Veterinary college announces farrier, equine podiatry services

Travis Burns, of Marshall, Va., has joined the Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine at Virginia Tech as a full-time farrier. Burns' arrival also brings the addition of equine podiatry services in the Veterinary Teaching Hospital.

In his new position, Burns will offer specialized shoeing and hoof care for horses.

Proper treatment and care of a horse’s hoof is essential to the overall health of the animal, according to Dr. David Hodgson, head of the Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences.

“Correctly fitting shoes and properly trimmed and balanced hooves are essential to preventing lameness and other maladies in horses,” said Hodgson. “We are very pleased to welcome Travis to our hospital and department, and we look forward to his arrival enhancing our ties to the local community of farriers.”

Burns will work closely with other members of the Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, including Dr. Scott Pleasant, to further enhance the overall preventive health care package offered to the Veterinary Teaching Hospital’s patients, clients, and referring veterinarians. Pleasant is a leading veterinary advocate of appropriate hoof care for horses, according to Hodgson.

Burns completed training at the North Carolina School of Horseshoeing, and he received his bachelor’s degree in animal science from North Carolina State University. He most recently served as a farrier with Forging Ahead Farrier Associates LLC.

For farrier appointments or for more information, call (540) 231-4621.

Written by Christy Jackson.