Humane officers and police saved 11 dogs and two cats from a hoarding situation in an abandoned California apartment.
11 Dogs and 2 Cats Rescued From Hoarding Conditions in Abandoned California Apartment
Eleven dogs and two cats were recently rescued from extreme hoarding conditions in an abandoned California apartment.
With help from the local Sheriff’s Department, staff from the San Diego Humane Society came out to an apartment in Vista, Calif., after its landlord reached out to them, explaining that they hadn't seen their tenant for two weeks.
Inside, the conditions were dire, and the animals had greatly suffered, but happily, the Humane Society was able to save them all, and the organization is now caring for them.
The San Diego Humane Society stepped in to rescue and care for the animals found in the abandoned apartment.
The SD Humane Society shared distressing footage of the rescue mission on social media, with staff in full protective gear sifting through the mountains of belongings in the property to ensure they saved all the animals.
"The rescue was extremely challenging due to the amount of trash and debris filling the two-bedroom apartment," the organization wrote on Instagram.
"More than a dozen pets had created tunnels to move around inside the unit, which was stacked floor to ceiling with household items. Many of the dogs were hiding under beds and furniture, making the rescue a four-day effort that required additional staff, large dumpsters and deep cleaning."
San Diego Humane Society staff went on an intense rescue mission to save 11 dogs and two cats from hoarding conditions in Vista, Calif.
Though this all started as a tragic situation, things are greatly looking up.
"But now, these animals are safe in our care," the Humane Society wrote on October 4. "The small dogs — including Pomeranians and Chihuahuas — are frightened and in poor condition, with fleas, skin issues and overgrown nails. We’re committed to doing everything we can to give them the second chance they deserve while our Humane Officers continue to investigate this case. The team will also use traps and cameras to ensure all animals have been rescued from the property."
Rescuers found two cats in the abandoned apartment.
Unfortunately, the difficulties aren't over for the rescued pets, and the Humane Society requested help from the public to ensure a bright future for them all.
"This rescue comes at a time when we’re already struggling with record numbers of dogs in our shelters," they wrote on Instagram. "Today, we are now caring for 792 dogs, and we desperately need our community’s help. Please adopt, foster or donate to help make space and care for animals in need."
If you'd like to donate, foster and adopt, you can visit the San Diego Human Society's website.
The rescued animals were given care after being rescued from the abandoned apartment.
Judging by the comments section, the community was more than prepared to help.
"Just donated to the supplies list, let’s get these babies safe, and comfy friends! Who needs a new buddy?" commented one person.
"Thank you for everything you do! I just purchased blankets through your Amazon wishlist," said a second.
"What location will the dogs be at. I’d like to foster or possibly adopt," added someone else.
"Can you let me know when they're ready for a home. Id be interested," asked another.
Others thanked the organization for the incredible work they did and continue to do for the sake of these cats and dogs.