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Twenty-five dogs found close to death in the Mat-Su Valley are recovering at Mat-Su Animal Control. It was a story we brought you Wednesday night that touched many of you.

The dogs were near death when Mat-Su Animal Control got to them. All of the animals were severely dehydrated. Some had ropes grown into their neck. Others were covered in cuts and lice.

They were so hungry, officials say they ate rocks.

"They are going to start eating whatever they can eat to get something in their belly. And sometimes, that's rocks. Trying to eat rocks will break their teeth. And a lot of them have broken teeth from trying to do that," said Chief Dave Allison of Mat-Su Animal Care.

Some of the dogs are already doing better. They've even gained some weight. Their owner, Doug Bartko, has now been charged with 15 counts relating to animal neglect and investigation interference.

If you'd like to help the dogs, you can find information by clicking below:

To contact Andrea, call 907-273-3186.