Horses’ Haven, a rescue group in Howell, Michigan, has expressed disappointment after a Clinton County court ordered the return of a severely neglected pony named RC to its original owner. The pony was initially seized due to near-death condition, with a body condition score of one, covered in burs, and unable to see properly. Despite significant recovery progress over six months at the rescue, the county prosecutor decided to return RC to his elderly owners, citing veterinary and care records, and the owners’ long history with the pony. The decision was made considering the owners’ circumstances, including one being hospitalized and the other providing care for their spouse.

The prosecutor’s office assured that Animal Control will regularly monitor RC’s care and provide education to the owners on managing an aging horse. They emphasized that the owners have paid for the pony’s care at Horses’ Haven and are committed to providing proper care under supervision. However, Horses’ Haven’s Executive Director, Kristine Dvonch, remains concerned, arguing that veterinary visits alone do not guarantee proper care and that her offer to purchase the pony was declined. The office stated that if Animal Control finds the owners unable to provide adequate care, further action will be taken.