Humane Society of Missouri: 315 animals rescued

ST. LOUIS (AP) -- The Humane Society of Missouri calls it the largest rescue in the organization's history.

The Humane Society says Tuesday it is removing 315 animals from an 80-acre property near Pleasant Hope in southwest Missouri, saying the animals lived in filthy conditions without adequate food, water and shelter. Several dead animals were found.

The animals include more than 70 dogs and more than three dozen cats, along with animals ranging from rabbits, ducks and chickens to donkeys, horses and exotic birds.

A custody hearing is Sept. 2nd.

The name of the property owner was not released, and it isn't known if criminal charges are planned.

Horses and farm animals will be treated at a rescue ranch in Union. Most of the others will be treated at the Humane Society's headquarters in St. Louis.