Two men arrested after 43 puppies are found crammed in parked vehicle

(CBS) CHICAGO - Two Iowa men were charged with animal cruelty after police found 43 puppies in a parked vehicle Tuesday.

CBS Chicago reports law enforcement officials observed a suspicious vehicle around 7 a.m. An officer heard loud barking coming from the back of the vehicle and found dozens of dogs in cramped containers, without sufficient food or water.

22-year-old Travis Wester and 49-year-old Larry Subject were arrested and each charged with one misdemeanor count of failing to meet animal owner duties, plus 43 misdemeanor counts of cruelty to animals.

The suspects were due in court Wednesday for a bond hearing.

Chicago's Department of Animal Care and Control is assisting with the investigation and took custody of the puppies, a statement said.