Which of the following is NOT a core concept of Fear Free practice applicable to horses?

The concept of "Ear twitch" is not aligned with the core principles of Fear Free practice applicable to horses. Fear Free practice emphasizes minimizing fear and anxiety in animals during veterinary care, and it promotes methods that ensure the animal's comfort and well-being.

The "considerate approach" involves being mindful of how our actions and the environment can affect a horse's emotional state, striving to create a positive experience during veterinary visits. The "touch gradient" acknowledges that different areas of the horse's body have varying sensitivity and that a gradual approach to handling should be utilized to avoid startling the animal. "Gentle control" refers to using the least invasive methods of restraint that still provide safety for both the horse and the veterinary team, thus respecting the horse’s needs and preferences.

In contrast, the use of an ear twitch is often seen as a form of physical restraint that can induce stress and fear in horses. Instead of supporting a calm and comforting approach, ear twitches can escalate anxiety, making them incompatible with the overarching goals of a Fear Free practice, which seeks to enhance the emotional welfare of equines during veterinary care.