A Premier Maryland Farrier Service
Richard Mercer
American Farrier's Association
Keymar, MD 21757
ph: 301-712-6294
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Old Line State Forge is dedicated to providing comprehensive and quality hoof care to discerning owners and their equine partners residing in Central Maryland. Travel to locations outside the Central Maryland area is available by special arrangement.
Routine, corrective or prescription shoeing, we are prepared to meet your horse's needs. Committed to compassionate and reliable service, we are able to achieve optimal performance in most breeds and disciplines. Including draft breeds.
In addition, Richard is available to evaluate your foals for any possible limb deviations. If needed, he can head off possible problems by balanced trimming and the application of orthotics if necessary.
Please take some time and familiarize yourself with our "home on the web". We encourage and appreciate any feedback you may have.
Make sure to return often to check for updates. As there may be changes in our services, as well as additions or changes to the "Stuff", "Equine Research" and "Links" pages. Pictures of intersting cases may also be added periodically.
Our Philosophy
A true farrier's knowledge and desire for the horse's well being needs to be about more than the simple nailing of a shoe to the bottom of the hoof !

Our goal, first and foremost, is to keep your horse comfortable and productive.
To achieve this we provide knowledgeable, quality and reliable hoof care. Hoof care which is customized and tailored to the individual equine athlete. Remember, each horse is different.
Because Richard received his formal education at Cornell University Farrier School, his knowledge of the equine limb and foot is quite extensive.
He is well versed in it's physical structure and bio-mechanical functions. In case of failure of these functions, he is fully prepared to apply any protocol needed to aid in the recovery and hopeful return to soundness.
Richard takes great pride in his craftsmanship and inferior work is not accepted.
He firmly believes one should look at the entire horse, not just the foot, before a decision can be made on the proper hoof care protocol. As stated above, being a professional farrier is not only about nailing a shoe to the bottom of the hoof. It is about understanding the mechanics of the equine limb and how they relate and translate to the foot.
The correct hoof care protocol is about enabling the horse to perform to his full potential. No matter what discipline!
At the time of Richard's first visit, your horse will be fully evaluated for it's conformation. Previous history and intended use will be discussed.
Any problems you may have noticed or any concerns you may have, are going to be addressed.
Only after gathering all the facts will Richard recommend and implement a hoof care/shoeing protocol.
We strive to keep you, the owner, involved and educated in every aspect of your horse's hoof care.
Our mission is to keep you and your horse happy and "sound". Your equine friend will be treated with the respect and professionalism every horse deserves.
We pride ourselves in being a vital part of your horse's health care team and are looking forward to a long lasting relationship with you and your horse!
Are You Ready To Improve Your Horse's Performance?
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Are You Ready For A Better Ride?
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Do You Want The Best For Your Horse?
Then It's Time You Called !
We are more than happy to answer any questions you may have and are looking forward to talking with you!


Copyright 2009 OldLineStateForge. All rights reserved.
Keymar, MD 21757
ph: 301-712-6294
oldlines