Temecula animal sanctuary in need of funds for new home

TEMECULA, Calif. (KABC) -- Time is running out for hundreds of sick, injured and disabled animals at Villa Chardonnay Equine and Animal Sanctuary. The non-profit organization needs to relocate after their attempt to buy the 10-acre property fell through.

"The owners had a change of heart, unfortunately," said co-founder Louise Gardner.

Now, they have to be out by April. Despite the devastating news, co-founders Louise Gardner and Monika Keber saw an opportunity.

"We look at it as a blessing in disguise. We want to be able to get a bigger place," Gardner said.

Three years ago, Eyewitness News visited the horse rescue. At the time, there were 40 abandoned horses. Today, Villa Chardonnay is home to 140 horses, eight donkeys, three goats, over 50 cats, 14 dogs and three turkeys.

The riding arena was even converted into a home to house more horses, but now they've run out of space. This as the waiting list for animals seeking a home at Villa Chardonnay continues to grow.

"It's just grown exponentially as the number of animals that need homes and need long-term care just continues to grow in Riverside County," Gardner said.

Gardner says they've located the perfect property for their growing sanctuary, a 352-acre equine safe haven just 15 minutes away.

"Really the key is funding right now," Gardner said.

They need to raise $1.2 million for a down payment on the property and for moving costs.

"We need the community and as the largest equine and animal sanctuary in all of Southern California, we're hoping to get everybody involved," Gardner said.

To donate, visit www.villachardonnay.org.