1,000 dogs rescued in West Virginia

PARKERSBURG, W.Va., Aug. 25 (UPI) -- Homes are needed for 1,000 of man's best friends, dogs rescued from a Internet-marketed puppy mill in West Virginia, officials said.

The dogs were surrendered by Whispering Oaks Kennel in Parkersburg Saturday and officials from the local Humane Society spent the weekend assessing the canines' condition, The Parkersburg News reported Monday. It was the largest animal-rescue operation in the state's history and one of the largest ever nationwide, the newspaper said.

The Wood County Sheriff's Department said Edwin R. Roberts, 73, husband of kennel owner Sharon Roberts, was arrested Sunday after allegedly assaulting and obstructing a police officer.

The dogs were moved to a warehouse temporarily where they were to be checked out by a veterinarian. Dozens of volunteers, including some from other states, were enlisted to clean cages, feed and water the dogs and bring supplies.

The animals ranged from puppies to mature adults. Some were pregnant. Most were in relatively good condition, though some were dehydrated at least one was paralyzed in the rear legs.

"To be able to see one of those close down instead of just taking dogs they've sold has been a dream come true for me," said Humane Society Director Maryann Hollis, just three weeks on the job,