Animal control officials in Kitsap County rescued 26 animals this week, mostly small dogs, from what were described as “deplorable” conditions in an uninhabited home in central Kitsap County.

Photos show a number of small dogs covered in dirty, matted fur and surrounded by grime and feces. “Many of the dogs were kept in filthy cages,” a Kitsap Humane Society press release states. “Two dogs were found locked in a laundry room.”

Four cats, five rabbits and one guinea pig were also recovered from the home near Chico. All of the animals will survive, the Humane Society said, but were in immediate need of extensive grooming, as well as “dental cleanings and extractions” and “treatment for hair loss and skin infections.”

The homeowner reportedly lives outside the county and visited every other day to give the animals food and water, according to the release. Kitsap County animal control supervisor Chase Connolly told the Kitsap Sun that the case is being investigated for possible animal cruelty charges.

“It’s the most horrific hoarding case I’ve seen in all my eight years at the shelter,” Connolly said.

The Humane Society is seeking volunteers to adopt the animals. Many are fearful and nervous around people, “though several remain curious and interested in receiving attention despite all they have been through,” the release states. The animals are not house trained and likely have not worn collars or been walked on a leash. Interested adopters should be prepared to provide “continued patience and gentle care” to attend to the neglected animals, the release states.

“These dogs have been denied the basic socialization and care that all dogs deserve,” said Sarah Moody-Cook of the Humane Society. “But they are survivors. We are confident that in dedicated adoptive homes, over time they will blossom into wonderful little family members.”