BILLINGS - Two dozen dogs that were seized from a Ballantine breeder last year are on a cross-country bus trip to new homes.

The animals departed Tuesday in a school bus that was converted into a mobile kennel for delivery to new owners in seven states. Four handlers are accompanying the dogs on the five-day journey to Connecticut and back.

Kathi Tesarz, president of the National English Shepherd Rescue, says the group is dubbing it the English Shepherd Freedom Tour.

About 20 more dogs are still waiting for placement in a home. The rescue group is also managing those adoptions.

Linda Kapsa pleaded no contest to aggravated animal cruelty after more than 200 dogs were found without adequate food, water, shelter and care. A judge sentenced her to 20 years of probation in August.