SAN DIEGO, CA — Thirty-seven horses rescued from a neglected sanctuary in Julian are now available for adoption, the San Diego Humane Society announced.
The horses are among 48 still in the organization's care following the rescue of 175 horses from the Villa Chardonnay property. The remaining horses are receiving rehabilitation and individualized care as they recover from years of limited or no veterinary care, officials said.
One of the rescued horses, Oscar, left Monday for a new home with the Unconditional Love Foundation in Murrieta, where he will serve as a therapy horse for veterans with PTSD. Oscar was joined by a pony named Loretta Lynn and another horse named Knight King Julian.
Two other horses previously rescued from Julian by the same foundation, Runner and Alfred, are expected to be reunited with the group.
The remaining horses are being cared for at Willow Glen Equestrian Centre in El Cajon after being moved from Julian in July to make them more accessible to staff, volunteers and potential adopters. Four horses needing advanced care are being housed at San Diego Humane Society's Escondido campus.
The 37 available horses are seeking experienced owners who can provide ongoing care and patience, officials said. The horses are being placed as companion animals only, and their ability to be ridden is unknown.
Prospective adopters must complete an application and be approved before meeting the horses. Appointments are required to visit the horses in El Cajon.
The San Diego Humane Society seized the animals May 1 after serving a search warrant at the Julian property. The organization was later granted legal ownership of all 728 animals found there due to what officials described as severe neglect. The investigation remains ongoing.
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