On Thursday, October 22^nd, Santa Barbara County Animal Services officials investigated a call from a concerned citizen regarding a potential case of dog hoarding. Upon arrival, the officials were met with over 100 Chihuahuas and Chihuahua mixed dogs inside the Lompoc home. The owner soon decided it was in the animals’ best interest to be surrendered over to officials to find new homes.

An 18-member team was assembled to transport the 104 dogs to the Santa Maria Animal Shelter in a safe and humane manner. The team included a veterinarian, two vet techs, four animal control officers, three supervisory staff, five support staff, and three volunteers. Members of the team worked until after midnight to ensure all of the dogs were safe, comfortable, and well cared for at their shelter.

Animal Services quickly coordinated with local shelters and rescue partners, including the Humane Society of Ventura County, to find placement for each of the 104 dogs. On Friday, October 23^rd, Humane Officer King and Media and Marketing Coordinator Amy King drove to the Santa Maria Animal Shelter to rescue 21 of the small dogs and transport them back to the shelter in Ojai.

“We were more than happy to help in any way that we could. Our staff has been great in making the 21 dogs now in our care feel safe, comfortable, and cared for,” said Shelter Director Jolene Hoffman. Each dog was taken in and given a bath upon arriving at the HSVC. With the help of our staff, the small pups are slowly adjusting to their new surroundings and getting more comfortable each day.

If you are interested in adopting one of our rescue pups, please visit our website to stay up to date on when they are available for adoption.