Over 50 Horses Found Dead in San Joaquin County: Volunteers Rally to Save Survivors
An animal abuse investigation in California has uncovered devastating conditions, with 53 horses, one cow, and one dog found dead. An additional 13 horses, one donkey, and one bull had to be euthanized due to their poor condition. Authorities have rescued 90 horses, five donkeys, and three alpacas, but the case remains under investigation.
Chantel Tieman of Hold Your Horses Livestock Evacuation and Rescue described the case as one of the worst she's ever encountered:
"Heartbroken. Absolutely heartbroken. These animals should have never suffered. There’s no excuse for it."
Timeline of Events
- August 2024: Initial reports of neglect led law enforcement to contact suspect Jan Johnson.
- January 4, 2025: Officers responded to a rooster fight at one of Johnson's properties, discovering 30 dead roosters and 65 alive. This led to search warrants for Johnson's primary residence and other properties.
- January 24, 2025: Rescue teams recovered dozens of animals in dire conditions.
Volunteers Step In
Volunteers from Hold Your Horses and Oakdale Equine Rescue worked tirelessly to save and transport the surviving animals. These groups, composed entirely of volunteers, are now focused on nursing the animals back to health.
Tieman emphasized the importance of community support:
"It’s so easy to give them a second chance. Join a team, sponsor, foster, or donate to help save these animals. We’re all nonprofits, and we need the public’s help."
The Role of Reporting
This case highlights the critical role the public plays in preventing animal neglect. Tieman urged people to take action when they see signs of abuse:
"If you don’t step up, these animals won’t get help. You have to be willing to make a report and testify. These animals deserve at least the bare minimum—food, shelter, and healthcare."
How to Help
- Donate: Support recovery efforts by donating to Oakdale Equine Rescue.
- Volunteer: Join rescue teams or foster animals in need.
- Report Abuse: If you suspect animal neglect or abuse, report it to authorities and be prepared to testify.
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