VENICE, Florida - Many of the 263 pure bred dogs taken from a Sarasota County home, are ready for adoption.

Sarasota County Animal Services removed the dogs from a house in Venice last week.

Photo Gallery: Over 250 animals rescued from Venice home

Authorities say most of the Chihuahuas, poodles, schnauzers and other small dogs kept in chicken coop-like structures outdoors had severely matted fur, fleas, intestinal parasites and eye issues.

All the animals were medically evaluated before they were made available for adoption.

See Also: Dog breeding led to animal hoarding, police say

People interested in adopting a dog can contact one of the various rescue groups that are now fostering the animals:

Almost Home, Suncoast Animal League,  Florida Little Dog Rescue,  Honor Sanctuary, Canine Castaways,  Safe Haven, Suncoast Humane Society, Underdog Rescue, Florida Poodle Rescue, VIP Rescue, Kickapoo Rescue, Certified Preowned Dogs, Bay Road Animal Hospital and Ashton Animal Clinic

Criminal charges against the owner are pending.

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