How do I avoid losing my horse during a mission with time pressure?

Losing your horse during a time-sensitive mission in Red Dead Redemption 2 can be frustrating, but with proper preparation and strategy, you can avoid this issue. Horses are essential for fast travel, combat, and carrying items, so keeping them safe is crucial. Here’s a detailed guide to help you avoid losing your horse during high-pressure missions.\n\nFirst, always ensure your horse is in good condition before starting a mission. Feed it regularly with hay, wild carrots, or horse meal to keep its cores full. A well-fed horse has better stamina and health, which is vital during intense missions. Additionally, brush your horse to maintain its cleanliness and bond level. A higher bond level improves your horse’s responsiveness and reduces the chances of it panicking or running away during combat or dangerous situations.\n\nDuring missions with time pressure, pay attention to the environment. If the mission involves combat, position your horse in a safe spot away from gunfire or enemies. For example, in missions like ''Pouring Forth Oil'' or ''The Sheep and the Goats,'' you can tie your horse to a tree or leave it in a hidden area before engaging in action. This prevents your horse from getting injured or spooked by explosions or gunfire.\n\nAnother key mechanic is using the ''Flee'' command. If you anticipate a dangerous situation, such as a shootout or chase, whistle for your horse to follow you briefly, then use the ''Flee'' command (hold L1/LB and select ''Flee'') to send it away. Your horse will retreat to a safe distance and wait for you to call it back later. This is particularly useful in missions like ''The Fine Joys of Tobacco,'' where enemies may target your horse.\n\nIf your horse does get injured during a mission, always carry Horse Reviver in your inventory. This item can save your horse from death if it goes down. You can purchase Horse Reviver from general stores or craft it using specific herbs. Keep at least two bottles on hand for emergencies. Additionally, equip your horse with a good saddle and stirrups to improve its stamina and health regeneration, making it more resilient during tough missions.\n\nFor missions involving chases or fast travel, such as ''The First Shall Be Last,'' make sure your horse has high stamina. Use the ''Calm'' button (L3/LS) while riding to restore stamina and keep your horse from tiring out. If your horse does get left behind, you can use the ''Call Horse'' whistle (up on the D-pad) to summon it back, provided it’s within range and not blocked by obstacles.\n\nFinally, always have a backup plan. If you lose your horse during a mission, you can temporarily use a wild horse or steal one from an NPC. However, these horses won’t have the same bond level or stats as your primary horse, so this should only be a last resort. To avoid this, save your game manually before starting a mission. If something goes wrong, you can reload and try again.\n\nIn summary, avoid losing your horse by keeping it healthy, positioning it safely, using the ''Flee'' command, carrying Horse Reviver, and equipping it with the best gear. These strategies will help you maintain control over your horse and complete time-sensitive missions successfully.