More than 100 neglected dogs, horses, birds, pet cockroaches rescued from California home

Authorities became aware of the home in Aguanga while investigating the Nixon Fire in Riverside County. Animal Services later found pets living in terrible conditions and have saved them.

More than 100 neglected creatures, ranging from dogs and horses to birds and “pet cockroaches,” have been rescued from a home in Southern California.

The property was discovered in the aftermath of the Nixon Fire, which burned more than 5,000 acres of land in Riverside County beginning on July 29. While evacuating people from the fire, a Riverside County sheriff’s deputy noticed the house, located in the town on Aguanga, and tipped off officials with the county Department of Animal Services.

Arriving at the property on Wednesday, Animal Services officials found dozens of animals being kept in terrible conditions, including three horses, six goats, and numerous dogs, according to a news release from the Riverside County Department of Animal Services.

Among other pets: Parakeets, mice, chickens

Other animals rescued from the property included chickens, mice, parakeets, cockatiels, quail, geese, one turkey, and what were described as “pet cockroaches.”

“This was one of the more unique investigations we’ve had, considering the wide arrange of critters now needing our assistance,” Animal Services Director Erin Gettis said in a statement.  

Several dogs believed to have come from the property were also rescued prior to the seizure this week.

Many of the animals rescued were taken to the San Jacinto Valley Animal Campus for care and recovery. A miniature horse and a sheep, believed to be a bonded pair, were taken to the county animal shelter, according to Animal Services.

Owner was not present

The homeowner was not present when the animals were seized and failed to respond to two noticed posted at the property in late July, according to Animal Services.

The county Animal Services department said it will seek felony animal cruelty charges when it submits evidence to the Riverside County District Attorney’s office.

Max Hauptman is a Trending Reporter for USA TODAY. He can be reached at MHauptman@gannett.com