technical skill. 3. Clear communication improves horse welfare and client relationshipsEducating clients and setting clear expectations leads to better outcomes for horses and reduces misunderstandings between farriers and owners. 4. Barefoot versus shod requires informed managementNeither approach is a shortcut or a cheaper option — both require knowledge, consistency, and the right care plan for each individual horse. 5. The future of farriery depends on adaptabilityFrom social media and client education to apprenticeships and scaling practices, farriers who adapt to industry changes will be best positioned to thrive. Host Bio: George Betson is a seasoned business entrepreneur with over a decade of experience, driven by a passion for strategic business growth and the equestrian industry. Beginning his journey as a business graduate, George worked alongside his late father to run the family business, gaining first-hand experience in resilience, leadership, and what it truly takes to build and sustain a successful enterprise. Today, George combines his commercial expertise with his love of horses as the host of Let’s Talk Horse Business, sharing honest conversations at the intersection of equestrian life, business, and personal growth. Social Links Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/gbetson/ TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@georgebetson