True or False: A horse's first trailer ride should be to a familiar location.

The statement that a horse's first trailer ride should be to a familiar location is false. The rationale behind this is rooted in the principles of acclimatization and gradual exposure to new experiences. Taking a horse to a familiar location for its first trailer ride could reinforce anxiety associated with unfamiliar settings, making the horse more anxious about future rides.

Instead, the focus should be on creating a positive and stress-free experience for the horse's initial journey. A good practice is to start with short trips to unfamiliar nearby locations that are non-threatening and do not overexpose the horse to stressful scenarios. This approach helps the horse learn that traveling by trailer can lead to positive experiences, as it encourages exploration and minimizes anxiety over the unknown.

By prioritizing short, low-stress trips rather than familiar destinations, the horse can gradually build confidence in both the trailer and travel itself. This foundational experience is essential for future trips and helps foster a more relaxed attitude towards trailering.