300 neglected animals removed from El Dorado County property: Local shelters close to take them in

EL DORADO COUNTY, Calif. - Officials found 300 neglected animals, including more than 100 dogs and numerous cats, birds, horses, pigeons, ducks, roosters, hens, and goats on a property in Shingle Springs on May 2, 2019.

With the extra demands on the animal shelters in transferring and caring for these animals, the shelters in South Lake Tahoe and Diamond Springs are closed through Tuesday, May 7. Over the past five days, El Dorado County Animal Services has been safely removing the animals from the Shingle Springs property.

The animal officials responded to assist the El Dorado County Sheriff's Office with an unlawful detainer/property eviction on Thursday in the 4700 block of Lonesome Dove Drive in Shingle Springs after finding evidence of animal neglect and the operation of a non-licensed animal kennel on the property.

The case is now part of an active and ongoing criminal investigation. There have been no arrests at this time.

Shelter staff, veterinarians and volunteers have been focused on the animals and ensuring their wellbeing.

“This is one of the largest animal removal operations that I’m aware of in El Dorado County,” said Henry Brzezinski, Chief of El Dorado County Animal Services.

In addition to the animals found living on the Shingle Springs property, another 22 dead animals were found in freezers at the location.

“We appreciate the understanding and patience of our community members during our temporary shelter closures and limited service while we care for these animals in need,” said Brzezinski. “We also want to thank the El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office, our local animal welfare partners and shelter volunteers who have assisted with this operation.”

Animal Services shelter staff will be limiting calls to emergencies over the next several days.