13 pets rescued from abandoned apartment in Vista

The San Diego Humane Society conducted a four-day rescue operation at an abandoned Vista apartment last week, rescuing 11 dogs and two cats from a home piled high with household items, according to authorities.

The landlord notified officials after not seeing the tenant in the two-bedroom apartment for several weeks. Humane Society law enforcement officers responded Wednesday and worked through Saturday, rescuing animals from “hoarding-like conditions,” a Humane Society spokesperson said.

Officials said it was challenging work because of the amount of trash and debris that filled the apartment.

The dogs had created tunnels to move around inside the unit. Some were found hiding under beds and furniture. For days, workers filled up large dumpsters.

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

They were brought to the Humane Society’s Oceanside campus and have been placed under emergency boarding status as officers investigate the case. The team plans to continue using 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,” said Jace Huggins, chief of Humane Law Enforcement. “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 the Humane Society is already caring for a record level of animals. The addition of the Vista animals pushes the number of dogs under its care to 792.

The group said public support is urgently needed to adopt or foster to help make space and provide care for animals in need. Donations are accepted at sdhumane.org/.