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Residents press county over alleged animal neglect at Artesian Road; Animal Services says animals observed in 'very, very good' condition
Summary
Multiple callers at the Sept. 25 Land Use Session urged the board to remove horses and dogs at an Artesian Road property, alleging deaths and ongoing neglect. County Animal Services said it visited the property 10 times in the past three months and observed the animals in "very, very good" condition and will follow up with directors.
SAN DIEGO — Dozens of callers during the Sept. 25, 2024 San Diego County Board of Supervisors Land Use Session urged the county to remove horses and dogs they said were suffering at a property on Artesian Road. County officials responded that Animal Services had inspected the location multiple times and found no evidence supporting removal.
Several callers described graphic conditions and deaths. "I'm asking that the horses be removed immediately before any more animal abuse or suffering occurs," Michael Fujimori said during a phone comment, saying at least two deaths had been documented at the property in the past year.
Annie Abraham said repeated complaints have gone unanswered and described the animals' conditions as "disgusting and disturbing," asking the board to intervene. Another caller, Camilla, urged that the animals be moved to a sanctuary and said residents were "tired" of inaction.
In response, a Public Safety Group and Department of Animal Services representative told the board Animal Services had visited the property 10 times in the past three months, observed the condition of the animals as "very, very good," and had met with concerned residents in August. The representative said they would contact Andrew Strong and Director Vaughn Morris to see whether any further action is required.
The board did not announce a formal enforcement action on the record during the hearing. Supervisors asked staff to follow up and indicated they appreciated residents raising the concern. No details were provided in the hearing about any pending warrants, veterinary findings, or specific enforcement steps; the county representative said they had no additional evidence at that time.
The matter illustrates a recurring tension between public complaints and animal-services determinations on when to initiate enforcement or removal. Residents seeking enforcement or updates may pursue public-records requests or request the board refer the matter to the chief administrative officer for follow-up.
