EMINENCE, Ky (WDRB) -- Hundreds of animals rescued from filthy living conditions are finding new homes. It's a perfect example how a community's generosity is literally bursting at the seams. In less than 24 hours, the donations coming into the Henry/Trimble County Animal Control Shelter are literally piling-up on the front porch.
It's almost an obstacle course to get to the front door. But once you step inside the shelter, dozens of innocent faces stare right at you.
"When I walked in the door she was just there and I grabbed her, so I had no idea I was going to get her that soon," says Jodie Judy while cradling her new foster dog, whom she's named "Angel."
Some of the dogs are shy and quiet, while others can't help but grab your attention. Animal control officers say each one just wants one thing. "Attention, love, TLC. A lot of them didn't have human contact a lot," says Chad Zimmerman, Henry/Trimble County Animal Control Officer.
Judy is starting to realize some of those challenges. "Trying to get her to settle down," she says as Angel wiggles in her arms. "Give her the love that she needs. Hopefully get her to good health and get her belly fed and get her back going."
Officers say it's unclear how long these 200 dogs, cats, and other animals lived in what's described as deplorable conditions.
Local agencies rescued more than 100 dogs and 40 cats, as well as rabbits, hermit crabs and horses from a mobile home on Kentucky Highway 55.
But when the Henry/Trimble County shelter rescued the animals on Monday, the community unleashed overwhelming support. "Dog food, horse food, cat liter, bedding, cages, and kennels. You name it. People have come out and given it to us."
The only thing that matches the number of donations is the number of calls from people wanting to adopt. "I actually just came down to volunteer and help out but then I fell in love with this little black chihuahua and she went home with me and her name is Maggie Mae," says Pam Martin, another foster mom.
The shelter can only allow people to foster the animals until the case is settled. If the shelter takes possession of them, many of these foster parents plan to permanently keep the new addition to the family. "I have 3 young sons and this is my baby," says Judy.
[SLIDESHOW: ANIMAL RESCUE IN HENRY COUNTY (Previous Photos)]
An anonymous tip led investigators to the mobile home -- where one dog was found dead. A cat had to be put down. Officials say it was a combination of a puppy mill and animal hoarding that got out of control.
A veterinarian is checking on all the sick and injured animals, as volunteers donate their time and money to help.
One person is charged with 10 counts of animal cruelty, and investigators are still trying to find two other people who live on the property.
Other local shelters in Oldham and Shelby Counties are also helping. If you would like to find out how you can help, call Henry County Animal Control from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The number is: 502-845-8050.
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