MIDDLEBORO — With tails wagging and paws at times barely touching the ground, six dogs romped in the outdoor play area at the Middleboro Animal Shelter Monday, Nov. 25, under a bright winter sun.

For these dogs, the freedom to run and play, a mainstay in most dogs’ lives, represents a new experience.

They had previously been kept in kennels, without access to food and water at 53 Precinct St. before a warrant was executed Oct. 18 and the animals were rescued.

The dogs have a second chance through the efforts of the Middleboro Animal Control and the MSCPA-Angell Hospital. 

“They’re so nice and happy, and that’s so nice to see, especially coming from such a sad story,’’ Board of Health Agent Kayla Smith said.

Six of the dogs are now living at the Middleboro Animal Shelter and are available for adoption. That did not come without loving care, patience and plenty of food to get them to a healthy weight, Smith and Animal Control Officer Kevin Racicot said. 

Many of the dogs were emaciated when they were removed from the home.

“They have put on a lot of weight,’’ Smith said with a smile.

While many of the 17 dogs remain under the care of MSPCA-Angell Hospital, six of the dogs are now living at the Middleboro Animal Shelter and are available for adoption.

They include two Great Pyrenees and a Great Pyrenees mix, an Australian shepherd, and two miniature Dalmations. 

The Pyrenees and Pyrenees mix _ named Apollo, Casper and Moo _ are gentle giants, happy to run and play with toys in the outdoor area but also content to chill out in their indoor-outdoor kennels and watch the world go by.

Miniature Dalmations Spot and Dottie are more high-energy, greeting visitors with friendly nuzzles and then just as quickly running off together for more play time.

Australian shepherd Tanner is a little shy around males, although Racicot notes he has become more comfortable. He is a sweet dog who even does tricks. 

The shelter is also home to two dogs, unrelated to the case, that also need loving homes. Terry is a six-year-old pitbull terrier mix and Arlo is a Lab mix rescued from the streets of Antigua with a more independent personality. 

Shelter staff and volunteers worked for many hours to help socialize the dogs, Smith said.

“They were friendly, but they needed a lot of love and attention,’’ Smith said.   Now, she said, they seem to understand that “we are here to protect them.’’

The community has also helped the animals by responding enthusiastically to a call for donations of food and pet items. Smith noted that so many items were received that the shelter had to bring in a large storage container.

Volunteers have also stepped up to help walk, feed and otherwise care for the animals. 

“The community outreach has been phenomenal," Smith said. 

The previous owner of the animals, Kimberly Savino, is facing 20 charges of animal cruelty, subsequent offense, in connection with the case. She is scheduled to return to court Dec. 10.

But while her fate remains uncertain, the dogs that had been in her care appear to face bright futures.

“It’s been a joy to see them acclimate,’’ Smith said.

Anyone interested in adopting the dogs should call the shelter at 508-946-2455 or email kracicot@middleboroughma.gov.