La Mesa, California, January 1, 2026
In a significant rescue operation, the San Diego Humane Society responded to a welfare check in La Mesa, California, where they rescued 40 dogs and puppies from a tenant’s apartment living in deplorable conditions. The animals were found without food, water, and surrounded by feces. The humane society is currently facing shelter overcrowding and urges the community to adopt or foster animals to assist in alleviating the situation.
San Diego Humane Society Rescues 40 Dogs and Puppies from La Mesa Apartment
La Mesa, California – On December 30, 2025, the San Diego Humane Society (SDHS) rescued 40 dogs and puppies from a La Mesa apartment under unsanitary conditions. The animals were found living in feces and without adequate food or water.
Rescue Details
SDHS officers responded to a welfare check conducted by the La Mesa Police Department on a tenant facing eviction. The tenant had not been seen since December 23. Upon arrival, officers discovered the dogs and puppies in a 500-square-foot apartment, living in severely unsanitary conditions. The animals were immediately provided with food and water before being transported to the SDHS San Diego campus for medical care and evaluation.
Current Shelter Overcrowding
This rescue comes at a critical time for SDHS, as their shelters are operating significantly over capacity. The San Diego campus alone is caring for 725 dogs, well beyond its capacity. The organization is urging the community to consider adopting or fostering animals to help alleviate the overcrowding.
Background on SDHS
The San Diego Humane Society is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the welfare and adoption of animals. They operate multiple campuses across San Diego County, providing shelter, medical care, and adoption services for animals in need. The organization also offers educational programs and advocates for animal welfare legislation.
How to Help
Community members interested in assisting can visit SDHS campuses in San Diego, El Cajon, Escondido, and Oceanside to adopt or foster animals. The organization also accepts donations to support their programs and services. For more information, visit the SDHS website or contact their local campuses directly.
Contact Information
For media inquiries, please contact:
Nina Thompson
Director of Public Relations
San Diego Humane Society
Phone: 619-372-0916
Email: [email protected]
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many dogs and puppies were rescued from the La Mesa apartment?
40 dogs and puppies were rescued from the La Mesa apartment.
What were the conditions like in the apartment?
The animals were found living in feces and without adequate food or water.
What is the current capacity situation at SDHS shelters?
SDHS shelters are operating significantly over capacity, with the San Diego campus caring for 725 dogs, well beyond its capacity.
How can the community help alleviate the overcrowding at SDHS?
Community members can adopt or foster animals from SDHS campuses in San Diego, El Cajon, Escondido, and Oceanside. Donations to support SDHS programs and services are also welcome.
How can I contact SDHS for more information?
For media inquiries, contact Nina Thompson, Director of Public Relations, at 619-372-0916 or [email protected]. For general information, visit the SDHS website or contact your local campus directly.
Key Features of the Rescue
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Rescue Date | December 30, 2025 |
| Location | La Mesa, California |
| Number of Animals Rescued | 40 dogs and puppies |
| Conditions Found | Unsanitary, with feces and lack of food and water |
| SDHS Shelter Capacity | Operating significantly over capacity, with 725 dogs at the San Diego campus |
| Community Assistance Needed | Adoption, fostering, and donations |
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