July 10, 2026, 4:06 p.m. ET
A zebra, an emu and alpacas were among the 60 animals removed from a Nebraska property after investigators say they were living in unsafe and unsanitary conditions.
In a July 9 Facebook post, the Nebraska Humane Society said its personnel executed a search warrant at a West Omaha residence following an anonymous tip about animals’ well-being. Officials said a mix of exotic animals, livestock and domestic pets were living on the property, including dogs, cats, chickens, ducks, geese, donkeys, goats and pigs.
Steve Glandt, executive vice president of field operations for the Nebraska Humane Society, told local TV station WOWT that investigators were prepared for the rescue operation but remained overwhelmed by the number of animals they encountered.
“As prepared as we thought we were, we were still overwhelmed when we got there,” Glandt said, adding that crews needed multiple trips to transport the animals from the property.
The animals were taken into the care of the Nebraska Humane Society, where they will undergo forensic examinations to determine their medical needs and the level of care they require.
Officials cite concerns over animal conditions
Glandt said many of the animals appeared to be in poor condition, with some suffering from malnutrition and requiring immediate medical attention. He added that others appeared to be doing relatively well when they were evaluated at the scene.
“These animals don’t deserve to be kept in those kinds of conditions,” he told WOWT.
Investigators said the property’s conditions were not suitable for the animals living there. Melissa Dalzell, who previously lived at the property and left in May, told local TV station KMTV that she contacted authorities after becoming concerned about the animals.
Dalzell said her priority was making sure the animals received help.
“That’s all that matters to me, is that the animals got saved,” she told KMTV.
Zebra requires special permit to own in Nebraska
Among the rescued animals was a zebra, an animal officials said requires specialized care and a permit under Nebraska law.
“Wild animals like zebras are biologically unpredictable and can be dangerous,” Glandt told WOWT. “They differ greatly from domesticated animals.”
Nebraska regulations require permits for the possession, transportation and importation of certain exotic animals. Glandt said investigators did not find evidence that the required permits for the zebra were obtained.
The Nebraska Humane Society has contacted Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium about developing a care plan for the zebra, WOWT reported.
Glandt said keeping exotic animals can raise safety concerns because they have different needs compared to domesticated animals and require trained handlers.
Charges expected as animals remain in NHS care
Glandt told WOWT misdemeanor charges are expected to be pursued against those responsible for the animals. The animals’ current conditions and the next steps in the authorities’ investigation are unclear. USA TODAY contacted the Nebraska Humane Society on July 10 for additional information.
The Nebraska Humane Society said in its Facebook post that the animals will remain in its care while legal proceedings move forward. Some animals may be transferred to specialized facilities depending on their medical and behavioral needs, the post continues.
According to Glandt, the goal now is to provide the animals with proper treatment and determine the best long-term placement options.
Reporter Anthony Thompson can be reached at ajthompson@usatodayco.com, or on X @athompsonUSAT
