The rescuers were responding to a suspected dog fighting case.
The sheriff's officers were armed with search warrants on the day of the intervention.
Severe abuse
They discovered dogs chained with heavy chains in the woods, hidden behind outbuildings and tethered near makeshift shelters.
The dogs were all in very poor health. They were extremely thin and had severe bite marks. One female was trying to nurse her three puppies in a tiny hutch filled with excrement.
A dog fighting ring
At the scene, police and rescuers also found equipment typically associated with dog fighting. They discovered treadmills used for training, as well as the remains of a fighting arena.
In total, 47 severely abused dogs were rescued by police and animal welfare organisations. They have all been taken into veterinary care and transported to safety. We hope they recover their health as quickly as possible and send them much love.
