261 rescued dogs get TLC thanks to Polk County volunteers

Winter Haven, Florida--The Polk County community has come together in a huge way to help hundreds of dogs taken from a Polk City couple.

On Thursday, animal control officers acting on a tip about neglect took 261 dogs of various breeds from Charles and Diane O'Malley. They ran the Mid-Florida Retriever Rescue.

Dog lovers and volunteers from the Labrador Retriever Rescue responded by bringing food, supplies and anything to help get the dogs cleaned up.

PHOTO GALLERY: 261 rescued dogs get TLC

"We're washing animals today. We're making sure they're well taken care of, that someone shows a little love to him and making sure they get the proper vet medical care," said Richard Riga with the Labrador Retriever Rescue.

"The community did what they do so well. They came to our aid with food, with clothing, with volunteer hands and hours and, as a result, we're going to be able to rehab, it appears, every one of these animals. We couldn't do it without the community that cares so much," said Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd.

The sheriff says you can help by donating online, coming by the animal control shelter, or even donating to your local rescue group.

Volunteers plan to put in some more hours tomorrow to finish the work they started today.