Hundreds of Dogs, Cats Rescued in L.A. County

One of the largest animal rescue operations in U.S. history

Mar. 21, 2026 at 3:05pm

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Los Angeles County officials carried out a massive animal rescue operation on Friday, removing an estimated 300 dogs and cats from a property in the Antelope Valley area. The Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control, along with several partner agencies, responded to the scene and transported the animals to county animal care centers for evaluation and treatment.

Why it matters

This large-scale rescue highlights the ongoing issue of animal welfare violations and the need for stronger enforcement and oversight to protect vulnerable animals. The strain on shelter resources also underscores the importance of public support through adoptions and donations to ensure the rescued animals receive the care they need.

The details

Authorities executed a warrant search on the property in Lake Hughes, acting on suspected animal welfare violations. More than 70 animal care and control staff members were involved in the rescue operation, with veterinary teams triaging animals on-site. Those in critical condition were immediately transported to vet hospitals, while others were taken to county animal care centers.

  • The rescue operation began around 7 a.m. on Friday, March 20, 2026.

The players

Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control

The government agency responsible for animal welfare and control in Los Angeles County, leading the rescue operation.

L.A. County District Attorney's Office

Assisting in the investigation of the suspected animal welfare violations.

Marcia Mayeda

The director of the Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control, who urged the public to support the rescue and rehabilitation of the animals.

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What they’re saying

“This is the largest number of dogs and cats that DACC has ever seized and may be the largest case ever in the United States.”

— LACO Animals

“We are urgently requesting the public's help to support the rescue and rehabilitation of these dogs and cats. Please consider adopting an animal in need or making a donation to support their care.”

— Marcia Mayeda, Director, Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control

What’s next

Officials are continuing their investigation into the suspected animal welfare violations, and are working with adoption partners and rescue groups to transfer adoptable animals and make room for those being brought in.

The takeaway

This large-scale animal rescue operation highlights the ongoing need for stronger enforcement and oversight to protect vulnerable animals, as well as the importance of public support through adoptions and donations to ensure rescued animals receive the care they need.