Barrie police say 14 dogs that were found in "deplorable and unsanitary conditions" are now in the care of the Sarnia Humane Society.
Police provided an update on Thursday in connection with the case that has resulted in a mother and daughter from the Sarnia area facing criminal charges.
On January 27, officers were alerted by a concerned citizen that numerous dogs and one cat were left unattended overnight in two unheated vehicles at a Bryne Drive hotel in Barrie.
Police claim the owners of the animals manipulated the kindness of several local agencies and church organizations to obtain financial support.
Three dogs and a cat were turned over to the Barrie OSPCA.
Investigators said one of those rescued dogs, a German Shepherd, was underfed, emaciated and lethargic, and underwent emergency surgery to remove a foreign object from its stomach. The animal survived and continues to recover.
Police say two women, ages 23 and 54, left Barrie without paying for the vet expenses and took the remaining dogs with them.
A few days later, the women surrendered to Sarnia police.
They have been charged with causing unnecessary suffering and two counts of causing damage or injury.
Banner image - supplied - Barrie Police
