The state has taken 46 dogs from two New Portland houses where officials said they were found malnourished, covered in feces and living in cages.

"It was a disaster," said Norma Worley, director of the state's Animal Welfare Program.

The dogs, mostly medium-sized mixed breeds, were discovered last week after officials received an anonymous complaint. They were found in a pair of homes owned by relatives. The dogs' former owner had moved in October and had given them to a caretaker.

Worley said the animals were also likely living in poor conditions before the caretaker became responsible for them.

"This was a long-term situation," she said. "It didn't happen overnight."

Worley declined to release the caretaker's name, saying the state is considering animal cruelty charges. The dogs - 45 adults and one puppy - were surrendered to the state and sent to shelters on Friday.

The Greater Androscoggin Humane Society in Lewiston is caring for 29 of the dogs. The Kennebec Valley Humane Society in Augusta is caring for eight and the Humane Society-Waterville Area has nine.

"They're much better than they were," said Melissa Hewins, senior technician at the Kennebec Valley Humane Society. "They were pretty excited to get some TLC."

The 46 dogs were matted with feces and suffering from a range of problems, including worms, fleas and mange. The three shelters are cleaning the dogs and assessing them for health and behavioral problems.

All of the dogs will likely be put up for adoption. Some could be ready for new homes in a week or two.

"With love and care, I think they'll be able to turn right around," said Steven Dostie, executive director of the Greater Androscoggin Humane Society.