LINCOLN COUNTY -- Hundreds of animals were pulled from an animal rescue after authorities received complaints of mistreatment. The animals included dogs, cats and even livestock in an event authorities are calling Operation Noah’s Ark.

"It's a sad shame that an animal is in this condition and has to live in this kind of environment,” said Jack Kerley, director of animal services in Lincoln County.

Dozens of law enforcement officers and volunteers arrived at Vicki Rauch’s property on Petite Lane in Lincoln County on Tuesday for the rescue after police say neighbors complained.

"Some of the neighbors had been complaining about the smell and the noise factor,” said neighbor Bryan Somers.

“We have had numerous complaints over a period of time,” added Kerley.

After the incident, Rauch spoke by phone with News 14 Carolina to give her side of the story.

“I do animal rescue, and I've been doing this for over 20 years so I take young dogs -- it don't matter if they are completely hairless, skin and bones, stuff that people can't afford to take to vets -- and I treat them and then I find homes for them,” she explained.

While Rauch says she tried to help the animals, law enforcement describes a different scene.

“Some animals look malnourished, some of them look sick, some of them have skin problems,” said Kerley.

Police believe Rauch had started a dog breeding facility, then began rescuing animals. Officials found animals living outside in pens – and more than 50 living inside the house.

The animals are now living in a 80,000 square foot facility where they will be looked at by a veterinarian who will determine what’s next for the animals.

Police say Rauch was previously convicted for not having up-to-date rabies shots for her animals. They add there is not enough room in the Lincoln County animal shelter to house all of the animals.

A veterinarian will take a closer look at them on Wednesday.