What’s the best way to keep my horse from being scared by fire?

In Red Dead Redemption 2, horses are essential companions, but they can easily become scared or agitated by fire, which can lead to them bucking you off or running away. To avoid losing your horse due to fire-related panic, it’s important to understand the game mechanics and take proactive steps to manage your horse’s behavior.\n\nFirst, horses in RDR2 have a Bonding Level system, which ranges from Level 1 to Level 4. A higher Bonding Level makes your horse more resilient to fear, including fire. To increase your Bonding Level, spend time with your horse by feeding it, brushing it, and leading it on foot. Additionally, patting your horse regularly and calming it during stressful situations will improve its trust in you. A Level 4 horse is far less likely to panic when exposed to fire compared to a Level 1 horse.\n\nWhen approaching areas with fire, such as campfires, burning buildings, or enemy camps, keep your horse at a safe distance. Use the ''Horse Stay'' command by holding the ''Call Horse'' button (L2/LT) and selecting ''Stay'' from the radial menu. This ensures your horse remains stationary and avoids wandering into dangerous areas. If you’re in a combat situation, dismount and tie your horse to a nearby post or tree using the ''Hitch'' option to prevent it from bolting.\n\nAnother effective strategy is to use the ''Calm'' command when your horse starts to show signs of fear. If you notice your horse’s ears flattening or its head shaking, quickly press the ''Calm'' button (L3/LS on consoles) to soothe it. This action reduces the horse’s fear level and prevents it from bucking you off. Practicing this habit in low-stress environments, such as near small campfires, will help you master the timing and effectiveness of calming your horse.\n\nFor players who frequently encounter fire, consider equipping your horse with the ''Panther Trail Saddle'' or other high-stamina saddles. These saddles improve your horse’s stamina and health, making it more resilient to stress. Additionally, feeding your horse Hay or Wild Carrots before entering fire-prone areas can temporarily boost its health and reduce the likelihood of panic.\n\nIn specific locations like the Braithwaite Manor burning sequence or the oil fields near Valentine, fire is a major hazard. In these scenarios, always dismount and lead your horse manually to a safe spot. Use the environment to your advantage by positioning your horse behind cover, such as large rocks or trees, to shield it from flames and smoke.\n\nFinally, if your horse does get spooked and runs away, use the ''Horse Whistle'' to call it back. Ensure your horse is within hearing range, as the whistle has a limited radius. If your horse is too far, track it using the mini-map or follow its trail until you can safely retrieve it.\n\nBy following these steps and understanding your horse’s behavior, you can minimize the risk of losing your horse to fire. Building a strong bond, using the ''Calm'' command effectively, and keeping your horse at a safe distance are key strategies for success in RDR2.