More than two dozen neglected dogs found at puppy mills in Nebraska are now getting some much-needed TLC in Madison. They were found with bad teeth, matted hair and are very scared.  Now one organization is reaching out.

It took a caravan and dozens of kennels. Hearts United for Animals made its largest rescue ever when it took in 106 dogs from eight breeders in Nebraska late last week.

Now Julie Lavin of Almost Home Canine Rescue in Madison is helping lead 27 of them down the road to recovery.

"The biggest thing we are seeing with these dogs is very, very bad teeth.  They're completely caked with tarter and infection and some of the teeth have been rotted into their jaw lines," Lavin said.

It leaves veterinarians with no choice but to pull the teeth, which is all the dog has to keep its tongue from hanging out. But the tooth decay leads to even more serious problems.

"There were so many teeth pulled from his jaw that his jaw is physically broken," vet Bill Ouverson said.

As they tremble in their cages, you can see the fear in their eyes and know their problems go beyond their appearance.

"It's sad for the emotional problems of the dogs because it takes sometimes months to years to trust people again," Ouverson said.

What's most upsetting to rescuers is that what led to this neglect is legal.

"We need stricter laws.  These are dogs who are in pain," Lavin said.

Which is why once the wounds are healed, Lavin's goal is to find the dogs a good home.

"We always need foster families.  All of the dogs are receiving a lot of medical attention right now which is very expensive, so donations are always appreciated.  Dog food is always appreciated, collars, leashes, that type of thing," Lavin said.

With just a little help, they'll get the chance to live their life for the first time.

People can donate by sending money or items to:

Almost Home Canine Rescue
PO Box 129
Madison, SD 57042 

Items can also be dropped off at Lake Vet Clinic in Madison.

You can email Almost Home Canine Rescue for adoption information if you are interested in any of the dogs. They will be ready for adoption after they recover from surgery and are evaluated in foster care homes.

There is also a Rally to Rescue event that is happening on Saturday at Petsmart in Sioux Falls from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Many area rescues will have booths set up to promote their rescue organization and most rescues will have a few dogs up for adoption.