Published : Monday, 09 Apr 2012, 5:16 PM EDT

http://www.woodtv.com/dpp/news/local/allegan_county/352-shih-tzus-found-covered-in-filth

ALLEGAN, Mich. (WOOD) - The Allegan County Animal Shelter is treating 353 Shih Tzu and Pomeranian dogs that were seized today from an Allegan County breeder.

The dog count does not include puppies younger than four weeks. Twelve cats and two birds were also confiscated.

"We're completely overwhelmed right now," said Jeff Stiegman, program director for the animal shelter. "We need help."

Most of the dogs are covered in feces and filth, and many are sick.

The Allegan County Sheriff's Office said that the dogs came from a Cheshire Township breeder that had allowed the number of dogs grow so significantly that they were not being properly cared for.

The sheriff's office said those breeders are cooperating in relinquishing the dogs to the county so that they can be adopted.

Animal Control is still investigating. It is unclear if anyone will face charges.

The dogs are being checked into the shelter and medicated as fast as possible.

Even then, Stiegman said, it will take a small army of volunteers well into the night and possibly tomorrow to treat the dogs.

-- See photos of the dogs and the volunteers at work --

Because of the nature of the Shih Tzu hair, qualified groomers must work on the animals, Stiegman said.

Volunteers with Wishbone Animal Rescue are already helping to care for the animals, according to the Allegan County Sheriff's Office.

The shelter is still in need veterinarian technicians and skilled groomers.

Monetary assistance and donations of bleach, soft canned dog food, blankets and other items are also needed, shelter official Julie Cowal said.

Anyone wishing to adopt or foster a dog can go to the Allegan County Animal Shelter's Facebook page or its site at Petfinder.

Anyone who can help is urged to call the shelter at [masked]. This is a voicemail number, but is being checked regularly.