COLUMBUS -- A bright future began Wednesday for dogs who've seen dark days.
In August, more than 278 animals, some deceased, were taken by Columbus Humane from what the group called "devastating" conditions.
Now, after weeks of rehabilitation, many of the surviving pets are up for adoption and heading to new homes.
On the first day of adoptions, the line at the humane society was out the door. The group had to let in about 10 groups at a time because there were so many people.
A total of 70 dogs and puppies were up for adoption Wednesday.
It took some time for the case to play out in court so these animals could actually be adopted. Many of them needed medical attention.
"The puppies and adult dogs in this case had a long journey to health and recovery," Columbus Humane CEO Rachel Finney said. "Many of them were sick, had pneumonia and even parvovirus. So we worked very hard from a veterinarian perspective to get them healthy for their homes."
Additional animals will be available Thursday after their surgeries. Columbus Humane is open Thursday from 2 to 7 p.m.
The agency warns there have been more adopters than dogs, but you can check their website for when animals are made available.
As for the owners, earlier this month, they paid a cost-and-care bond for animals they hope to get back.
Britny and Douglas DeVaul did so for five, so two cats and three dogs could be returned after the case.
The DeVauls still face misdemeanor charges related to animal cruelty due to what was found during a raid at their Grove City home.
More charges are possible for conditions at their West Broad Street shop in Columbus, which was also raided.