A legal dispute in Napa Valley has put the future of animals at The Oasis by Hoopes, a nonprofit rescue at Hoopes Vineyard Winery, in question. A court order against the winery, which restricts public-facing operations like tastings and tours, also limits the keeping of animals to those involved in traditional “animal husbandry,” like raising livestock for products.
This has sparked confusion and concern over the fate of the rescue’s sheep, horses, pigs, and chickens. While the county says the order doesn’t mandate the animals’ removal, only that they can’t be used to attract visitors or market the winery, Hoopes Vineyard argues the ruling makes it impossible to keep the animals on site without violating restrictions.
A judge has granted a temporary stay until March 7th to allow time to address the animals. With differing interpretations of the court order, the winery and the county are locked in a public dispute, leaving the animals’ future uncertain. The community is now watching closely, wondering if these rescued animals will need to find new homes.
