Diverse Range of Animals at SDHS

In one of the largest animal rescue operations in recent San Diego County history, the San Diego Humane Society (SDHS) and a coalition of regional animal welfare organizations have impounded over 400 animals from a sanctuary in Julian, California. The operation, which began Friday, May 2, 2026, involved the removal of cats, dogs, horses, and numerous species of livestock and poultry from the property known as Villa Chardonnay Horses with Wings.

The rescue effort, described by SDHS as a “massive intake and rescue,” is part of an ongoing criminal investigation triggered by reports of alleged neglect and mismanagement at the sanctuary. According to Nina Thompson, a spokesperson for the San Diego Humane Society, the operation is the largest in the organization’s eight-year history and involves the collaboration of Pasadena Humane Society, Marin Humane Society, and Los Angeles County Animal Care & Control.

Among the animals removed from the property are approximately 150 cats, 30 dogs, at least 165 horses and ponies, as well as donkeys, alpacas, geese, chickens, roosters, turkeys, goats, peacocks, ravens, and a crow. The operation required multiple transports and the involvement of roughly 90 staff members from SDHS and partner organizations, who worked throughout the day and into the evening to ensure the safe evacuation of all animals.

Villa Chardonnay, which has been operating since 2003, describes itself as a sanctuary for animals that have been abandoned, neglected, or abused. However, the rescue operation follows a series of legal actions and investigations, including a lawsuit filed by Ark Watch, an animal welfare group, which resulted in a $2 million judgment against Monika Kerber, an owner of the sanctuary since 2020. Court records indicate that Ark Watch had previously contracted with Kerber to care for eight donkeys and two horses, but concerns about their welfare led to legal action.

In a statement to NBC 7 San Diego, SDHS emphasized that the operation is part of a criminal investigation and that details are limited at this time. The organization also noted that the sanctuary’s capacity has been overwhelmed, with the San Diego Humane Society and other shelters already operating at maximum capacity. The rescue operation is expected to take several days to complete.

Monika Kerber, the founder of Villa Chardonnay, has denied allegations of neglect, stating in a phone interview with the San Diego Union-Tribune that the animals were being cared for and that the operation was a personal attack. She described the animals as her life’s work and expressed distress over their removal. However, the San Diego Humane Society has stated that some animals are in urgent need of medical assistance, while others are in relatively stable condition.

As the rescue operation continues, the San Diego Humane Society is urging the community to support their efforts through adoption, fostering, volunteering, or donations. The organization is also encouraging anyone who believes their animal may have been housed at Villa Chardonnay to contact them for further assistance.

The rescue operation at Villa Chardonnay underscores the challenges faced by animal sanctuaries and the importance of oversight and accountability in ensuring the welfare of animals in care. As the investigation unfolds, the San Diego Humane Society and its partners will continue to provide updates on the status of the rescued animals and the ongoing efforts to address the issues at the sanctuary.

This story is based on reporting from NBC 7 San Diego, the San Diego Union-Tribune, and CBS 8 San Diego.