Fire officials said a house fire in Clarksville left four dogs dead while 54 others were rescued.
Clarksville Deputy Fire Chief Ray Williams said the fire Saturday night was accidental. The Leaf-Chronicle reported while the fire was limited to one bedroom and a hallway, there was smoke damage throughout the home.
Montgomery County Animal Control Director Jeanette Farrell said the animals lived in "deplorable conditions" and she labeled the home as a "puppy mill."
Tenant Heather Pascal denied the allegations. She said many dogs were personal pets and others were bred for people who planned to give them as Christmas gifts. She also said the house was in disarray only after firefighters had knocked over items as the fire was extinguished.
The rescued dogs were taken to the animal shelter.
