Social Media Erupts After Beloved Rescue Squirrel Peanut Is Seized And Euthanized By NY State Officials
In a devastating turn of events, Peanut the Squirrel, a beloved social media sensation with over half a million followers, was euthanized by New York state authorities after being seized from his owner's home. The incident has sparked global outrage and raised questions about the actions of tax-funded government agencies.
Mark Longo rescued Peanut seven years ago after witnessing the young squirrel's mother being struck by a car. Unable to survive on his own, the squirrel was nursed back to health by Longo, leading to a unique and affectionate bond. Their relationship blossomed into a social media phenomenon, with Peanut's playful antics and endearing personality captivating audiences worldwide.
This online presence not only brought joy to many but also supported Longo's animal sanctuary, P'Nut's Freedom Farm, which cares for numerous rescued animals.
But on October 30, 2024, officers from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) arrived at Longo's home in Pine City, New York, and seized Peanut, along with a raccoon named Fred. The DEC cited concerns about potential rabies exposure and the legality of keeping wildlife as pets. Tragically, both animals were euthanized to test for rabies after an investigator was bitten during the seizure.
“Officers raided my house as if I was a drug dealer. I was sat outside my house for five hours. I had to get a police escort to my bathroom," shared Longo online. “I wasn't even allowed to feed my rescue horses breakfast or lunch. I was sit, sat there like a criminal after they interrogated my wife to check out her immigration status. Then proceeded to ask me if I had cameras in my house. Then proceeded to go through every cabinet, nook and cranny of my house for a squirrel and raccoon. They got a search warrant for departments, and a judge signed off on a search warrant for a squirrel in a raccoon. And then they took them and k*lled them.”
Fred, a raccoon also residing with Mark Longo, was seized alongside Peanut by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) on October 30, 2024. Both animals were euthanized to test for rabies after an investigator was bitten during the seizure.
The DEC's actions have been met with harsh criticism. Many argue that the agency's decision to euthanize Peanut was disproportionate, especially considering the squirrel's long-standing domestication and the absence of any prior incidents. The use of taxpayer funds to raid a private residence and euthanize cherished pets also raises ethical and practical concerns about resource allocation and the priorities of state agencies.
Reports indicate that the DEC acted upon multiple anonymous complaints regarding the housing of wildlife. The complaints led to the loss of a harmless animal and inflicted emotional trauma on its owner. While laws exist to protect both animals and the public, their application should consider individual circumstances and aim to preserve life whenever possible.
Mark Longo has expressed profound shock and disbelief over the seizure and euthanization of his pets. He has indicated that he is contemplating his next steps to address the situation, though he has not specified whether this will involve legal action against the DEC.
The social media response to Peanut’s tragic end has been overwhelming. Across platforms, thousands of followers shared their sadness, anger, and disbelief, with many expressing how much joy Peanut brought into their daily lives.
While some fans shared heartfelt messages, others turned to humor as a way to cope with the loss. Memes and tributes are everywhere with followers using humor as a way to both honor Peanut's playful personality. These posts have drawn attention to the positive influence Peanut had online.
Longo himself shared a touching tribute to both Peanut and Fred on Instagram.
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