MAHONING COUNTY, Ohio - 17 animals rescued from deplorable conditions resulting in a Youngstown home on South Avenue are recovering, and two of the almost 20 animals rescued had to be humanely euthanized.

These animals are just a small percentage of the over 400 animals taken in this year through the Animal Charity Humane Society.

"One lept into my arms when I opened the door and just gave me a hug," Jane Macmurchy, Adoption Coordinator for Animal Charity Humane Society in Youngstown said, "A cat latched onto me and just didn't want to be left. It was sad."

The charity said the increasing numbers of abuse and hoarding in recent months are a result of factors such as increased crime, health issues, and drug addiction.

"You've got one group of people that are using specifically dogs to help protect their criminal activities and then you have another group of people who have other issues...whether they're health issues, physical health, mental health, emotional health," Mary Louk, Board President of the Animal Charity said. 

The animal charity has rescued so many animals, they've now turned office space like this into living space for the animals.

Louk said she wants to see more done in the justice system. 

"We would like to see the courts take a much harsher view of this," she said. 

Mahoning County Common Pleas Judge Anthony D'Apalito said the laws are there to bar ownership of animals, but the owner needs to meet certain criteria of abuse like beating or depriving an animal of food.

"I appreciate their advocacy," D'Apolito said, "I think it's important these animals who don't have a voice literally have a voice and they are to be heard and considered."

The South Avenue animals rescued are now recovering from major health issues and Louk said they are in the process of determining who the owners are. 

The Animal Charity Humane Society said over a hundred animals are available for adoption and they're always looking for volunteers, and ask that you report any signs of animals in bad conditions.