What’s the best method to keep my horse healthy and avoid losing it?

Keeping your horse healthy and avoiding its loss in Red Dead Redemption 2 is crucial for a smooth gameplay experience. Horses are not just transportation; they are companions that require care and attention. To ensure your horse stays in top condition, you need to focus on feeding, grooming, bonding, and protecting it from harm.\n\nFirst, always feed your horse regularly. Horses in RDR2 have a core stamina and health system that depletes over time. You can replenish these cores by feeding your horse hay, wild carrots, or other horse-specific foods. Wild carrots can be found in the open world, particularly in areas like Big Valley or near the Dakota River. Purchasing hay or other feed from stables or general stores is also a reliable option. Keep an eye on your horse''s cores in the player menu to ensure they are not running low.\n\nGrooming is another essential aspect of horse care. Dirt and mud can accumulate on your horse, reducing its stamina regeneration rate. Use a horse brush, which can be purchased from stables or general stores, to clean your horse regularly. Grooming not only improves stamina but also increases your bond level with the horse. A higher bond level unlocks better abilities, such as increased health and stamina, as well as improved handling.\n\nBonding with your horse is critical for its overall performance. You can increase your bond by petting, feeding, and leading your horse. To pet your horse, approach it and press the appropriate button (L3 on PlayStation, LS on Xbox). Leading your horse by holding the lead rope and walking with it also boosts bonding. Additionally, avoid actions that decrease bonding, such as running your horse into obstacles or overworking it. A strong bond ensures your horse responds better to commands and is less likely to flee during dangerous situations.\n\nProtecting your horse from harm is equally important. Always keep your horse out of dangerous areas, such as gunfights or predator-infested zones. If you find yourself in a shootout, make sure to hitch your horse to a post or keep it at a safe distance. Predators like wolves or cougars can attack your horse, so be cautious when exploring wilderness areas like Tall Trees or Roanoke Ridge. If your horse is injured, use horse reviver, which can be purchased from stables or general stores, to heal it immediately.\n\nAnother key mechanic is the Horse Insurance feature, available at stables. Purchasing insurance ensures that if your horse dies, it will respawn at no additional cost. While this is optional, it is highly recommended for rare or high-tier horses. Additionally, always carry a backup horse saddle in your inventory. If your primary horse dies, you can quickly equip the saddle on a new horse to maintain your inventory and progress.\n\nFinally, avoid reckless behavior that could lead to your horse''s death. For example, galloping through rocky terrain or jumping off cliffs can result in fatal injuries. Always assess the environment before making risky moves. If you are unsure about a path, dismount and scout ahead on foot. This cautious approach will save you from losing your horse and the frustration of starting over with a new one.\n\nIn summary, keeping your horse healthy and safe in Red Dead Redemption 2 requires a combination of feeding, grooming, bonding, and protection. By following these steps and being mindful of your horse''s needs, you can ensure it remains a loyal and reliable companion throughout your journey.