More than 400 animals have been rescued from a sanctuary in San Diego County after authorities discovered serious welfare concerns at the property.
The rescue took place at Villa Chardonnay, a large animal sanctuary in Julian, California, which had been operating for more than two decades. According to the San Diego Humane Society, the animals were found living in poor conditions, with signs of malnutrition, untreated injuries, and a lack of proper care.
The operation included the rescue of horses, dogs, cats, goats, pigs, chickens, ducks, and geese. Officials described it as one of the largest and most complicated rescue efforts the organization has ever handled.
Villa Chardonnay had previously presented itself as a safe home for animals that had been abandoned, neglected, or abused. However, concerns about the facility had reportedly existed for some time. The sanctuary also filed for bankruptcy last year, and a court-appointed trustee later moved to transfer the animals into the care of the San Diego Humane Society.
Rescue teams are now working to stabilize the animals and provide them with veterinary care. The Humane Society said its main focus is making sure the animals are safe, treated, and given the care they need after suffering from long-term neglect.