13 Pets Rescued From Hoarder-Like Conditions At Abandoned Apartment In North County

VISTA, CA — Thirteen pets were recused from an abandoned apartment in northern San Diego County.

Eleven dogs and two cats were found living in hoarding-like conditions at an apartment in Vista, according to San Diego Humane Society. The four-day rescue operation began after the property's landlord contacted authorities, reporting that the tenant had not been seen for several weeks.

With assistance from the San Diego County Sheriff's Department, officers entered the two-bedroom apartment Wednesday and found dogs hiding under beds and furniture.

The rescue was extremely challenging due to the amount of trash and debris filling the apartment, according to San Diego Humane Society. The dogs had created tunnels to move around inside the unit, which was stacked floor-to-ceiling with household items.

The multi-day effort required additional staff, large dumpsters and deep cleaning, San Diego Humane Society officials said.

The small dogs, including Pomeranians and Chihuahuas, were frightened and in poor condition, with fleas, skin issues and overgrown nails, officials said.

They were receiving medical care at San Diego Humane Society's Oceanside campus and have been placed under emergency boarding status as officers continue to investigate this case. The team also plans to continue to use traps and cameras to ensure all animals have been rescued from the property.

"This is a heartbreaking case, but we are grateful these animals are finally safe," San Diego Humane Society Chief of Humane Law Enforcement Jace Huggins said. "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."

The mass intake comes at a time when San Diego Humane Society is already at record levels of dog capacity, officials said. With the addition of the Vista rescue, the organization is now caring for 792 dogs.