Lake Hughes, CA – Los Angeles County authorities are undertaking what may be the largest animal rescue operation in U.S. History, removing approximately 700 dogs and cats from a property in the Lake Hughes area. The large-scale effort began Friday morning with the execution of a search warrant at a residence in the 46000 block of 226th Street West.
Personnel from the Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control (DACC) served the warrant, supported by investigators from the Office of the District Attorney, according to a department statement. The animals were reportedly in the care of Christine De Anda of Rock N Pawz animal rescue, and the warrant was served due to violations of animal welfare laws.
More than 70 staff members from DACC, along with representatives from the spcaLA, Pasadena Humane, and Kern County Animal Services, participated in the rescue. Additional support came from the Los Angeles County departments of Public Works, Public Health, and Regional Planning, investigating potential related violations.
Pasadena Humane staff were actively involved in the operation, removing 250 dogs and 66 cats from the property. The organization stated it was “grateful” for the opportunity to assist, adding that the effort mirrored support received during the Eaton Fire. “We were glad to support our neighboring animal welfare organization—just as they did for us during the Eaton Fire,” Pasadena Humane said in a social media post.
The rescued animals, estimated at 400 dogs and 300 cats, are being triaged on-site. Those requiring immediate medical attention are being transported to veterinary hospitals, while the remaining animals are being taken to county shelters. All seven of the county’s animal care centers are supporting the seizure, providing medical evaluations, treatment, and daily care.
Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger described the situation as “heartbreaking,” acknowledging the challenging conditions faced by personnel working in extreme heat. Barger stated that animals in urgent require were receiving immediate care, with others being relocated to county facilities and partner organizations.
DACC Director Marcia Mayeda has issued an urgent plea for adoptions and donations to the L.A. County Animal Care Foundation, citing the unprecedented strain on resources. To facilitate the intake of rescued animals, all DACC centers will hold special Sunday hours on March 22, from 11 a.m. To 5 p.m.
County officials have indicated that a court order will be necessary before any of the seized animals can be made available for adoption. The investigation remains active, and details are currently limited as authorities continue their operate.
Leave a Reply