Hundreds of animals have been rescued from a nightmare “sanctuary” where they were found living in shocking conditions.
More than 500 animals – including over 350 cats, around 165 horses and ponies, and more than 30 dogs – were discovered in what officials say was a case of neglect and hoarding.
The grim find was made at a 40-acre property known as Villa Chardonnay Horses With Wings near Julian, California.
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The case was transferred from San Diego County Animal Services to San Diego Humane Society on April 24, 2026, due to the massive scale of the rescue and complications linked to an ongoing bankruptcy case.
The operation is now in its fifth day, with multiple agencies working around the clock at the site.
As teams searched the property, the scale of the horror continued to grow.
Dozens more animals were uncovered, including donkeys, alpacas, goats, pigs, chickens, geese, ravens and even a crow.
Hundreds have already been removed and taken to local shelters, as reported by Need To Know.
Staff have been working for hours each day to clear the site and provide urgent care, with a vet present throughout.
Officials said many of the animals were suffering severe neglect.
They were found malnourished, emaciated and riddled with untreated wounds and infections, including ringworm and Giardia.
Despite desperate efforts to save them, some animals were so badly affected that they had to be put down.
This included four horses, a pony and a bull in extreme distress.
A kitten also died while receiving care.
Strict rules mean multiple vets must agree euthanasia is the only humane option.
Gary Weitzman, president and CEO of the organisation, said: “It truly is appalling.
“There is no question at all about the neglect, at the very least, that occurred out there.
“I am very happy that these animals have a new chance at life.”
The rescue mission is still ongoing.
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