MANATEE -- Thirty-two dogs are in need of homes after their owner voluntarily signed them over to Manatee County Animal Services on Tuesday.

"She was just overwhelmed," said Joel Richmond, enforcement supervisor for Animal Services. "She just had too many animals."

Animal Services first responded to the home in unincorporated Manatee County due to code enforcement violations, Richmond said. Law enforcement agencies were not involved.

Twenty adult dogs and 12 puppies, all appearing to be pitbull mixes, were turned in and are undergoing health tests. He said the animals did not appear to be abused or neglected.

"They're in good shape," Richmond said. "There were some confinement issues. She didn't have the proper housing for all of the animals she had."

Richmond said it is a challenge when the shelter is asked to take in so many animals at one time.

"It's difficult," he said. "We have to make the best of it and make space where we can. We reach out to all of our rescue groups, transfer groups and possible adopters to get the word out."

Most should be available for adoption this week. Six of the puppies already have a foster home, Richmond said.

Anyone interested in adopting can call Animal Services at 941-742-5933 or visit any shelter location.

Elizabeth Johnson, Herald reporter, can be reached at 941-745-7041.