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The Lewis & Clark Humane Society (LCHS) in Helena has moved 161 malamutes off its property.

The Shelter took the dogs in on October 12th after the owner, Mike Chilinski, was arrested and charged with animal cruelty in Jefferson County.

The Humane Society reports the dogs are being held at an undisclosed location for the pets' safety. The new location is larger and more secure and has more amenities.

"The decision to move the dogs was made by LCHS staff and staff of the Humane Society of the United States in conjunction with the Jefferson County attorney's office," said Liz Harrison, an official with the Lewis and Clark Humane Society.

Chilinski is charged with 91 felony counts of animal cruelty.

When law enforcement found the animals they also found more than 300 marijuana plants. Chilinski faces three other felony charges including possession of dangerous drugs.

Jefferson County is filing a petition in civil court for an animal welfare hearing where they will ask Chilinski to assist in costs of caring for the confiscated animals.

Harrison noted that the shelter continues to receive donations from concerned dog lovers throughout the world as well as from Helena. "We continue to be grateful for the outpouring of support for the dogs and it will continue to be needed as the case works its way through the courts."