FOLSOM, Calif. -- A homeowner was arrested Thursday on suspicion of animal neglect after three dogs and two birds were found in his vacant home in "extremely dirty" conditions, police said.

Moodhamen U-Yon, 36, was cited with misdemeanor animal neglect charges, officers said.

U-Yon and his family allegedly moved out of the home in the 300 block of Catterline Way a few months ago and left the animals behind, police said.

When police arrived at the home they found two dogs in the back yard, including a Great Dane. The Great Dane was so emaciated you could see the ribs and spine, said Michelle Beattie, of the Folsom Police Department.

Two birds, along with a dachshund surrounded by several days' worth of feces and urine and chained to a sliding-glass door, were also found in the home.

Some neighbors told KCRA 3, however, that they are surprised that U-Yon is facing animal neglect charges and that they saw a person stop by the home two times within the last month.

"They were a really loving family as far as I know," said neighbor Larry Nakano.

Some officials said the number of neglected or abandoned pets is on the rise because of tough economic times and the growing number of foreclosures.

In fact, officials at the Sacramento County Animal Shelter said that U-Yon surrendered his pets to the animal shelter Thursday and told police he had financial problems.

The animals are currently up for adoption at the shelter.