California authorities say a San Diego County ranch that billed itself as a haven for animals instead became the site of what may be the region's largest-ever neglect case. More than 400 animals were removed last week from Villa Chardonnay, a 40-acre "forever home" sanctuary in Julian that had filed for bankruptcy in 2023, according to the San Diego Humane Society. According to the Times of San Diego, 334 cats, 30 dogs, 29 chickens, 12 goats, eight ducks, four geese, four turkeys, three pigs, three roosters, two peahens, two ravens, one peacock, one crow, and one sheep have been moved to shelters. The Guardian reports that 165 horses were also rescued after a search warrant was obtained.
Humane Society officials say veterinarians documented extreme thinness, untreated injuries, parasites, and other signs of prolonged lack of care. The Humane Society is now caring for the animals and managing the property while the bankruptcy trustee transfers legal custody. The group says most of the rescued animals showed signs of neglect and some of them, including four horses and a bull, had to be euthanized "to prevent further suffering." San Diego Humane Society president Gary Weitzman said the rescue was unprecedented in the group's 145-year history, the Times reports.
- "It truly is appalling," Weitzman said. "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."
A spokesperson for Villa Chardonnay rejected that characterization, insisting the animals were fed, treated by a veterinarian, and "were like their children," and said the sanctuary's founder and her partner are devastated and want their side heard. No charges have been filed yet, but authorities are reviewing evidence. The Humane Society said there had been concerns about conditions at the facility for years, but animal welfare groups were unable to gain access before the bankruptcy filing.
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