Humane Society rescues 13 pets from abandoned, hoarder-like Vista apartment

VISTA, Calif. (FOX 5/KUSI) -- San Diego Humane Society (SDHS) Law Enforcement rescued 11 dogs and two cats from an abandoned two-bedroom Vista apartment this week.

The animals' condition came to light after the property’s landlord reported to the San Diego Sheriff’s Department that they had not seen their tenant for several weeks, the San Diego Humane Society reports. Sheriffs and Humane Society Law Enforcement entered the unit on Oct. 1 and began a challenging rescue mission that took four days to complete.

As officers arrived at the home, they discovered an alarming scene: over a dozen animals hidden in a maze of furniture and filth piled up from floor to ceiling. For weeks, the animals, including Chihuahuas and Pomeranians, had navigated the hoarder-like conditions through tunnels dug in the trash.

Covered in fleas and suffering from skin issues and overgrown nails, the pets were taken to SDHS’s Oceanside Campus and placed under Emergency Boarding Status as Humane Officers continue to investigate the case.

Due to the amount of debris in the unit, the Humane Society said it is possible that more animals are trapped on the property. The team will continue to use traps and cameras to make sure all four-legged friends are rescued.

“This is a heartbreaking case, but we are grateful these animals are finally safe,” said San Diego Humane Society Chief of Humane Law Enforcement Jace Huggins. “Sadly, situations like this happen when pet owners become overwhelmed or face personal challenges. If you or someone you know is struggling to care for pets, please reach out for help before it gets out of control.”

This rescue comes at a time when SDHS is at record levels of capacity. Counting the Vista pets, the organization is currently caring for 792 dogs.

To help these animals find homes, adoption fees for adult dogs and cats are just $50 through Oct. 15, during BISSELL Pet Foundation’s Empty the Shelters event. Additionally, San Diegans can foster or donate to help take care of these abandoned pets.

Visit sdhumane.org or San Diego Humane Society’s campuses in El Cajon, Escondido, Oceanside or San Diego on Tuesdays through Sundays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. to learn more.