A shocking discovery for Fulton County firefighters over the weekend. Sunday, more than 80 dogs were found in a house fire on Lori Lane.

"There were about 15 to 20 dogs outside in the backyard, but when I opened the front door all I could see was dogs," Fulton County Animal Services' Tim Poorman said.

Poorman told FOX 5 News on Monday, the discovery is one of the worst cases of animal hoarding they've ever seen.

"It's one of the top five worst ones we've seen," Poorman said. "The house was covered with feces and urine. All of these dogs were living on the 2000 square foot property."

The homeowner who has not yet been identified is facing misdemeanor animal cruelty charges.

"They are misdemeanor charges because we couldn't find any malice," Poorman said. "But in my experience, that means he will likely have to pay a hefty fine and probably won't be able to own any animals for as long as the judge sees fit."

The dogs are now in the care of Fulton County Animal Services.

"We had close to 300 dogs before this and now we've got well over," Poorman said. "We are busting at the seams."

The animals are receiving medical treatment and behavioral assessments before they will be available for adoption.

"The public can help by coming and adopting the dogs we had here previously," Poorman said.

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