What’s the best way to keep my horse calm during a thunderstorm?

Keeping your horse calm during a thunderstorm in Red Dead Redemption 2 is crucial to avoid losing control or having your horse flee. Thunderstorms can spook horses, causing them to buck you off or run away, which can be especially problematic if you''re in a dangerous area or far from a stable. To manage this, you need to understand the game mechanics and take specific actions to calm your horse.\n\nFirst, always keep an eye on the weather forecast. The game provides subtle hints about incoming storms, such as darkening skies and distant thunder. If you notice these signs, prepare by finding a safe location, such as a stable, camp, or sheltered area. Stables are ideal because they allow you to board your horse, keeping it safe from the storm. If you''re near a town like Valentine or Saint Denis, head to the nearest stable immediately.\n\nIf you''re caught in the open during a thunderstorm, focus on calming your horse. Press and hold the ''Calm'' button (L3 on PlayStation or LS on Xbox) while riding or standing near your horse. This action reassures your horse and reduces its fear level. Additionally, avoid galloping or sprinting, as this can increase your horse''s anxiety. Instead, walk or trot slowly to minimize stress.\n\nAnother effective strategy is to dismount and lead your horse by holding the ''Lead'' button (Triangle on PlayStation or Y on Xbox). This allows you to guide your horse manually, which can be less stressful for the animal. While leading, continue to calm your horse periodically. This method is particularly useful in dense forests or rocky terrain where visibility is low, and your horse might struggle to navigate.\n\nFeeding and grooming your horse can also help keep it calm. Use items like Hay, Carrots, or Sugar Cubes to boost your horse''s health and stamina cores, which indirectly improves its mood. Grooming your horse with a brush (found in your inventory) removes dirt and increases bonding, making it less likely to panic during stressful situations like thunderstorms.\n\nIf your horse does get spooked and bucks you off, don''t panic. Immediately whistle for your horse using the ''Call Horse'' button (Up on the D-pad). If your horse is too far or doesn''t respond, use a Horse Reviver tonic to restore its health and calm it down. Always carry a few of these tonics in your inventory for emergencies.\n\nFinally, consider your horse''s bonding level. A higher bonding level (up to level 4) makes your horse more resilient to stress. Spend time bonding by patting, feeding, and leading your horse regularly. This investment pays off during storms, as a well-bonded horse is less likely to flee or panic.\n\nIn summary, the best way to keep your horse calm during a thunderstorm is to monitor the weather, use the ''Calm'' button frequently, lead your horse manually, feed and groom it, and maintain a high bonding level. By following these steps, you can ensure your horse remains safe and under control, even in the most intense storms.