Barefoot hoof trimming side hustle

Pleasure riders, pony owners, retired horse owners and small agistment properties.

A flat fee per horse per visit, repeated every 4 to 8 weeks. Grouping several horses at one property makes each trip more worthwhile.

• Understanding of hoof balance and health
• Patience and calm handling around horses
• Reliable with bookings and time

• Public liability insurance, and check whether it covers trimming only or shoeing too
• Check whether your state has any rules on who can trim or shoe horses
• Risk of injury from kicks and awkward positions, so work safely and know your limits
• Know when to refer a horse with lameness or hoof disease to a vet or experienced farrier

Startup costs are typically around $1,500 to $6,000, depending on your hand tools, training and insurance. This is an estimate only, and the kit is smaller than full farrier work because no forge is needed.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $500 to $2,500, depending on how many horses you trim and how often. It suits evenings and weekends, with hours starting at about 6 a week.

Check whether your state has rules on who can trim or shoe horses. Also check whether public liability insurance covers trimming only or shoeing too, and know when to refer a horse with lameness or hoof disease to a vet or experienced farrier.