JOHNSTON COUNTY, N.C. — Two dogs stolen from the Johnston County SPCA Friday are back in the caring hands of shelter workers.

Lucky and Dexter, two pit bull mixes, are being treated for multiple puncture wounds and gashes. Shelter workers believe the dogs were used in a dogfight.

A tip led police to a mobile home where Dexter was found tied up. Lucky was found running loose. Five other dogs were also found on the property, including two dead dogs.

Lucky and Dexter are being treated with antibiotics and shunts to drain their wounds.

While their physical injuries will heal, shelter workers are concerned about the dogs' emotional health.

"We work with these guys for weeks and months to get them happy and healthy and well-adjusted and ready to go to a new home," said Angela Lee of the Johnston County SPCA.

Lee said that the dogs, which were gentle and loving, have already shown signs of aggression toward other dogs. She said neither dog did so before they were stolen.

Shelter workers said that even though dogfighting is a felony, most people get off with a mere slap on the wrist.

So far, no charges have been filed.