A cow was brought to the Hooved Animal Humane Society in Woodstock after it escaped from students who were using it as part of a senior prank in Niles on April 27, 2023. A different cow escaped from its owner in unincorporated Harvard on Thursday. | File Photo: Joe Shuman/J. Shuman Photography (2023)

A cow was safely returned to its owner after it escaped and caused a road closure on Route 173 near Harvard, the sheriff’s office said.

The McHenry County Sheriff’s Office sent an alert around 11:30 a.m. Thursday about animals on the loose.

The alert said Route 173 was closed between Harvard Hills Road and Altenburg Road in unincorporated Harvard.

“Please use an alternative route to travel in this area,” the alert said.

McHenry County Sheriff’s Office Communication Specialist Emily Matusek-Baker said deputies encountered a loose cow in the area.

The cow was reported to be in the roadway at one point and later walked off the roadway as deputies stood by.

The heifer was eventually safely herded back to her home by deputies, Matusek-Baker said.

Route 173 between Harvard Hills Road and Altenburg Road was reopened just before 12 p.m. Thursday.

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