SWANZEY, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) — The Monadnock Humane Society is asking for community support after shutting down a local puppy mill that had been operating for at least a decade and rescuing dozens of dogs from unsafe conditions.

The case began in August when five small dogs arrived at the shelter crammed into a single crate. Staff said the dogs were covered in feces and fleas, several had broken tails, one suffered from a severe eye injury, and multiple dogs were pregnant.

Shelter staff immediately began providing medical treatment, baths, and care, but the situation soon led to a much larger investigation.

Working with local authorities, the humane society’s Humane Agent investigated a suspected long-term breeding operation in the community. When investigators entered the home, they found crates stacked with puppies of various ages and ammonia levels so high that monitoring equipment warned responders to leave the space for safety.

In total, 47 dogs were rescued from the home, including 19 adult dogs and 28 puppies.

According to the humane society, nearly all of the animals required medical care for parasites or infections, and one dog tested positive for heartworm. Staff, volunteers, and foster families stepped in to provide treatment, temporary homes for pregnant mothers, and behavioral support to help the dogs begin trusting people again.

The two individuals responsible for the operation later pleaded guilty and received bans on owning pets.

Shelter officials say the rescue and care for the animals cost the organization about $35,000.

The case is part of a larger fundraising effort by the humane society to ensure it has the resources needed to respond to future cruelty and neglect cases. The organization has set a goal of raising $160,000 and says it is currently about $65,000 away from reaching that target.

Anyone interested in helping support the shelter’s rescue efforts can donate through the organization’s website. Donations help cover medical care, sheltering, and emergency responses when animals in the region are found in crisis.