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More Than 50 Dogs Seized From Spring Lake Heights Home

SPRING LAKE HEIGHTS, N.J. (CBSNewYork/AP) -- Authorities say more than 50 dogs and puppies were found living in filth at a home in Spring Lake Heights, New Jersey.

An animal rescue officer says it was apparently an illegal puppy-selling operation. He also says conditions in the home were "horrendous" and not fit for animals or people.

Charges are pending against 69-year-old Muriel Ennis and her 40-year-old son Chad.

Ennis told the Asbury Park Press the dogs became an overwhelming problem when they were dumped off at the home after her partner in a dog-breeding arrangement became ill.

She says "it's been hell.''

Ennis denies the animals are unhealthy.

(TM and Copyright 2011 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2011 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

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