More than 30 dogs have been rescued from "horrendous, filthy conditions" near Russellville.
The Humane Society of Missouri Animal Cruelty Task Force picked up 32 dogs at the request of the Moniteau County Sheriff's Office.
The rescued dogs include five four-week-old beagle-mix puppies and three eight-week-old puppies of unknown breed. The other dogs appeared to be mixed-breed dachshunds, border collies, chihuahuas, pit bulls and pointers.
Citing "horrendous, filthy conditions, Humane Society officials said the dogs had been living in a waste-filled, trash-strewn double-wide trailer.
Most had severe hair loss and exhibited constant scratching from skin irritation. The also have external and internal parasites and other veterinary problems such as eye, ear and respiratory infections.
Following discussion with the Humane Society of Missouri and the Moniteau County Sheriff's Office, the owner agreed to voluntarily surrender the dogs to the Humane Society.
The society's animal cruelty task force will recommend animal abuse charges against the animals' owner.
"It is heartbreaking to see animals suffering from obviously long-term neglect," said Humane Society President Kathy Warnick. "We are proud and grateful we are able to provide the lengthy and extensive professional care they will need before we find them the forever homes they truly deserve."
The dogs will be taken to the society's headquarters in St. Louis where they will be examined by veterinarians and will begin receiving treatment to relieve their suffering from the extreme itching.
Because the treatment for this skin condition can take several months, these dogs will not be immediately available for adoption.