Sixteen of 27 dogs rescued in October from a dog-fighting operation in Independence are ready for adoption — including several in Lawrence that are rested, tested and looking for homes for the new year.

The dogs, all of them pit bulls, are available for adoption by licensed rescue operators or regular folks looking for loyal canine companions.

Each animal has been temperament-tested through Game Dog Guardian, a Lawrence organization led by Anthony Barnett, who is a board member at the Lawrence Humane Society. The organization also plans to provide the dogs with training in general obedience skills.

“As far as physical things, the dogs look good,” said Midge Grinstead, executive director of the Humane Society. “One is very timid and fearful, and the others are coming along very well. …

“These dogs were used and abused. They’re great dogs. They make really loyal companions. It’s good to see them treated so well and (ready to) get a loving home.”

For more information about the animals or potential adoptions, contact the Humane Society at 843-6835, or Katie Barnett, president of the Kansas University chapter of the Animal Legal Defense Fund, at 832-8100 or katie@gamedogguardian.com.