The San Diego Humane Society carried out a large-scale rescue operation Friday at a sanctuary in Julian, where authorities found more than 100 cats and at least 150 horses, along with dogs, donkeys, alpacas, geese, chickens, roosters, turkeys, goats, peacocks, ravens, and a crow.
The operation was conducted alongside the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department after a search warrant was executed.
“This is one of the largest and most complex rescues our organization has ever undertaken. We don’t yet have a total count of the animals on-site,” the organization stated.
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The case was transferred to the Humane Society on April 24 by the County Department of Animal Services. The rescue followed a recent inspection in which investigators identified conditions that led to legal action.
“While prior reports had been received regarding the property, they did not establish probable cause for action.,” the organization explained. “Earlier this month, however, we were able to access the property alongside the Department of Animal Services and identified multiple deficiencies in the care of the animals. This new information provided sufficient probable cause to pursue legal action and ensure these animals receive the care they need.”
Specialized personnel responded to the property to provide immediate care to the animals. The Humane Societies of Pasadena and Marin, as well as the Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control, also participated in the rescue effort.
In the wake of the operation, the San Diego Humane Society is asking for community support to help cover the costs. Donations can be made at https://sdhumane.org/…/emergency-updates/emergency-rescue/. Funds will go toward life-saving medical care, safe shelter, and a second chance for the rescued animals.
