Remaining Horses Rescued from Julian Moved to El Cajon
San Diego Humane Society (SDHS) has moved 54 horses rescued from Villa Chardonnay in Julian to Willow Glen Equestrian Centre in El Cajon. An additional fourhorses were moved to the organization’s Escondido Campus for ongoing behavioral and medical care. This marks another major milestone in the organization’s ongoing response to one of the largest animal rescues in its history.
The move took place over three days, from Monday through Wednesday, July 13 to15, 2026, and was coordinated to ensure the safety and well-being of every horse. The relocation brings the horses to a more secure place for both the animals, staff and volunteers caring for them. The site is also more accessible for staff, volunteers and prospective adopters. Local nonprofit H.E.R.O. Grounds was instrumental in securing the new space for the dozens of horses still in San Diego Humane Society’s care.
“Moving these horses is an important step forward in their recovery,” said Dr. Gary Weitzman, president and CEO of San Diego Humane Society. “This new location allows us to continue providing the individualized care they need in a safer, more efficient setting while also making it easier for our teams to support them, and potential adopters to give them the new lives they deserve. We’re grateful to H.E.R.O. Grounds for helping us secure this space as well as Willow Glen’s desire to support these animals in need.”
The horses were among 728 neglected animals rescued from the Villa Chardonnay property on May 1, 2026. Since then, SDHS has provided extensive medical care, nutritional support and rehabilitation while finding homes or rescue partners for hundreds of cats, dogs and farm animals.
SDHS has already received significant interest from members of the public hoping to adopt the rescued horses. The horses are not available for public viewing. Those interested in adopting should email horses@sdhumane.org to learn more about the adoption process.
For background information about the rescue and ongoing investigation, visit sdhumane.org/JulianRescue.
Category: Animals, Donations, Local News, Nonprofit, Pets, Volunteers
