BEMIDJI, Minn. (AP) - Authorities in northern Minnesota are investigating after up to 55 dogs and some cats were found living inside two mobile homes.

The animals were discovered after authorities did a welfare check on two women at a rural Bemidji residence.

The Beltrami Environmental Agency, the Federated Humane Society and Beltrami Social Services are involved in the investigation.

Deputy Lee Anderson tells The Bemidji Pioneer (http://bit.ly/y2qcG9) the incident is "fairly serious" and the investigation is ongoing.

Information from: Pioneer, http://www.bemidjipioneer.com

(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

Authorities say that Range Regional Rescue shelter in Hibbing needs help, because they've taken in 38  malnourished dogs.

St. Louis County responded to a home near Orr. The dogs were found there, after the owner left a note that said she and they were starving.

The dogs are at the shelter for a mandatory 10 days, and are being checked out by a veterinarian.

Charges against the 59-year-old woman are pending.

If you want to help the shelter, please call them: 218-262-1900

Benefit to be held on Saturday, February 5th at 6:30 PM at Aces on 29th, 2827 Oakes Avenue in Superior.  Tickets are $10.00 and available at the Animal Resue Federation Shelter at 2225 Hill Avenue or you may call Cede at 218-390-5823.  Tickets will also be sold at the door.

Your ticket includes dinner at 6:30 PM, silent auction and live band "Shot in the Dark" from 9:00 AM to 11:30 PM.