It was, indeed, a lucky break for these animals - 12 dogs, a cat and a Burmese python – when their unfortunate plight was accidentally discovered.

Law enforcers went to 24514 Audubon Drive to arrest John Stansfield for theft and dealing in stolen property. In the course of performing their duty, they saw the pets in the house which was full of feces and urine. They were appalled by the animals' health and living conditions.

The problem was referred to the Hernando County Animal Services, which conducted an investigation. This led to the arrest of Debra Ann Harmon, the middle-aged pet owner, on 14 misdemeanor counts of cruelty to animals.

Authorities found the floor of Harmon's house soaked with urine and littered with feces. The dogs are unkempt, infested with fleas, and suffering from skin problems like mange and bald spots. The black cat has lost its right eye and several teeth. The snake did not fare any better. The dog crate it was kept in had plenty of feces and snake skin shreddings.

The animals were taken from the house and brought to a veterinarian. The results of the evaluation were saddening. A pit bull had to be euthanized because it was terribly sick from flea and worm infestation. The cat with the missing eye may have to be put down as well.

Harmon said that she has been adopting homeless dogs for many years. She claims that she knows how to care for all the animals and is aware of the health conditions and treatments for each pet. She then enumerated the dogs' name and breeds, and the circumstances surrounding each adoption.

Authorities suspect that her neglect stems from being overwhelmed by the number of animals she had to handle. Under her care were 22 dogs, 3 cats and a snake - some of them had serious health problems.

Harmon turned over custody of the animals to Animal Services. Some of the pets will be available for adoption.