WAYNE COUNTY, Iowa (KCRG) – The Animal Rescue League of Iowa said it helped rescue 27 animals in Wayne County on Wednesday.

The ARL animal welfare and response team said it was a small shelter with 22 dogs crammed into a small space, their fur matted and covered in feces.

In addition, the team reported finding four parrots and a donkey on the property.

The ARL’s emergency team is treating the animals. The team said most of the dogs have severe matting and some dogs’ nails are so long that they cannot walk normally. All of the dogs also have serious dental problems.

One of the parrots was in such a terrible condition that, according to the team, it could not be saved.

“This is another tragic case of animal and human suffering that we see far too often,” said Tom Colvin, CEO of ARL. “Unfortunately, it is the innocent animals who end up in these difficult situations. We are relieved that the animals are now receiving the care they deserve and we hope that the people affected also get the support they need to break the cycle of those who harbor too many animals.”

The rescue comes at a time when the ARL is already struggling with a large animal population.

All rights reserved.