Authorities became aware of the Aguanga home while investigating the Nixon Fire in Riverside County. Animal Services later found the pets in horrific conditions and rescued them.
More than 100 neglected animals, from dogs and horses to birds and “pet cockroaches,” were rescued from a Southern California home.
The property was discovered after the Nixon Fire, which burned over 2,000 acres of land in Riverside County beginning on July 29. While evacuating people from the fire, a Riverside County Sheriff’s deputy noticed the home in the town of Aguanga and notified county animal control officials.
When animal control officials arrived at the property on Wednesday, they found dozens of animals being kept in horrific conditions, including three horses, six goats and numerous dogs, according to a news release from the Riverside County Animal Control Department.
Among other pets: parakeets, mice, chickens
Other animals rescued from the property included chickens, mice, parakeets, cockatiels, quail, geese, a turkey and so-called “pet cockroaches.”
“This was one of our most unusual investigations, considering how many animals need our help right now,” said Erin Gettis, director of animal services, in a statement.
Several dogs believed to have come from the property were also rescued prior to this week’s seizure.
Many of the rescued animals were taken to the San Jacinto Valley Animal Campus for care and recovery. A miniature horse and a sheep, believed to be a pair, were taken to the county animal shelter, according to Animal Services.
Owner was not present
According to Animal Services, the homeowner was not present when the animals were seized and did not respond to two notices posted on the property in late July.
The county’s animal control agency said it will file charges of aggravated animal cruelty once it provides evidence to the Riverside County District Attorney’s Office.
Max Hauptman is a trending reporter for USA TODAY. Reach him at [email protected]
