True or False: Horses cannot learn to associate positive experiences with veterinary visits.

The statement that horses cannot learn to associate positive experiences with veterinary visits is false. Horses are capable of forming positive associations through their experiences, including those related to veterinary care. This ability to create positive memories and associations is essential in the context of Fear Free practices, which emphasize reducing stress and promoting well-being during veterinary interactions.

When horses experience gentle handling, positive reinforcement, and low-stress environments during veterinary visits, they can learn to associate these situations with comfort and safety rather than fear or anxiety. This learning process is similar to classical conditioning, where the presence of a veterinarian or a specific environment can trigger a calming response if the preceding experiences have been positive.

By fostering a positive environment, veterinary professionals can help horses become more relaxed and cooperative during future visits, ultimately enhancing their overall experience and reducing anxiety related to healthcare.