OMAHA, Neb. (KMTV) — Scatter Joy Acres now has all of their animals back.
Petting zoo owner Joy Bartling said the Nebraska Humane Society showed up around 11:00 a.m. Friday with their porcupine, coatimundi and seven Patagonian cavies.
“Not only am I relieved,” Bartling said. “Most of the volunteers and staff and clients that we’ve worked with are also relieved that they are back home and in their enclosures where they are supposed to be.”
The Omaha City Prosecutor's office confirms Scatter Joy Acres has the proper licenses from USDA and Nebraska Games and Parks to operate as a zoo so the animals could be returned; all citations have been dropped.
“They were ecstatic and running and kicking and jumping and rolling in the dirt. And they were happy to be home,” Bartling said.
Some of the porcupine, Aquilla’s, biggest fans have already been by to see her including 4-year-old Connor who has been visiting Aquilla for about a year for animal therapy.
“When Connor goes to see Aquilla it's different than anything I’ve ever seen,” Jennifer Henning, Connor’s mom, said. “Connor is very skittish and afraid of other animals, cats and dogs move too fast. Aquilla, this little porcupine, is the most gentile little thing.”
Bartling said the animals all look wonderful and they'll continue business as usual at Scatter Joy Acres.
Scatter Joy Acres is open Tuesday, Thursday , Friday, Saturday 10AM - 3PM and Sunday Noon - 3PM.
