CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Fire officials say a house fire in Clarksville has left four dogs dead while 54 others were rescued.

Clarksville Deputy Fire Chief Ray Williams says the fire Saturday night was accidental. The Leaf-Chronicle (http://leafne.ws/2g81hoD ) reports that while the fire was limited to one bedroom and a hallway, there was smoke damage throughout the home.

Montgomery County Animal Control Director Jeanette Farrell says the animals lived in "deplorable conditions" and she labeled the home as a "puppy mill."

Tenant Heather Pascal denied the allegations. She says many dogs were personal pets and others were bred for people who planned to give them as Christmas gifts. She also says the house was in disarray only after firefighters had knocked over items as the fire was extinguished.

The rescued dogs were taken to the animal shelter.