True or False: Steady training in veterinary care can effectively reduce a horse's FAS, even with limited time dedicated per interaction.

Steady training in veterinary care can indeed be effective in reducing a horse's Fear, Anxiety, and Stress (FAS), even when the time dedicated to each interaction is limited. The principle behind this is that consistent and gradual exposure to veterinary procedures, paired with positive reinforcement, helps to build the horse's confidence and trust in the handler. This process can make the horse less reactive and more relaxed during veterinary visits.

The key factors at play include the horse’s ability to learn and form associations with specific experiences. When a horse consistently receives calm handling and positive outcomes during veterinary interactions, it begins to associate these situations with safety and comfort. Therefore, even brief, regular interactions can lead to long-term improvements in the horse's response to veterinary care, leading to a decrease in fear and anxiety.

This approach aligns with the Fear Free methodology, which emphasizes reducing aversive experiences and promoting positive, rewarding encounters in all aspects of care. Thus, steady training becomes a vital tool for veterinary professionals to improve the overall experience for both the horse and the caregiver.