44 dogs saved from heat exposure in southeast Nebraska

AUBURN, Neb. -- The heat can be dangerous for humans, but for dogs, a hot environment could be deadly.

That's why rescue workers from Hearts United for Animals saved 44 Mini Australian Shepherds from a building with no air conditioning in southeast Nebraska Monday.

A breeder surrendered the dogs to the animal rescue which has a shelter in Auburn. Rescuers said they found that the Mini Aussies had access to only small amounts of filthy water.

Hearts United for Animals described the breeding operation as puppy mill.

The rescue said donations are needed to help care for a large influx of dogs.