Chino Hills sanctuary warns after TikTok draws crowds to hiking trail

People reports ranchers in Chino Hills, Calif., say a viral TikTok video has drawn crowds to a nearby hiking trail, putting rescued animals at Red Bucket Rescue and Sanctuary at risk.

Per CBS News, the clip highlighted animals hikers can see along the Helen McCoy Loop and amassed nearly 100,000 likes. The sanctuary serves as a forever home to more than 100 horses, donkeys, ponies and other farm animals caretakers say were saved from abuse. Susan Peirce, the president of the sanctuary, told CBS News, "The environment that we create for them is one of peace and tranquility and safety."

Peirce told CBS News the surge in visitors has led people to try to feed or startle animals — including offering carrots and apples, "throwing salads over the fence" and scaring them — actions she said can be dangerous. Chino Hills city leaders have posted trail-etiquette reminders online and ranchers have put up educational signs, and caretakers are working with the city to find ways to better protect the sanctuary. The report said the outlet had reached out to the sanctuary for comment.

Key Topics

Culture, Chino Hills, Helen Mccoy Loop, Red Bucket Rescue, Susan Peirce, Tiktok