"The small shih tzu-like dogs were so badly matted, some with their own excrement, that their faces were not visible and one could not easily distinguish the front from the back of the dog," said Animal Control spokesperson C.L. Lopez.
The dogs were cleaned up by Animal Control staff and groomers from Cutie Pie's Grooming.
"Babe," seen above, is now healthy and happy, recovering at the Devore Animal Shelter. He and the other dogs have been released for adoption.
The dogs are available to adopters and rescues at the Devore Animal Shelter at 19777 Shelter Way, San Bernardino.
Visit facebook.com/homewardboundpets or call (909) 386-9820 for more information.