Now shoein' horses is a backbreakin' job,
That can't be done by any old slob.
Yet it looks so easy with such good pay,
But after one try most turn with dismay.

It takes a man, whether short or tall.
One with muscles to stand the brawl.
He must have the knack to handle a horse.
And if he gets hurt, still have no remorse.

It's nice to collect for the one that just stood.
But he must take the bad as well as the good.
To know you can shoe them in spite of the fight
Makes the sweat and sore muscles all right.

A shoer is a laborer, craftsman and artist,
But a horse psychiatrist is what's the hardest.
With a temper that's generally held in control,
In spite of some horse's dirty black soul.

The finished job must stand on its own.
Guaranteed reset if the shoe gets thrown.
A shoer is judged by the set of the shoe.
He'll stand by his work, how about you?

Editor's Note: This is taken from the book, "The Cowboy Life: In Short Stories and Poems," by J'Wayne "Mac" McArthur. The book is 125 pages. Price: $11.50 (shipping is included in price). Order from: J'Wayne McArthur, 535 East 380 South, Smithfield, UT 84335. Phone: 435/563-5692.

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