Two dogs found abandoned and malnourished in a Brevard County home are safe and getting care. But vets say one of them was just days away from dying.

  • Dogs found in abandoned home in Grant-Valkaria Thursday
  • Dogs had been alone for weeks, left to fend for themselves
  • Deputies are searching for the owners

The search continues, meanwhile, for the owners who left the dogs at the home in the south part of Brevard County.

"I don't think it gets much worse when it comes to neglect and overall condition of the animals," BCSO veterinarian Dr. R.J. Edwards said.

Each dog is 1-2 years old and weighs only 20 pounds. At their ages, they should be more than double that.

"It's an egregious act of animal cruelty," he said.

A neighbor got in touch with deputies for a welfare check Thursday on the people who live at the home.

It turns out they were gone, but the dogs were left behind to fend for themselves, finding dirty water wherever they could.

It's thought they were on their own for weeks.

Animal services officers brought them to the shelter. The dogs have mange, parasites and other health issues.

The staff is feeding the starving pair, and already the dogs are showing signs of progress.

"You can tell they appreciate it. It's amazing to me that time after time when these animals are in such horrible condition, that nine times out of 10 these are the sweetest dogs in the world. And they don't harbor any ill will toward people," said Dr. Edwards.

What's next for the dogs?

More care as they rebound back to health. Once the case is resolved it's hoped they will be put up for adoption.

Once found, the owners will face felony animal cruelty charges.