ABOUT
Jeremy Zackowski, a Florida native, has been around horses his entire life. Growing up, his dad bred and showed Tennessee Walking horses, and Jeremy’s own childhood mount, Shaker, came from the famous Midnight Sun walker line. Although he was known in the panhandle from a young age as an excellent trainer, he preferred the excitement of the rodeo, building an impressive career riding bulls and saddle broncs in various associations. Jeremy served in the United States Army where he was able to continue rodeoing with the ERCA throughout Germany. After his stint in the US Army, and brief careers as an Army recruiter, then as entertainment in Orlando’s Dixie Stampede, Jeremy settled in Hawthorne, Florida, where he continued his career of training horses.
His love for farriery kicked off when he took a farrier science class with Dr. Barrett at the College of Central Florida. One of his own horses had a chronic thrush and imbalance problem, and Jeremy worked to fix it, sparking his passion for farrier science. After that, he started trimming his horses and spent his senior Co-Op study apprenticing under Kenny Clark, where he continued to study the ins and outs of barefoot trims. From there, his business, Diamond Z Trimming and Shoeing took off, and he now looks after over 400 horses on regular 6-week rotations.
Jeremy graduated cum laude from the College of Central Florida with a degree in Equine Exercise and Physiology and multiple equine certifications. He also attended Casey and Son Horseshoeing School in Georgia, earning his Advanced I Farrier certification. Jeremy is a member of the United Farriers Association and also attends the American Farriers Association International Hoof-Care Summit.
His work shows Jeremy’s passion for healing horses through proper hoof care. In addition, his background in training sets him apart in the way he gently works with his horse clients. His patience and know-how allow him to tackle cases that others might give up on, and he’s earned a reputation for helping horses that would otherwise be left behind.
FARRIER DOG of the YEAR
Phrog Frog Diggity Dog Tyrone Zackowski
Phrog Frog Diggity Dog Tyrone Zackowski (aka P-Diggs), is Jeremy’s charismatic companion and American Farrier Journal’s inaugural Farrier Dog of the Year.
Named after a horse’s frog, Frog Dog defies conventional categorization, embodying a blend of feline agility, raccoon curiosity, and the loyal instincts of a cow dog.
Frog has earned quite a reputation since his election as the Dog of the Year, and his head has continued to grow. While he’s still a well-behaved assistant to Jeremy, his confident no-boundaries swagger and assumption that everyone he meets wants to be kissed in the face will most certainly exempt him from the Show Dog arena.
When he’s not sweeping up hoof chips, Frog indulges in his favorite pastimes. He can often be found attempting to take the wheel of the truck, herding chickens with gusto, or engaging in spirited playdates with every client’s dog he encounters during his busy schedule.
In his downtime, Frog enjoys bonding with his Catahoula brother, Rueben, through lively wrestling matches. A true water enthusiast (looking, not swimming), Frog also assumes the role of captain on Jeremy’s boat as they navigate the serene lakes of Melrose, FL.
With his unique blend of characteristics and unwavering loyalty, P-Diggs is not just a pet but a cherished member of the community, bringing joy and laughter wherever his adventures take him. If you’re lucky enough to fit on Jeremy’s schedule, you’ll likely meet this handsome hound during your trim appointment. Feel free to share a treat or ask for his autograph – he’s happy to oblige!
