The line outside Polk County Animal Services started forming before 6 a.m. today. Hundreds of people wanted the chance to adopt one of the small dogs inside.
"I like to get a dog that needs a home," said Linda Nelson, who was among the first to arrive.
There has been a lot of interest in the dogs since Polk deputies seized them last month from the Lakeland home of Bradley and Elizabeth Roden.
Investigators said they found more than 180 dogs, mostly small breeds, living in filthy cages inside the mobile home and in the yard. The dogs had health issues ranging from heartworm to mange.
"That doesn't bother me," Nelson said. "That just makes me want them more to give them a good home."
She decided to adopt a Yorkie. She hadn't picked out a name yet but said it was love at first sight.
"She's a sweetheart," Nelson said. "We're going to take her home and give her some loving."
Animal Control workers spent the past six weeks nursing the dogs back to health and 70 were well enough to be adopted. Lt. Steven Horstman said the others will be placed with rescue groups or in shelters but eventually will find homes.
Authorities said the Rodens, who face multiple charges, gave up custody of the animals, clearing the way for today's event.
Rene Thomas brought her daughters, Holly, 7, and Heather, 9, to find a new dog. They settled on a gray and white terrier mix.
They had to make up their minds quickly. With so many people, the dogs went fast.
"We've seen a few cute puppies that have already been adopted," Heather said.
nshepherd@wfla.com
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