Torquay, UK - Animal welfare activists were confronted with a horrific sight when they rescued almost 100 neglected dogs from a run-down breeder's house in the UK.

96 dogs, most of whom were Shih Tzus, were in a terrible state when they were discovered at a breeder's house, as many were infested with fleas and worms and completely terrified of people.

The dogs were being bred in the British town of Torquay when members of the RSPCA animal welfare organization said they intervened after being alerted to the pups' "terrible conditions."

Most suffered from severe malnutrition and had open sores, "and their hair was stained with urine and matted with feces."

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Luckily, according to local reports, all of the puppies were rescued last week.

"Thanks to the dedication and kindness of a number of animal rescue centers, the dogs are now receiving care and attention from dedicated staff and volunteers, and once they are ready they will be rehomed," the RSPCA said.

While the dogs are slowly recovering, one center said it is fighting to save the life of one pup, and the mothers of the bunch are suffering from having had "litter after litter."

Police have allegedly launched an investigation to track down all those responsible for the horrific treatment. Those who are found to have caused an animal's unnecessary suffering can be punished with up to five years in prison in the UK.

A spokesperson working at one of the rescue centers working with the recovering puppies said this particular case was one for the books.

"No matter how long you have worked in rescue, you are always shocked when you see an animal that has not been well cared for. There is the initial shock, then we focus on what we can do to help them," they explained.

"It is totally frustrating and heart-breaking."

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"Our hearts are breaking for these dogs, but we're determined to give them the future that they deserve," said another volunteer.

While many of the dogs are currently too sick to be put up for adoption, most have a chance of making a full recovery.