Reunions Begin After Massive Julian Animal Rescue Operation

JULIAN, CA — Several animals rescued from a massive animal neglect case in Julian have been reunited with their previous owners as investigators continue sorting through more than 700 animals found on the property, according to San Diego Humane Society.

The reunions took place more than a week after authorities began removing animals from Villa Chardonnay, a sprawling property in Julian where investigators said animals were living in severe neglect conditions.

So far, one dog, one cat and six horses have been returned to previous owners, according to San Diego Humane Society.

• Also see: More Animals Removed, 'Severe Neglect' Conditions Detailed In Ongoing Julian Rescue Case

Among the reunions were two horses, Koa and Chance, which were returned to their original owners in Julian. Chance's owner, Kristina, told the organization it had been nine years since she last saw the horse.

"It has been an absolute whirlwind trying to get reunited with Chance," she said. "I never honestly expected that this was going to happen nine years later, but I am so excited for her to finally get to retire in pasture with me at my home in Paso Robles. She's just going to live the best retired life ever."

Another reunion involved Honey, a senior dog whose original owner drove from Murrieta to reclaim her after the dog's microchip was traced back to her.

According to San Diego Humane Society, Honey had previously been rehomed to another family before eventually being surrendered to Villa Chardonnay. Honey is now missing a front leg and suffering from multiple medical issues.

Officials with San Diego Humane Society said the organization will continue to contact more than 100 people who submitted forms claiming they had surrendered or boarded animals at the property. Owner verification remains ongoing during the active legal investigation.

Staff and volunteers continue to care for animals remaining at the property, with 15 to 20 workers onsite daily, including a veterinarian. Officials are also coordinating farrier support for horses.

At the organization's shelters, veterinarians have completed initial medical exams for all rescued cats. Many cats are being treated for malnutrition, emaciation, open wounds and contagious infections, including ringworm and giardia, officials said.

Since the rescue operation began May 1, more than 700 animals have been found on the property, including 446 cats, 175 horses, 30 dogs, 30 chickens, and dozens of other animals.

San Diego Humane Society, which took over the case from San Diego County Animal Services on April 24, executed a search warrant May 1 at Villa Chardonnay after veterinary evidence documented emaciation, untreated injuries and lack of basic care. A bankruptcy court subsequently granted San Diego Humane Society ownership of all animals on the site, allowing officials to begin medical treatment and long-term care.

The organization said its shelters remain over capacity as the rescue effort continues.