Henderson Approves Permit for Local Petting Zoo's Camels

The Henderson Planning Commission voted 7-0 to grant a conditional use permit for two camels owned by Petting Zoo 2U.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 3:04am

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A bold, colorful silkscreen-style illustration featuring a repeating grid of stylized camel figurines in neon shades of pink, blue, and yellow, capturing the playful and celebratory spirit of the petting zoo's victory.The vibrant celebration of Petting Zoo 2U's successful fight to keep its beloved camels in Henderson reflects the community's deep appreciation for local animal attractions.Las Vegas Today

The Henderson Planning Commission has approved a conditional use permit for two camels owned by the local petting zoo business Petting Zoo 2U. The camels, named Moses and Abraham, have been used for various events and activities in the Las Vegas area. The decision came after the planning commission heard arguments from around 25 neighbors in support of the permit, and a petition supporting the camels' residency in Henderson garnered over 40,000 signatures from rural advocates around the world.

Why it matters

The approval of the conditional use permit allows Petting Zoo 2U to legally keep the camels in Henderson, resolving a previous issue with the Henderson Animal Control over possessing 'exotic' animals. The decision highlights the community support for the petting zoo and the value residents place on having animals as part of their lives.

The details

In 2024, Petting Zoo 2U was the target of scrutiny from Henderson Animal Control for possessing the two camels, Moses and Abraham. However, the planning commission has now voted 7-0 to grant a conditional use permit for the petting zoo to legally keep the camels. The camels have been used for photoshoots, school trips, and church nativity scenes in the Las Vegas and Henderson areas.

  • In 2024, Henderson Animal Control scrutinized Petting Zoo 2U for possessing the camels.
  • On April 17, 2026, the Henderson Planning Commission voted 7-0 to approve the conditional use permit for the camels.

The players

Petting Zoo 2U

A local petting zoo business that owns the two camels, Moses and Abraham.

Nancy Rouas

The owner of Petting Zoo 2U.

Henderson Planning Commission

The local government body that voted 7-0 to approve the conditional use permit for the camels.

Eric Humes

A planning commissioner who expressed support for the petting zoo and the value of having animals in the community.

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What they’re saying

“I also grew up with goats myself in the northwest part of town. I know the value of having animals in your life and the joy and benefits. So, Nancy, I couldn't imagine not having your zoo in our life.”

— Eric Humes, Planning Commissioner

What’s next

The final approval for the conditional use permit is expected to appear at the next Henderson City Council meeting agenda.

The takeaway

This decision highlights the strong community support for Petting Zoo 2U and the value that Henderson residents place on having animals as part of their lives. It resolves a previous issue with the local animal control and allows the petting zoo to legally continue operating with its two camels, Moses and Abraham.