NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) – Three people are charged after Metro Nashville police say 21 dogs were rescued from a dog fighting operation in Nashville.

Authorities reported they were executing a heroin-related search warrant at a home on Rowan Drive, not far from Whites Creek Pike, when they discovered evidence of dog fighting.

The 21 dogs, 11 adults and 10 puppies, all of the pit bull variety, were seized and are now in the care of Metro Animal Control.PHOTOS: Alleged dog fighting ring in Nashville

Police said the dogs were found either chained or in cages behind the home, along with a treadmill believed to have been used to train the dogs and syringes allegedly used to administer chemicals to them.

The property is reportedly owned by John Gooch, 45, who now faces 10 counts of animal fighting and 6 counts of aggravated animal cruelty.

Police said a second man, 30-year-old James Burgess, was living at the home at the time of the search warrant and has been charged with 9 counts of animal fighting and 5 counts of aggravated animal cruelty.

Both men were also charged Tuesday with conspiracy to distribute heroin and remain in the Metro Jail.

Gooch’s girlfriend, Shawn Massey, faces one count of animal fighting and one count of aggravated animal cruelty. A mug shot for Massey was not released.