YPSILANTI TOWNSHIP, MI - The Humane Society is looking for new homes for some pets the agency took possession of from an Ypsilanti Township residence.

According to a statement by the Humane Society of Huron Valley, a person said they had visited the residence to buy a puppy and saw many Shih Tzu dogs being kept in cages with chickens in a bedroom. The animals were covered in urine and feces, the person told the agency.

The Humane Society sent investigators to the residence April 18, who found 17 Shih Tzus in need of medical attention, with their fur matted from feces, the agency said. Also found at the residence were a pair of lovebirds, a parakeet, a Rouen duck, a pony and a miniature horse, the Humane Society said.

Melinda Szabelski, cruelty and rescue supervisor at the Humane Society, said in a statement the owner is cooperating with investigators and she is thankful to the person who reported the living conditions of the animals.

"We're relieved he recognized the need for assistance and so glad we're able to get the animals the help they need," Szabelski said.

A majority of the animals taken from the Ypsilanti Township residence are being treated at the Humane Society, the statement said, with the pony still under medical evaluation and the miniature horse taken in by SASHA Farm, an animal sanctuary in Manchester.

The animals are receiving medical care and will be available for adoption through the Humane Society, though the nonprofit organization said many of the dogs are scared, not house-trained and will require further medical attention.

"They will need extra patient adopters who can help build their confidence and provide for their special needs," the statement said.

This Week in Intake- 4/12/18- 4/18/18 As you can see, we took in quite a variety of animals this week! Pictured here... Posted by Humane Society of Huron Valley on Thursday, April 19, 2018

The Humane Society is accepting donations to assist in the treatment of the animals surrendered and for other rescue services online.

Residents can call 734-661-3512 for suspected reports of animal cruelty in Washtenaw County or go online to fill out a form for investigators.

Tanya Hilgendorf, president and CEO of the Humane Society of Huron Valley, said the situation serves as a reminder for those looking to buy an animal to visit their organization or a reputable shelter first and to do their homework.

"Even places that call themselves a 'rescue' may not be legitimate. Please never buy animals from pet stores or online, at flea markets, or out of the back of a truck," Hilgendorf said in a statement. "Always be sure you can see with your own eyes the quality of care the animals are receiving. Whether they are from puppy mills or backyard breeders, you don't want to inadvertently support cruelty through your dollars."