Residents and animal advocates press supervisors to act after reported horse, dog deaths at Artesian Road property

At the Board of Supervisors' May 7 land use meeting, multiple callers and in-person speakers urged the board to take action after repeated reports of animal neglect on a rural property on Artesian Road. Speakers said animals at the site have suffered for months, with recent reports that another horse died in March.

Benny Abraham told the board he has returned “again and again” seeking removal of animals and stronger enforcement from county animal control. He described recurring neglect at the site and criticized the county’s response as inadequate. Michael Fujimori said animals at county shelters and at the Artesian Road property are “languishing” and called for the removal of property owners and a return of the former director, named in public comment, who he said would better protect animals.

Kate Ione, a constituent of the supervisor whose district includes the property, said she had seen images and videos and pleaded for action, asking the board to “take this serious for a change.” Terry Hanowick described animals she said were deprived of exercise, socialization and care, and asked why the county had not prosecuted responsible parties.

Commenters repeatedly asked supervisors — and specifically Trustee representatives of the district that contains the property — to prioritize investigation, criminal referrals when warranted, and removal of animals to sanctuary where needed. Several speakers warned that community members will remember elected officials’ response when voting.

The board did not take a formal action on the artesian road complaints during the May 7 meeting; the record shows the item was raised during non-agenda public communication. Supervisors acknowledged receiving public comment on animal welfare and proceeded with the posted agenda.