The Omaha Zoo Relies on Dominion Hemp for Clean and Healthy Small Animal Buildings

Beginning in 1894 as a small city attraction, Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo has evolved into one of the world’s most renowned zoological parks. Today, it spans more than 160 acres. It is celebrated for groundbreaking exhibits like the Desert Dome, Lied Jungle, and Scott Aquarium, while advancing a mission rooted in conservation, education, and animal welfare.

That mission now includes the thoughtful use of sustainable materials like Dominion Hemp animal bedding to improve the daily lives of the animals in their care.

In the zoo’s small rodent exhibits, Dominion Hemp contributes to a cleaner and healthier environment. The soft texture of the bedding cushions these active mammals as they burrow and explore. Its superior absorbency controls moisture and naturally reduces odors, making it easier for keepers to maintain the enclosures. As a result, the animals enjoy a dry, comfortable space that encourages natural behaviors and helps reduce stress.

Within the reptile house, the use of hemp bedding presents a range of distinctive benefits for species that thrive in environments with stable humidity levels and minimal dust exposure. Traditional substrates, such as wood shavings or sand, often harbor respiratory hazards or develop mold in damp conditions, posing significant health risks to reptiles. In contrast, Dominion Hemp’s bedding is engineered with low-dust and highly absorbent properties, creating an optimal habitat for reptiles to flourish.This bedding not only maintains a cleaner enclosure environment but also plays a crucial role in regulating humidity levels, which is vital for the well-being of various reptiles, from snakes to lizards. The natural, fibrous structure of the hemp bedding absorbs excess moisture while allowing for necessary air circulation, preventing the buildup of harmful bacteria and ensuring a safe living space.

By integrating Dominion Hemp into daily care, Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo reinforces its commitment to providing world-class standards of animal welfare, ensuring that even the smallest rodents and most sensitive reptiles benefit from clean, sustainable, and comfortable habitats.