Several animals rescued from Villa Chardonnay in Julian have been reunited with previous owners as San Diego Humane Society continues sorting through one of the county’s largest recent animal rescue operations.

Patch reported that one dog, one cat and six horses have been returned so far. The reunions followed the May 1 search warrant at the Julian property, where officials said animals were found in severe neglect conditions.

San Diego Humane Society said more than 700 animals have been found on the property, including 446 cats, 175 horses, 30 dogs, chickens and other animals. Staff and volunteers are continuing daily care at the site, including veterinary and farrier support.

The organization said it will continue contacting more than 100 people who submitted forms saying they had previously surrendered or boarded animals at Villa Chardonnay. Owner verification remains ongoing during the active legal investigation.

The case matters beyond Julian because San Diego Humane Society shelters are already over capacity, and the rescue adds pressure to animal welfare resources across the county, including East County communities. Santee residents following county animal services will likely see the impacts continue as medical treatment, placement and reunification work move forward.

Source: Patch — https://patch.com/california/san-diego/reunions-begin-after-massive-julian-animal-rescue-operation