41 Pets Rescued from Escondido Home by San Diego Humane Society
On May 28, 2025, the San Diego Humane Society (SDHS) took in 41 animals from a private residence in Escondido after their Humane Law Enforcement team responded to a report of overcrowding. Among the rescued were 28 dogs, six puppies, four cats, two kittens, and one chameleon.
According to SDHS spokesperson Nina Thompson, all of the animals are now in the care of the organization’s veterinary and animal care teams, where they are receiving much-needed medical exams, behavioral assessments, and a safe space to decompress.
“This is a really tough time because summer is usually busy. We are now close to 2,000 animals in care, and so having a mass intake with more than 40 animals in one single day is certainly tough,” said Thompson.
The rescued animals have been distributed across SDHS campuses throughout the county. While most are still being evaluated, the next steps will include spaying or neutering and, when ready, placement for adoption into loving homes.
Because this is an active investigation, SDHS has not released further details about the condition of the animals or the circumstances within the Escondido home. However, the organization is using this moment to raise awareness about pet overpopulation and the importance of asking for help before situations spiral out of control.
“Forty-one pets in a single-family residence is too many,” Thompson emphasized. “If you're overwhelmed, please reach out. We can offer resources, spay/neuter services, and help rehome animals if needed.”
The San Diego Humane Society currently has nearly 2,000 animals in their care, including more than 750 available for adoption. Their facilities and teams are stretched thin—especially during the summer months, which are traditionally high intake seasons.
If you'd like to support SDHS in their efforts, you can:
Donate: sdhumane.org/donate
Adopt or Foster: Give one of these animals a second chance at life
Volunteer: Offer your time to support daily care or enrichment
Spread the Word: Share their mission and adoptable animals on social media
At The Woof, we champion animal welfare organizations like SDHS who work tirelessly behind the scenes to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome animals in need. This story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of responsible pet ownership, community resources, and the life-saving role of shelters and humane law enforcement teams.
If you or someone you know is struggling with too many animals, don’t wait until it’s too late. Humane societies are here to help—not judge.
All photos courtesy of the San Diego Humane Society.
