What’s the best way to avoid horse injuries in RDR2?

Horse injuries in Red Dead Redemption 2 can be frustrating and costly, but with proper care and attention, you can minimize the risk of your horse getting hurt. The game mechanics around horse health and injuries are detailed, so understanding them is key to keeping your horse safe. Horses can sustain injuries from falls, collisions, gunfire, or even predator attacks. To avoid these, you need to focus on three main areas: riding carefully, maintaining your horse''s health, and using the right equipment.\n\nFirst, always ride with caution. Avoid galloping at full speed in unfamiliar or rocky terrain, as this increases the risk of tripping or falling. Use the cinematic camera mode sparingly, as it can make it harder to spot obstacles like trees, rocks, or cliffs. When navigating steep slopes or uneven ground, slow down and use the ''calm'' button (L3 or LS) to keep your horse steady. For example, when riding through the Grizzlies or the mountainous regions near Valentine, take your time to avoid sudden drops or collisions with boulders.\n\nSecond, maintain your horse''s health and stamina. A well-fed and rested horse is less likely to panic or stumble. Regularly feed your horse hay, wild carrots, or other horse provisions to keep its cores full. Use horse tonics or stimulants to boost stamina during long rides. Groom your horse frequently to improve its bonding level, which reduces the chance of it bucking you off during dangerous situations. For instance, if you''re hunting predators like wolves or cougars in Big Valley, a high bonding level will help your horse stay calm and avoid injuries.\n\nThird, equip your horse with the right gear. Saddles and stirrups can significantly improve your horse''s stamina and health regeneration. The best saddles, like the Panther Trail Saddle or the Rattlesnake Vaquero Saddle, provide excellent bonuses and can be crafted or purchased at stables. Stirrups like the Hooded Stirrups further enhance these benefits. Additionally, always carry Horse Reviver in your inventory to quickly heal your horse if it gets injured. This is especially important during missions or when traveling through dangerous areas like Roanoke Ridge, where ambushes are common.\n\nTo avoid gunfire-related injuries, keep your horse out of combat zones whenever possible. If you''re engaging in a shootout, dismount and take cover, leaving your horse at a safe distance. For example, during the mission ''Pouring Forth Oil'' in Chapter 2, park your horse behind cover before approaching the oil wagon to prevent it from getting shot. Similarly, when hunting predators, use bait or long-range weapons to keep your horse safe from attacks.\n\nFinally, always be prepared for emergencies. Carry Horse Reviver, Horse Ointment, and other healing items in your satchel. If your horse does get injured, quickly dismount and administer the appropriate item to prevent further damage. For example, if your horse trips and falls during a chase, immediately use Horse Ointment to heal any wounds and restore its health.\n\nBy following these steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of horse injuries in Red Dead Redemption 2. Ride carefully, maintain your horse''s health, equip it with the best gear, and always be prepared for emergencies. With these tips, you''ll keep your trusty steed safe and ready for any adventure.