Cops called to check on careless tenants hoarding floor-to-ceiling — but what they found buried beneath layers of trash broke their hearts
A landlord had been trying to contact their tenants living in a Vista apartment for weeks before they informed the cops about the situation. Soon, the two-bedroom apartment was swarming with law enforcement officials and volunteers from the San Diego Humane Society. The rescuers uncovered a heartbreaking reality that resulted in a four-day operation and raised concerns about careless pet owners.
Unable to reach the tenants, the landlord of the San Diego apartment was forced to call for help. Officials had no choice but to break into the abandoned house and were met with a terrifying sight. The space was packed floor-to-ceiling with household items, while several dogs and cats survived under layers of debris and trash. A long rescue operation ensued during which shelter workers and cops saved the lives of 11 dogs and two cats. The poor animals had somehow managed to survive the hoarding conditions in the Vista apartment until help arrived. The rescue was officially concluded on Saturday, October 4, 2025, as reported by NBC San Diego.
"This is a heartbreaking case, but we are grateful these animals are finally safe," said SDHS Chief of Humane Law Enforcement Jace Huggins. They explained that, unfortunately, situations like this occur when pet owners are either “overwhelmed” or enduring personal challenges. “If you or someone you know is struggling to care for pets, please reach out for help before it gets out of control,” they added. Some Pomeranians and Chihuahuas were rescued in miserable conditions, overrun by fleas, skin diseases, and overgrown nails, the rescue authorities revealed.
The rescuers had a difficult time rummaging through the trash-filled apartment to locate the remaining pets. They found the dogs had created tunnels under the rubble to move around inside the space. A deep cleaning effort was urgently needed, and the rescues appointed additional staff for help. Large dumpsters were used to carry off the trash from the unit for proper disposal. At the moment, the rescue pets are under medical care at the SDHS’s Oceanside campus while the rescue team investigates the emergency. They want to ensure no other pet is left behind under the layers of trash.
However, the SDHS is facing a challenge of its own. Space is limited, and the rescue shelter was already at its full capacity when the mass intake of dogs and cats from the apartment occurred. At present, the Humane Society is caring for 792 dogs and has requested public support to help adopt and transfer rescue dogs to safe new homes. According to Four Paws International, there are several reasons why some people may abandon their pets. While lack of experience and declining age are common factors, sometimes changed life situations, such as divorce, losing a job, or moving to a house that does not allow pets, may force a person to give up or abandon their pets. Time is another crucial factor, as many pet owners struggle to make time to take care of their pets.