Ohio judge stays order to return seized tigers, other exotic animals to Ohio sanctuary owner

TOLEDO, Ohio – A judge's ruling ordering Ohio officials to return six tigers, a lion and other animals to their owner is on hold for now.

The judge on Friday issued a stay to his order from earlier in the week.

That means Ohio officials will be able to keep the 11 exotic animals at least until a hearing on the matter next Tuesday. The state also filed a formal appeal of the judge's order Friday.

Ohio's agriculture department rounded up the animals at the sanctuary near Toledo on Wednesday after denying the owner a permit to keep them.

The state raised concerns that cages and fencing at the sanctuary could allow the animals to escape, and said the facility's conditions were inhumane.

The sanctuary owner's attorney hasn't responded to messages seeking comment.