Officials removed dogs, birds and livestock from the property.

DENVER, N.C. -- Officials say they've removed 375 animals from a Lincoln County residence.

Lincoln County Animal Services said the final total is almost twice what they expected to find at the residence on Petite Lane in Denver.

On Tuesday, officials had reported the total to be 140 animals.

According to Animal Services, the final count included 160 large and small dogs, 40 cats, 100 rodents, 65 fowl and exotic birds and 10 livestock including horses, ponies, a llama and goats.

Animal Services director Jack Kerley said many of the animals were either malnourished or unhealthy. He said the animals will be examined and placed in proper care.

County employees, fire fighters, rescue personnel and a number of volunteers were caring for the animals at a large warehouse facility in the Denver area. 

No charges have been filed. Investigators are still trying to determine if the home was a puppy mill, or a rescue shelter gone horribly wrong.