CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A 10-day-old puppy was among several dogs rescued from a hoarding situation on Monday after authorities say the owner was found dead on the property.

• Authorities say owner was found dead on property, which led to discovery of more than 30 Australian Shepherds
• Dogs were found alive, dead, and in various states of decay due to a lack of food and water
• 16 are now in the care of the Humane Society of Charlotte

The Humane Society of Charlotte (HSC) says it was called to assist after more than 30 Australian Shepherds were located on a woman's property in Roxboro, North Carolina.

Officials say the woman, who at one time was a registered Australian Shepherd breeder, was found dead during a welfare check. While searching the premises, several living dogs were found among dozens that were deceased and in various stages of decomposition.

"Clear signs of cannibalism" were also found, according to officials with the Humane Society.

“This clearly was a hoarding situation,” said Zach Boerboom, Behavior Specialist at HSC. “She may have been a viable breeder at some point in time, but it was apparently a very long time since that was the case.”

During their search, crews found a 10-day-old puppy, alive, next to several deceased dogs.

“It’s an absolute miracle to have found this puppy alive,” said Libby Jones, Vice President of Operations for the Humane Society of Charlotte. "He is our little “Christmas Miracle.”"

The Humane Society of Charlotte says it removed 16 dogs from the property and brought them to their shelter in Charlotte. The pups are receiving full medical care and undergoing behavioral evaluation to determine the extent of the rehabilitation that will be needed.

“These dogs have a long road of recovery ahead as they’ve been severely neglected and need to learn how to be pets,” Jones said.

One dog, Adelaide, has already been cleared for adoption. The Humane Society of Charlotte posted a brief story about her on its Facebook page Wednesday, and says, while she will need some special considerations due to her past, Adelaide is well on her way to becoming a "very loving dog."

To find out more information on these animals and ways you can help, please visit the Humane Society of Charlotte's website.