MERCED COUNTY, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) – California Highway Patrol officers came across three horses trotting along a highway in Merced County early Tuesday morning – and guided them to safety.

According to CHP, the three horses, two brown and one palomino, were spotted walking down Highway 165. Officers say the horses were seemingly unaware of the rules of the road.

Officers guided the horses off the highway, ensuring the safety of both the horses and motorists.

According to CHP, the horses were returned to their owner.

CHP says while this incident ended safely, it serves as a reminder to drivers to always expect the unexpected. They also say to drive carefully because you never know when “you’ll have to yield to a horse on a joyride.”