LIBERTY, Kentucky — WARNING: This story contains graphic content and photos that some may find disturbing.
More than 40 dogs were rescued from a frozen and partially burnt house in central Kentucky last week.
Animal Rescue Corps (ARC) responded to a request from law enforcement in Casey County, according to a news release.
The national animal protection nonprofit was asked to help with the rescue of 44 large dogs after they were found living in "deplorable conditions."
On Jan. 14, ARC officials said the rescue mission, called "Operation Frozen Sorrows," happened two hours southeast of Louisville at a house doubling as a home.
"The animals and their poor conditions were discovered after the tenant was unexpectedly hospitalized," a spokesperson for ARC said. "Casey County has a small animal shelter but in no way could take in forty-four badly neglected animals. ARC was founded to humanely assist animals and communities in situations like this."
When rescuers arrived, they said they found 44 dogs inside and outside the home with some confined to crates and others running loose.
Freezing temperatures and high ammonia levels "inhibited rescuers' efforts" and additional safety equipment was needed to keep rescuers safe.
Unfortunately, officials said three dead dogs were found on the property two of whom were frozen solid.
A few breeds that were rescued include Belgian Malinois, Great Danes, St. Bernards, German Shepherds, and pit bulls.
"Many of the dogs exhibit signs of obvious and chronic neglect including eye injuries, fur loss, internal and external parasites, anemia, gastrointestinal issues, bite wounds, and matting. Some of the dogs are emaciated and the majority of the dogs are underweight," a spokesperson for ARC said. "The tenant was operating a purported 'rescue' out of the home, called 'Everything's Going to be Alright Rescue & Rehabilitation,' an ironic name given how little was 'alright' for the animals."
“The alleged rescue operated by the tenant stands as a stark reminder that good intentions must be backed by responsible actions," Tim Woodward, ARC executive director, said. "The suffering of these dogs underscores the ethical responsibility that comes with operating an animal rescue; neglect has no place in the realm of animal rescue and sheltering. This is a very sad situation and a tremendous amount of suffering has ended."
ARC transported all of the dogs to their rescue center in Gallatin, Tenn.
Officials said very dog that was rescued is receiving a thorough veterinary exam, appropriate vaccinations, and any necessary medical treatments before they will be transported to trusted shelter and rescue partner organizations that will ultimately adopt them into loving homes.
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