CATAWBA COUNTY, N.C. -- Catawba County officers have seized more than 100 dogs while investigating a possible puppy mill at a home southeast of Newton.

Catawba County Animal Services officers said they received an anonymous tip Monday about the conditions at the property on Bud Arndt Road. They went out to the home and said they found a large number of dogs that were being bred for resale while being kept in unhealthy, unsanitary conditions.

Officers said the dogs’ owners, Eric and Gail Weaver, have agreed to sign over all the animals to Catawba County Animal Servies. Officials said there are at least 115 rat terriers and eight to 12 Great Danes.

"Catawba County Animal Services is working with rat terrier and Great Dane rescue groups, the Humane Societies of Catawba County and surrounding counties, and the national Humane Society to develop sufficient resources to house these animals," said Jay Blatche, Catawba County Animal Services manager. "All of the animals will be evaluated by a team of veterinarians led by the county's contract vet, Dr. Martha Hartsell, before any attempt will be made to adopt them into new homes. This team will examine the animals and make decisions regarding their adoptability."

The dogs will initially be kept under tents in a fenced area next to the animal shelter in Newton. They’ll be held in portable cages until their health is determined.

"Until we have completed the transfer of the animals and they have all undergone a complete assessment by the vets to make sure they are adoptable, we will not know how quickly animals will be able to be made available for adoption or fostering, nor will we be sure of the full need for volunteers and/or donations needed to assist in this rescue effort," Blatche concluded. "When we have this information, we will release it to the public."