JACKSBORO, TN (WLAF) – The dogs found last week surviving in a filthy hovel are on the mend, according to officials at the Campbell County Animal Shelter.

On Thursday, authorities went to a Pioneer home after receiving a call of a woman living illegally in a home with 29 dogs.

When they arrived, the yet to be identified female, surrendered the animals that were thin, malnourished and dehydrated.

Now with help from the community and dog rescues, the canines’ health is slightly improving.

Twenty-nine dogs were rescued last Thursday.

“They are doing good,” said Brenda Watkins, the manager at the shelter. On Sunday evening, Big Fluffy Dog Rescue came and took about a dozen of the dogs while a few others have been placed in foster homes. Suzie, one of the very pregnant dogs, was among the first to go to a foster home, Watkins said. “Suzie is pretty far along. We expect her to deliver in a few days,” she said.

Local shelter staff continues to work with the dogs remaining at the facility and this is bringing some challenges. Five of the dogs have been classified as “fear biters,” according to Watkins. Fear biters are dogs that bite out of panic, not aggression. “They will take some working with,” she said.

As the dogs heal, which is going to be a lengthy process, the shelter still needs help from the community.

While there was a “good turnout” on dry puppy food, cans of dog and puppy food are still needed. Canned products have a higher fat concentration helping the dogs gain weight quicker. Donations of linens are still needed as well. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 09/11/2019-6AM)