Rescued, 82 chihuahuas kept in ‘filthy and cramped’ house
As a result of inbreeding, some of the animals had serious behavioural issues and were extremely aggressive and unhappy.
“They were all hiding – barking and snapping at us,” added Mr Boal.
West Midlands Police had launched an investigation into the woman’s death in Birmingham last April.
Inquiries showed there were no suspicious circumstances and she had died from complications after an accident.
Details of the horror emerged during filming for tomorrow’s episode of Channel 5’s The Dog Rescuers.
All 82 dogs were removed and taken to the charity’s Newbrook Farm Animal Hospital in Birmingham.
Inspector Boal added: “The woman and her husband, Stephen, had started out with two pet chihuahuas – Blue and Tinkerbell. Unfortunately, they didn’t get their dogs and four years later…
“This was a classic hoarding situation but it was clear the couple had loved their dogs and things had got out of hand.
“We worked with Stephen to renovate and clean the home while we cared for the dogs. We neutered returned four of the dogs to him and re-homed the rest.
“It’s so important to neuter pets, not only to avoid unwanted litters but also to avoid inbreeding which can result in serious health and behaviour problems.”
The Dog Rescuers, Channel 5, tomorrow, 7pm.