6 P.M. UPDATE:
The Nebraska Humane Society spoke with KMTV and gave an update on the pressure the NHS is feeling after rescuing 79 animals from abuse in Elkorn.
The NHS is now caring for 79 animals after rescuing them from a property in Elkhorn on Thursday — an increase from the 60 animals the organization first reported.
The NHS says the large intake is putting a strain on staff and space.
"Taking in 79 animals can cause quite the strain on staff," Steven Elonich, NHS Executive Vice President of PR and Marketing, said.
Medical staff are working through the weekend to evaluate the animals.
"Our medical staff is working through the weekend doing forensic exams to get these animals the immediate attention they need," Elonich said.
Capacity is also a concern for the organization.
"When those emergencies happen, suddenly we are hitting 100% capacity — even higher at times," Elonich said.
The NHS says the best way for people to help is to adopt or foster an animal.
"That can really help us ease the burden on the animal welfare staff (and) the kennel capacity," Elonich said.
Neighbor Nicole Prchal is already doing her part.
She fostered a dog, a two-year-old boxer mix named Nezuko, from the NHS following the rescue.
Prchal said the experience has been rewarding.
"She is such a big beautiful dog, and that is why I do it," Prchal said.
Despite the challenges, Elonich said the staff remains motivated.
"Everyone here is passionate about the mission — and this is the mission — to help animals," Elonich said.
KMTV reached out to the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium to find out how they are helping a zebra that was among the rescued animals.
As of now, there are no plans to transfer the zebra from the NHS to the zoo. However, the zoo is providing nutritional and medical advice to the NHS while the zebra remains in their custody.
ORGINAL STORY:
OMAHA, Neb. (KMTV) – Steve Glandt, executive vice president of field operations for the Nebraska Humane Society, said that Nicholas Sakis was cited for eight counts of animal cruelty and two counts of sanitary conditions of stalls, stables and yards.
Glandt said that Sakis was cited for the eight counts based on species, not the number of animals. A court date has been set for Sept. 8 at 1:30 p.m.
Glandt said that Sakis was cited by NHS last week for four counts for animal cruelty based on three dogs and one cat under Sakis' care. A court date has been set for Sept. 1 at 1:30 p.m.
As 3 News Now first reported on Thursday, dozens of animals were confiscated by the Nebraska Humane Society from Sakis' home.
