While most people know what it’s like to lose a dog or cat, what about a zebra? Owning such an exotic animal might sound like a job for a zoo, but in Tennessee, a person can own a zebra without having a permit. The image of seeing a neighbor playing with a zebra sounded more like a skit than reality. But recently, the internet went into a viral frenzy when a zebra was filmed roaming the streets of Tennessee. With experts and law enforcement searching for the animal, it seemed some fans remembered that Brantley Gilbert owned a zebra. Was the lost zebra really a member of the Gilbert family?
Having a zebra running through Tennessee is unusual for most. But for Gilbert, he received a zebra from his manager and friend Aaron Keiser. The zebra wasn’t the only gift from the manager as he also surprised the country singer with a donkey. While a zebra and a donkey seemed like the main characters of a children’s movie, the singer found humor in the situation.
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As the lost zebra gained more support on social media, Gilbert finally broke his silence, admitting that the zebra was not his. He told fans, “What’s up everybody, it’s Brantley Gilbert, here. Folks in Nashville, thank y’all so much for all of the concern and all the thoughts and prayers, but no need to be concerned anymore the zebra is home safe and sound.” He added, “You guys are awesome, no need to worry.”
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Brantley Gilbert Promises His Zebra Is Safe
Going a step further, Gilbert added a video showing the caught zebra being transported. The video then cut to his own zebra roaming through his backyard. He captioned the post, explaining how Ed the zebra was safe and sound. “Appreciate the concern about my zebra… No need to worry, he’s home safe… But glad Ed the Zebra has found his way home!”
Gaining thousands of likes, fans found the moment hilarious as local authorities chased down the animal that wandered down streets and even passed a Waffle House. Thankfully, the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office offered a video of the zebra being transported via helicopter. “Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office [RCSO] is happy to report Tango 82 aviation crews located Zebra Ed and returned him to his owner Sunday.”
With Ed going viral, the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency used the moment to highlight the dangers of owning such an animal. Again, while perfectly legal, the agency insisted, “just because it’s legal doesn’t mean it’s a good idea.”
(Photo by Debby Wong/Shutterstock)