LJWorld Mobile

The Lawrence community showed up in droves over the weekend, hoping to adopt one of 49 dogs rescued from an unauthorized Marshall County breeder.

Midge Grinstead, executive director of the Lawrence Humane Society, said about 400 people came to look at the dogs Saturday, followed by about 200 Sunday.

“They were lined up out the door,” she said.

In all, 47 of the dogs found homes. Only two Huskies remain.

Some 187 dogs were rescued from the breeder, who kept them in fetid conditions. Many of the dogs were malnourished, according to the Kansas Animal Health Department.

“I think people just want to help and want to make a difference, and this is a real good chance to do it,” Grinstead said. She called the community’s response “heartwarming.”

One of the dogs, a Shih Tzu, gave birth to seven puppies Saturday.

“I just am so thrilled that they’re going home,” Grinstead said. “They’re so gentle and sweet after what they’ve gone through.”