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95 Dogs Removed From Brunswick Home

FREDERICK, Md. (AP) --Heartbreaking discovery. Dozens of malnourished and sick dogs are found inside a Frederick County home. 

Weijia Jiang has more on the conditions inside the Brunswick home.

Neighbors say they never saw a single dog, but they could often smell them. Police say that's because the animals likely never saw daylight, starting from the moment they were born.

Seven birds and 95 dogs-- all infested with fleas, missing chunks of hair and clearly stressed-- were removed from a Brunswick home Thursday morning. Police say it was filled with urine and feces.

"Consuming food, drinking water, the feces and urine that would be in the house over a period of time was substantial, and the ammonia smell was extremely strong and the interior was deplorable," said Harold Domer, Frederick County Animal Control.

An anonymous tip brought Animal Control officers to the East A Street house, where they say a couple lives and was hoarding the animals.

Upon arrival they found one dog dead, and they had to euthanize another because it was in such bad shape.

Veterinarians say most of the dogs are over 5-years-old but have likely never been outside.

"It's crazy to even think about," said Kristin Frye, neighbor. "I don't know how someone can live like that. I don't know. It's dangerous. We have children. It's other animals in the area. " 

Vets are monitoring the dogs to see if they can be adopted or rescued, but they say that may be difficult  because the animals have never been socialized.

There's a chance the animals will have to be put down. Police are also investigating whether the house itself is a health risk.

Officer Deborah Norris says many of the animals appear to be suffering from weight loss and skin conditions.

As of Friday, no charges have been filed against the homeowners, but police say that's likely to change pending the investigation.

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