DEARBORN HEIGHTS (WWJ) Dearborn Heights Police (DPHD) rescued more than two dozen small dogs from a local home.
Police said their Ordinance and Animal Control Department executed a search warrant at a home on Fleming, in the area of Southfield and Outer Drive, on Wednesday, July 2.
The warrant was issued in a police matter involving the killing of a dog, authorities said.
According to authorities, their investigation led to the discovery of over 20 Chihuahua-like dogs inside the home which resulted in "horrific conditions regarding sanitation, smell and animal waste."
The 20th District Court issued a Search and Seizure warrant, allowing all of the dogs to be removed from the home. Staff of animal control departments in the neighboring communities of Redford, Garden City and Highland Park assisted with the removal.
Animal control officers arrived at the scene with the DPHD officer who was present during the initial animal cruelty investigation. The resident granted animal control officers access to the home.
Police said the officers donned protective gear and removed 27 dogs-- including a litter of four puppies with their mother.
The owner formally surrendered the dogs, according to police.
The dogs were transported to a Michigan Humane Society shelter to receive care, vaccinations and other required veterinary attention.
According to police; the resident was allowed to remove personal belongings before authorities secured the home and posted it as condemned.