What role do Pre-visit preparations (PVPs) play in managing fear in horses?

Pre-visit preparations (PVPs) are essential in managing fear in horses by significantly helping to reduce stress prior to a veterinary visit. These preparations are designed to create a more familiar and less intimidating environment for the horse, thereby addressing and alleviating any anxiety or apprehension it may have about the impending examination or treatment.

Effective PVPs often include familiarizing the horse with the veterinary facility and the personnel, providing positive reinforcement through treats or rewards, and allowing for a gradual acclimatization to the equipment and the overall experience. By using these strategies, the horse can develop positive associations with what might otherwise be perceived as threatening situations, leading to calmer and more manageable behavior during the veterinary visit.

This proactive approach acknowledges the sensitivity of horses to stress-inducing environments and emphasizes the importance of minimizing fear to promote better health outcomes and cooperation during examinations or treatments.