Bay Minette, Alabama – During an inspection of a property in Alabama, officials discovered a dead dog in a kennel, and soon after, 15 other pups were rescued. Many of them were severely malnourished, lacking food and clean water.

The charity Rosalie and Friends took in several dogs from the shelter – even though they are already inundated with pleas for help and constantly have to turn animals away because of a lack of money, space, and foster homes.

But they couldn't look the other way in this case.

The volunteers plan to adopt five of the rescued dogs: two severely underweight puppies, a dachshund with numerous health issues, and two small Chihuahuas.

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The two puppies are in critical condition. According to the organization, each weighs only five pounds.

Normally, they should weigh around 15 pounds, so they're only about a third of their expected weight. In addition, they're suffering from severe anemia and a massive parasite infestation.

The animals are so weak that even feeding can become dangerous. Therefore, they receive their food according to a strictly controlled plan, as too much food at once could worsen their already critical condition.

While the volunteers were still dealing with that emergency, another call for help arrived: The Escambia County Animal Welfare asked the organization to take in an older female dog.

She is also seriously ill. According to workers, she tested positive for heartworms and is already showing respiratory problems. They fear the disease may be advanced, but a veterinary examination will determine how she can be helped.

The rescue also puts a financial strain on the small organization – the initial exams have already cost $600.

At least there is hope: According to the Baldwin County Animal Shelter, the condition of the rescued animals is already improving.