130 small dogs removed from 'deplorable' conditions in East Lake

EAST LAKE -- Authorities are removing more than 130 small-breed dogs from what sheriff's officials describe as "deplorable" conditions at a home in northern Pinellas County.

Sheriff's deputies, an inspector from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and representatives of the nonprofit Suncoast Animal League responded this afternoon to 339 Ranch Road, south of Keystone Road and east of East Lake Road.

The dogs will be taken to local shelters to be examined, sheriff's officials said. An animal neglect investigation is underway.

-- Times staff writer, Photos by Jim Damaske