400 animals rescued from horrifying conditions at California ‘sanctuary’

By Ben Barry

Hundreds of animals were rescued from “appalling” conditions at a California sanctuary.

The San Diego Humane Society (SDHS) conducted a large-scale rescue operation in Julian, California, last week, saving more than 400 animals.

As of May 4, 2026, rescuers had recovered 334 cats, 30 dogs, 29 chickens, eight ducks, four geese, four turkeys, three roosters, two peahens, one peacock, two ravens, one crow, 12 goats, three pigs and one sheep.

The care, assessment and treatment of horses is still ongoing. The organisation is staffing the property daily with 15 to 20 team members, including an on-site vet.

According to SDHS, conditions at the facility had long raised concerns, and animal welfare groups had repeatedly attempted to investigate the property.

The organization worked with those groups to access and inspect the sanctuary.

Based on veterinary evidence of severe neglect - including emaciation, untreated injuries and lack of basic care - SDHS served a search warrant at the Villa Chardonnay property on May 1, 2026.

Dr. Gary Weitzman, president and CEO of SDHS, said: “It was truly is appalling.

“There is no question about the neglect, at the very least, that occurred there. I am very happy these animals now have a new chance at life.”

The majority of rescued animals showed signs of neglect, according to chief medical officer Dr. Zarah Hedge, including widespread malnutrition, open wounds, ringworm and giardia.

Some animals - including four horses, a pony and a bull - were euthanised to prevent further suffering. One kitten died while in care.

Since the rescue, SDHS has received nearly 100 reports from individuals who believe their animals were boarded or surrendered at the property, and the organisation is working to reunite them with their owners.

“This is one of the largest and most complex rescues our organisation has ever undertaken,” said Jace Huggins, Vice President and Chief of Humane Law Enforcement.

“We are currently managing a 40-acre property to stabilize and care for hundreds of animals who suffered significant neglect.”