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Mike Chilinski of Jefferson County is being charged with five felonies and one misdemeanor after allegedly operating a puppy mill and a marijuana grow operation in his home.

The Jefferson County Sheriff's office arrested Chilinski on Wednesday after they discovered more than 140 malamute dogs and 200 marijuana plants at his residence.

Jefferson County Attorney Matthew Johnson says the Sheriff's office had been conducting an investigation into Chilinski's breeding business.

The County Attorney is charging Chilinski with three felonies in conjuntion with the marijuana grow operation and two felony animal cruelty charges.

On Thursday, Chilinski pled not guilty to animal cruelty, but is waiting for a public defender to enter his plea on the rest of the charges.

The County Attorney says because this is an ongoing investigation there could be more charges filed.

The judge set Chilinski's bond at $150,000.

The Lewis & Clark Humane Society has taken the malamutes into its care in Helena and already created a web page with information, including this overview of the dogs:

Right now they are resting comfortably, receiving food, shelter and water and plenty of loving care! Until we hear from the Jefferson County's attorney's office, they are unable to be adopted. Please check this website frequently and we will update you as we have more information. If you are interested in volunteering, please call Jessie at 442-1660.

Executive director Gina Wiest said, "We don't know how one person could have taken the care that was needed for these animals. As it is, the example is that I have a crew of 20 people who are on staff to do just regular stuff at the shelter and it takes that many people."

Wendy Hergenraeder of the Humane Society of the U.S. noted, "This is a prime example of a large-scale breeding facility and what we need is stronger laws in Montana to regulate these types of breeding facilities."

Due to the overwhelming number of dogs, the shelter is in need of donations.

PetSmart has donated kennels and food but Wiest says she has no idea how long the dogs will be there.

NOTE: raw video above is courtesy of The Humane Society of the United States