Corpus Christi Animal Care Services is investigating a disturbing discovery: Mother dogs and puppies left inside carriers zip tied shut with chicken wire.

Police were called to a local hospital over the weekend and found a recycling bin with dogs inside.

Investigators say, “There was soiled newspaper, water bowls, and old dog food at the bottom of the totes. On the side someone had written ‘Found on the street, give them a good home thanks!’"

Then officers responded to another call at a local movie theater and found six adult dogs in a bin covered by a tarp with the same note: "Found on the street, give them a good home thanks!"

Police say they brought a total of eight adult Chihuahua mixes and seven puppies to Animal Care Services. Officials are now investigating this as a case of animal cruelty. If you have any information on who dumped the dogs Corpus Christi investigators want to hear from you.

A Facebook page used to help dogs in need at the city’s shelter reports that the dogs were all saved by FurEver United Rescue.

Corpus Christi Animal Care Services is consistently overloaded with dogs in need and does euthanize for space reasons. The shelter works with in and out-of- state rescue groups. If you’re interested in helping to rescue, foster or adopt a dog, you should also contact the agency.