On the heels of a hoarding rescue last Friday, the ASPCA is on the ground again this week in Madison, Tennessee, assisting in the removal and sheltering of 41 dogs from tragic conditions.

Our responders moved in Tuesday at the request of Metro Animal Care and Control, who received numerous complaints about conditions at Happy Endings Animal Rescue, a self-described “no-kill” dog rescue eight miles north of Nashville. The Nashville Police Department executed a warrant for the removal of the dogs, and the owner was arrested on charges of animal cruelty.

The animals—including Chow, pit bull, Shepherd mixes and more—were found living in filth inside an overcrowded house and outdoor kennels. One room alone held 22 dogs, with inches of feces covering the floor. Many of the dogs are suffering from medical issues including emaciation, dental disease and severe hair loss. Some were not spayed or neutered and had no access to food or water.

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“What we found here is horrific,” said Kathryn Destreza, Investigations Director for the ASPCA Field Investigations and Response team. “This facility claimed to be a safe place for animals, but the truth is these dogs were suffering greatly, both physically and emotionally.”

The ASPCA has transported the dogs to a temporary shelter in an undisclosed location, where they are receiving much-needed medical care, emotional support and loving kindness. It is likely that many of these innocent animals have never experienced the quality of life they deserve, and your support is urgently needed as we care for these and so many other victims of animal cruelty.

This is a critical situation, and it is your help that makes all of the ASPCA’s work possible. Please make a life-saving donation to the ASPCA today.