Lake Hughes, Calif. – Hundreds of dogs and cats were removed from a rural property in Los Angeles County on Friday, in what authorities are calling one of the largest animal rescue operations in the county’s history. The operation, sparked by years of complaints from neighbors about the conditions at the property, involved a search warrant served by the Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control (DACC).
The initial estimate of 700 animals proved high, but officials still documented the rescue of approximately 250 dogs and 66 cats, with the count continuing into the afternoon. The animals were found in conditions described as “filthy” by DACC Director Marcia Mayeda, requiring rescuers to wear protective gear. The large-scale animal rescue underscores the challenges of animal hoarding and the complexities of enforcing animal welfare laws.
Neighbors had long voiced concerns about the property in the 46000 block of 266th Street. David Canfield, 67, who lives nearby, described the sounds emanating from the property as “a big dogfight,” adding, “Very violent.” The persistent barking and unpleasant odors had become a fixture in the area, prompting residents to repeatedly contact authorities.
Years of Complaints Led to Friday’s Raid
The investigation began after the DACC received allegations of animal cruelty, including neglect and overcrowding, at the facility. According to a spokesperson for the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s office, the DACC took the lead on the investigation, with assistance from the District Attorney’s Bureau of Investigation. Two confidential witnesses provided audio and video evidence, which was then presented to a judge to obtain the search warrant, Mayeda explained in a press conference outside the property.
The animals were in the custody of Christine De Anda of Rock N Pawz animal rescue, according to the DACC. Attempts to reach De Anda and Rock N Pawz for comment were unsuccessful. The organization’s website, rocknpawz.org, features images of animals available for adoption and those recently adopted, as well as merchandise for sale.
Mayeda noted that the situation exemplifies a common pattern in animal rescue cases. “They turn into hoarding situations,” she said. “They start with really good intentions, and they’re not able to say no” to taking in more animals.
Rescue Operation and Animal Care
The scale of the rescue required a significant logistical effort. More than 70 Animal Care and Control workers were involved, and the agency sought assistance from neighboring organizations, including spcaLA, Pasadena Humane, and Kern County Animal Services. Veterinary medical staff were on-site to inspect the animals, and those needing medical attention were transported to nearby veterinary hospitals.
The rescued animals are being medically screened at the Lancaster Animal Care Center and will then be dispersed among the county’s seven animal care centers. The DACC announced it would remain open to the public on Sunday, from 11 a.m. To 5 p.m., to facilitate adoptions and discover homes for the rescued animals. “We are urgently requesting the public’s help to support the rescue and rehabilitation of these dogs and cats,” Mayeda said in a statement.
Due to the large influx of animals, the DACC warned of potential longer wait times at its facilities. “Due to a large-scale animal rescue operation involving all seven of our Animal Care Centers, some services may experience longer wait times today,” the agency posted on social media.
Previous Large-Scale Rescues in L.A. County
This isn’t the first time the Los Angeles County DACC has responded to large-scale animal rescue situations. In 2006, the agency rescued over 350 Chihuahuas from a single home. In 2017, they rescued more than 100 venomous snakes and reptiles in an animal hoarding case. That same year, authorities discovered over 7,000 birds during a cockfighting investigation. The agency has as well responded to large-scale rescues involving livestock during wildfires.
Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger, whose district includes Lake Hughes, called the situation “heartbreaking.” “Today’s operation shows what’s possible when agencies work together with urgency and resolve to protect vulnerable animals,” Barger said in a statement. She added that county officials would seek a court order to expedite the adoption process.
As of Friday evening, authorities had not made any arrests or filed any charges. The investigation is ongoing, and the DACC is working to determine the full extent of the alleged animal cruelty and neglect. The focus remains on providing care for the rescued animals and finding them permanent, loving homes.
The Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control is accepting donations to support the care of the rescued animals. Information on how to donate can be found on their website: https://animalcare.lacounty.gov/. Updates on the animals’ progress and adoption opportunities will be posted on the DACC’s social media channels.
The next step in the process will be a court hearing to determine the future of the property and the legal ramifications for those responsible for the animals’ care. The DACC anticipates providing further updates following that hearing.
If you have been affected by this story or are interested in supporting animal welfare, please share this article and consider donating to local animal rescue organizations.
