A national animal protection nonprofit rescued 44 dogs from a frozen and partially burnt house in Casey County, Kentucky, last week. The dogs were living in deplorable conditions and showed signs of chronic neglect, according to Animal Rescue Corps (ARC).

ARC said it responded to a request from law enforcement in Casey County on Jan. 14, after the tenant of the house, who was operating a purported rescue called “Everything’s Going to be Alright Rescue & Rehabilitation,” was hospitalized. The tenant had used his electronic entry cards and keys to access the evidence room and take items, including drugs.

The nonprofit said it found the dogs, including Belgian Malinois, Great Danes, St. Bernards, German Shepherds, and pit bulls, inside and outside the house, some confined to crates and others running loose. The house was also partially burnt and had high ammonia levels, making the rescue operation more difficult and dangerous.

ARC said it also found three dead dogs on the property, two of whom were frozen solid.

The nonprofit transported the dogs to its rescue center in Gallatin, Tennessee, where they received veterinary care and treatment. ARC said it will work with trusted shelter and rescue partners to find loving homes for the dogs.

Tim Woodward, ARC executive director, said the incident was a sad situation and a reminder of the ethical responsibility that comes with operating an animal rescue.

“The suffering of these dogs underscores the ethical responsibility that comes with operating an animal rescue; neglect has no place in the realm of animal rescue and sheltering,” Woodward said. “This is a very sad situation and a tremendous amount of suffering has ended.”