How do I prevent my horse from dying in Red Dead Redemption 2?

Preventing your horse from dying in Red Dead Redemption 2 is crucial, as your horse is your primary mode of transportation and a loyal companion. The game features a realistic horse care system, meaning you must actively maintain your horse''s health, stamina, and bond to ensure its survival. Here’s a detailed guide on how to keep your horse alive and thriving.\n\nFirst, always monitor your horse’s health and stamina cores. These are displayed in the bottom-left corner of the screen when riding or near your horse. The health core determines how much damage your horse can take before dying, while the stamina core affects how long it can run or gallop. To replenish these cores, feed your horse regularly. You can use items like hay, wild carrots, or purchased horse meals from stables or general stores. For example, wild carrots can be found in the wild near Valentine or other grassy areas, making them a free and effective option.\n\nSecond, avoid dangerous situations that could harm your horse. Horses can die from gunfire, falls, or predator attacks. Always be cautious when riding through rocky terrain or near cliffs, as a fall can instantly kill your horse. If you’re in a gunfight, try to keep your horse at a safe distance or use the ‘Flee’ command by holding the ‘Call Horse’ button and selecting the option. For example, during missions like the O’Driscoll ambush near Valentine, dismount and take cover to prevent your horse from being shot.\n\nThird, build a strong bond with your horse. Bonding increases your horse’s stats and makes it more responsive to commands. You can bond with your horse by petting, brushing, feeding, and leading it. To brush your horse, approach it and hold the appropriate button (e.g., L2 on PlayStation). Leading your horse by holding the ‘Lead Horse’ button while walking also increases bonding. A higher bond level unlocks abilities like rearing, skidding turns, and better stamina recovery, which can help you avoid accidents.\n\nFourth, always carry Horse Reviver in your inventory. This item is essential for reviving your horse if it gets critically injured. You can purchase Horse Reviver from general stores or stables for around $4.50. Keep at least one bottle in your satchel at all times. For example, if your horse is shot during a mission, quickly dismount, open your satchel, and administer the Horse Reviver to save it. Without this item, your horse will die permanently, and you’ll lose all progress in bonding and upgrades.\n\nFifth, stable your horse when not in use. Stables provide a safe environment for your horse and allow you to customize its appearance and equipment. You can find stables in towns like Valentine, Saint Denis, and Strawberry. Stabling your horse also prevents it from wandering off or getting injured while you’re away. For example, if you’re planning to explore on foot or engage in risky activities, stable your horse to ensure its safety.\n\nFinally, upgrade your horse’s equipment. Purchasing better saddles, stirrups, and blankets from stables can improve your horse’s stamina and health regeneration. For example, the Improved Saddle, available at stables for around $150, significantly boosts stamina recovery. Additionally, equip your horse with a saddlebag to carry more items, which can be useful during long journeys.\n\nIn summary, preventing your horse from dying requires a combination of regular care, situational awareness, and proper preparation. Feed and groom your horse, avoid dangerous environments, carry Horse Reviver, stable your horse when necessary, and upgrade its equipment. By following these steps, you’ll ensure your horse remains a reliable companion throughout your journey in Red Dead Redemption 2.