A couple that runs an animal rescue in New Smyrna Beach is in a heart-wrenching predicament.
The property on which they run Forever Farm Sanctuary is in foreclosure.
Many of the 400 or so animals that live there face euthanasia if Tina Richardson and her husband can't find a home for them within a few days.
"We have to be out by Tuesday," said Richardson, according to WFTV.
More than 400 animals call Forever Farm home, including wild hogs, miniature horses, donkeys, turkey, roosters, pigeons, opossums and raccoons. Over the years, it wouldn't be unusual if a homeless animal “wanders in here and finds a home,” Richardson said.
Richardson said she doesn’t have a place to take all of her animals, and she worries they would be euthanized if she can't find homes for them.
"It would basically destroy me. You might as well just euthanize me, because these animals have always been my life," said Richardson.
Volusia County Animal Control said most of the animals on Forever Farm appear to be healthy, according to WFTV. The only exception is two miniature horses whose ribs are showing.
Agency officials said it is unlikely that there are enough local animal organizations that will be able to save every animal at the sanctuary, especially on such short notice.
The animals must leave the property by Tuesday, said an animal control spokesperson. If not, Richardson could face neglect and abandonment charges.
Richardson hopes she can find a temporary home for her animals until she is able to find a new property.
"It's like a dark cloud settling over you, and you cease to be able to function. The animals are relying on me. So I have to be able to keep going forward and staying positive," said Richardson.
If you’re interested in finding out how you can help, contact Tina Richardson at (386) 576-6407 or by email: thkgod1016@gmail.com
This article appears in Sep 1-8, 2016.