What’s the best way to avoid horse drowning in deep water in RDR2?

Horse drowning is a common issue in Red Dead Redemption 2, especially when traversing rivers, lakes, or other deep bodies of water. Understanding the game mechanics and taking precautions can help you avoid losing your horse. Horses in RDR2 have a stamina bar, which depletes faster when swimming. If the stamina bar runs out, your horse will drown, and you’ll lose it permanently unless it’s insured. To prevent this, always monitor your horse’s stamina and avoid unnecessary risks when crossing water.\n\nFirst, ensure your horse is in good condition before attempting to cross deep water. A well-fed and brushed horse will have higher stamina and health, making it more resilient. You can feed your horse hay, wild carrots, or other provisions found in the game. Additionally, bonding with your horse increases its stamina and health stats. A level 4 bonded horse will perform significantly better in water than a lower-level bonded one.\n\nWhen approaching water, assess its depth. Shallow water, such as streams or ponds, is safe for horses and won’t drain stamina. However, deeper water, like rivers or lakes, requires careful navigation. Look for narrow crossing points or areas with visible land on the other side. For example, crossing the Dakota River near Valentine is safer at its narrowest points rather than attempting to swim across its widest sections.\n\nIf you must cross deep water, use the calm and steady approach. Hold the sprint button (L3 on PlayStation or LS on Xbox) to make your horse swim faster, but avoid overusing it to conserve stamina. Keep an eye on the stamina bar and release the sprint button if it gets too low. You can also use horse stimulants, such as Horse Stimulant or Potent Horse Stimulant, to replenish stamina mid-swim. These items can be purchased from stables or crafted using specific herbs.\n\nIn some cases, it’s better to dismount and swim alongside your horse. This is particularly useful if the water is too deep or the distance is too long. To do this, press the dismount button (Triangle on PlayStation or Y on Xbox) while in water. Your horse will follow you, and you can guide it to safety. This method reduces the risk of drowning, as your horse’s stamina won’t deplete as quickly.\n\nFinally, avoid crossing water during storms or at night, as visibility is reduced, and the risk of accidents increases. If you’re unsure about a crossing, use your map to plan a safer route. For example, instead of swimming across Flat Iron Lake, take the longer route via land to avoid unnecessary risks. By following these tips, you can keep your horse safe and avoid the frustration of losing a trusted companion.\n\nPractical examples include crossing the Kamassa River near Rhodes, where narrow sections make for safer crossings, or avoiding the deep waters of O’Creagh’s Run unless absolutely necessary. Always carry horse stimulants and keep your horse’s bonding level high to ensure it can handle challenging situations. With these strategies, you’ll minimize the risk of horse drowning and enjoy smoother travels across the vast landscapes of RDR2.