Shane McGarva Farrier Services

I never thought of posting a Unilocal review for a farrier, but feel that I should, since I now have something worth posting. I’ve been using Shane McGarva’s farrier services for about a year, starting when he moved to the area from one of the northern most counties in California. Now that I have had him as our farrier since January of 2014, I can tell you how good his services are from personal experience.
I’ll start by saying that he is a terrific farrier with 35 years of experience. He trims all 5 of my horses with excellent skills that are done beautifully, neatly and lasts because of the beveled edges he does to reduce/​eliminate chipping. I have a horse that needs therapeutic shoes that Shane puts on expertly. He cleans up after himself, is easy to talk to, is respectful and a very kind man to people and animals. I am embarrassed to say a few of my herd do not stand as quietly as they should. He has NEVER yelled, hit or been rough to them at all. In fact, one time I was upset with a mare and Shane calmed ME down.
One unique thing about him, is that he has never criticized, or bad mouthed, the work of the previous farrier who did my horses. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard a farrier do this to make themselves look good. Shane just does the best job he can, every time he works. He isn’t afraid to learn from others; he studies books/​the internet, and tries new techniques or products that would benefit the horse. To add to this, he is a terrific trainer as well. I hired him to put a few rides on a super green horse that hadn’t been ridden in years. He did a terrific job, read the horse perfectly and did what was best for that animal, all with a gentle hand. Unfortunately, he doesn’t have a barn he can work out of to implement these job skills full-​time, but if you need to use these skills too… ask him. His prices are very fair and I highly recommend him.