Nine Afghan puppies rescued from a home in Ilfeld on Monday night have succumbed to canine parvovirus, a highly contagious disease, at the Santa Fe Animal Shelter, and one older dog died from tumors.

They were among 67 Afghan hounds — including three pregnant bitches — removed from the property by a task force of officials from San Miguel, Doña Ana and Santa Fe counties.

Susan Stephens of Afghan Rescue New Mexico said four dogs were shipped to out-of-state rescuers and nine more will be transported to Texas today.

"Most of the dogs are close to being placed," Stephens said, adding some might stay in Santa Fe because of local requests to foster them.

Terry Gonzales, the owner of the property, made an emotional visit to the shelter Wednesday, Stephens said, and is in the process of selecting four dogs that she will be allowed to keep.

When rescuers arrived at her home in Ilfeld on Monday night, animals were breeding unsupervised, and dog feces and urine were on the floor of her house. Stephens said she is looking for a company that could clean up and remediate the property. It originally appeared the Red Cross would assume that responsibility, but that is not happening.

Stephens also said the shelter can use clean towels, blankets and donations of food and money for the interim care of the animals.

In addition, Afghan rescue is soliciting funds for drugs and transportation costs. Stephens said a Web site, still under construction at www.rescue.mosso.net, will aid people interested in giving money for care of the dogs.

To reach Stephens, e-mail her at susanpst@newmexico.com.

Contact Anne Constable at 986-3022 or aconstable@sfnewmexican.com.