Northwest of Tucson, in a triple-wide trailer in rural Avra Valley, officials are making a most unusual rescue effort.

About 800 small dogs - Chihuahuas, terriers and Pomeranians - are being taken away, along with 82 parrots. 

Jenny Rose, a spokeswoman with Humane Society of Southern Arizona, described filthy conditions and said three dogs were found dead.

She said the rescued dogs will be treated and put up for adoption.

Pima County sheriff’s Sgt. Terry Parish described the elderly couple who live at the home as well-meaning but in a situation that had grown out of control. "They knew they were in over their heads," he said. "We came here and worked out an agreement."

County records show Billy and Wanda Jones own the house, but Parish did not identify the couple, and it was not clear if the property owners also own the animals.

Deputies visited the home after a tip from a woman who had bought a Chihuahua from the couple.

The new pet was diagnosed with kennel cough, and a vet advised her to alert authorities.

"Two people, especially elderly people, trying to care for these animals is just not possible," Parish said.

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