Omaha, NE - It's an absolutely heartbreaking scene.  Eight dogs, too scared to come out of their cages because they've never been allowed to.  "Hearts United for Animals" rescued the dogs from an auction and then stopped by our studio to introduce them.

Two SUV's full of dogs.  Six schnauzers, a maltese and a pregnant poodle.  We line the cages up in our studio.  This moment is their first taste of freedom.  All were left at the end of an auction, facing death.  HUA paid .25 for each, saving them from being put to sleep, saying they deserve a chance to live.

Lori Hook:  "We're hoping there's a day where there will be no more dog auctions and from the prices that we're seeing at the dog auctions, we're thinking that will probably be very soon."

Their old lives so fresh, auction tags are still wrapped around their necks.  Some dogs are too scared to completely step out of their cages.  The pregnant poodle doesn't hesitate.  She has infected ears, rotted teeth, and a lot of love to give.

Lori Hook:  "You can tell the dog has suffered tremendously.  She doesn't even hold her head up on her own because she's used to being in a cage."

As quick as they arrive, they load-up or try to load-up to leave.  Hitting the road to a better life.

Lori Hook:  "They should adjust well to new homes.  They seem like they're resilient."

HUA will put the dogs up for adoption.  HUA is a no-kill shelter, which means they'll keep them until they find them a home.  On a side note, the shelter has another 300 dogs also looking for homes.

Reported by Kerri Stowell, kstowell@action3news.com.