Inadequate Care Complaint Prompts Investigation At DeLand Animal Sanctuary

DeLand, FL - Volusia County officials are now investigating Journeys End—the same sanctuary that had over a dozen animals seized from it last year—following a complaint about inadequate care. An email from the county says the investigation was launched after numerous violations were observed at the sanctuary. The county added that a volunteer filed a complaint about a cat at the facility that was not receiving appropriate care. Just last year—following other complaints of inadequate care—Volusia County Animal Services (VCAS), under a court order, seized 16 animals in need urgent medical attention from the facility. The case against Journeys End was eventually resolved just a few months later following a settlement agreement that required the facility to reduce the number of animals it took in. That same agreement permitted the county to conduct periodic inspections to ensure that the animals were being properly cared for and the facility was living up to the terms of the settlement. Since the agreement was signed, VCAS has conducted 15 announced inspections at the property, with officers observing instances of non-compliance with both the settlement agreement and the county’s animal ordinance during each inspection. The violations include failure to routinely provide rabies vaccinations, county licenses, and adequate care. “Throughout this case, Volusia County Animal Services’ focus has been and will continue to be the care and welfare of the animals,” said Volusia County Animal Services Director Adam Leath. “We’re committed to ensuring each animal on the property has access to adequate and humane care.” The county is asking anyone with information on Journeys End to contact Volusia County Animal Services at 386-248-1790.