How do I unlock the Horse Bonding Level 7 perk?

Unlocking Horse Bonding Level 7 in Red Dead Redemption 2 is a rewarding but time-intensive process that requires consistent care and interaction with your horse. Bonding with your horse is essential for improving its stats, such as health, stamina, and responsiveness, and reaching Level 7 unlocks the ultimate perk: your horse will no longer flee during combat or dangerous situations. This guide will walk you through the mechanics, steps, and tips to achieve this milestone.\n\nFirst, understand the bonding system. Bonding levels range from 1 to 4 by default, but Level 7 is unlocked through the use of a specific item: the Horse Stimulant Pamphlet. This pamphlet is available for purchase at the Fence in Rhodes or Saint Denis for $350. Once purchased, read the pamphlet from your satchel to unlock the ability to craft Horse Stimulants, which are required to progress beyond Bonding Level 4.\n\nTo increase bonding, you must consistently perform actions that build trust with your horse. These include feeding, grooming, patting, and leading your horse. Each action contributes to the bonding meter, which is visible in the Player menu under the Horse section. Feeding your horse hay, wild carrots, or other horse meals is particularly effective. Grooming your horse with a brush, which can be purchased at stables or general stores, also boosts bonding and keeps your horse clean, improving its overall condition.\n\nLeading your horse on foot is another effective way to increase bonding. Simply dismount, hold the lead button, and walk with your horse for a few minutes. This is especially useful when traveling through towns or areas where riding is restricted. Additionally, patting your horse after calming it during stressful situations, such as encounters with predators or gunfire, will also contribute to bonding.\n\nOnce you reach Bonding Level 4, you can begin using Horse Stimulants to progress further. Crafting Horse Stimulants requires specific ingredients: one Ginseng and one Yarrow. Ginseng can be found in forests, particularly near Roanoke Ridge, while Yarrow is abundant in grassy areas like the Heartlands. Collect these ingredients and craft the stimulants at your campfire or in the wild. Administer the stimulant to your horse by selecting it from your inventory while mounted or near your horse.\n\nReaching Bonding Level 7 requires patience and consistency. You’ll need to administer multiple Horse Stimulants while continuing to perform bonding actions. Each stimulant provides a significant boost to the bonding meter, but the process can take several in-game days. To speed up the process, focus on completing activities that involve your horse, such as hunting, racing, or traveling long distances. These activities naturally increase bonding while also providing other gameplay benefits.\n\nA common challenge is maintaining your horse’s health and stamina during this process. Ensure your horse is well-fed and groomed regularly to prevent its condition from deteriorating. If your horse becomes injured, use Horse Medicine or visit a stable for treatment. Additionally, avoid reckless behavior, such as riding through dangerous terrain or engaging in unnecessary combat, as this can harm your horse and reset bonding progress.\n\nFinally, practical tips for success: always carry a brush and horse meals in your inventory for quick bonding boosts. Use the Horse Stimulants strategically, such as after completing a long journey or a challenging mission, to maximize their effectiveness. If you’re struggling to find ingredients for Horse Stimulants, consider purchasing them from general stores or herbalists. With dedication and care, you’ll unlock the powerful Bonding Level 7 perk, making your horse an unshakable companion in even the most perilous situations.