Yuba officials seek food donations for horse, pigs in Olivehurst animal cruelty case

Animal care providers in Yuba County have received $6,500 in donations but are still seeking donations of food for a horse and potbelly pigs that were among dozens of animals removed from an Olivehurst home two weeks ago.

Investigators on Jan. 13 served a search warrant at the home in the 1600 block of Second Avenue after receiving reports of animal cruelty. They found 61 animals of various species — including livestock, poultry and domestic breeds — in and around the home in “deplorable conditions,” according to the Yuba County Sheriff’s Department.

Along with a dead horse, authorities found at the Olivehurst home 21 pigs, 12 dogs, 11 ducks, five chickens, two goats, two lambs, two cats, two rabbits, two cows, one horse and one bull.

The home was determined to be unfit for occupation by Yuba County Code Enforcement, and investigators are seeking a felony animal cruelty warrant from the Yuba County District Attorney.

The animals removed from the home were taken to two county-run facilities and examined by a veterinarian. They will remain in county custody until after criminal proceedings conclude, at which point they may be available for adoption.

Animal Care Services and sheriff’s volunteers were tasked with the housing and upkeep of these animals, and the Sheriff’s Department asked the public to donate money, food or other animal care supplies.

Along with the $6,500 in donations, the public has donated more than 1,000 pounds of dog food and numerous other supplies, the Sheriff’s Department announced Thursday in a Facebook post. Sheriff’s officials said they still needed senior horse food and potbelly pig food, along with grass hay, straw and shavings for bedding.

Donations can be dropped at Animal Care services at 5245 Feather River Boulevard in Olivehurst or by calling 530-741-6478.