Controversial Decision on Euthanized Squirrel Ignites Heated Policy Discussion

New York authorities euthanize beloved pet squirrel Peanut, sparking outrage and calls for reform.

At a Glance

Peanut, a famous pet squirrel with millions of social media followers, was seized by NY officials.
The squirrel and a raccoon named Fred were euthanized due to rabies concerns.
Owner Mark Longo claims the raid was excessive and is calling for changes in animal control policies.
The incident has sparked debate on wildlife rehabilitation and pet ownership laws.

Beloved Pet Squirrel Seized and Euthanized

In a shocking turn of events, New York State authorities have euthanized Peanut, a beloved pet squirrel with a massive social media following, along with a raccoon named Fred. The animals were seized from their owner, Mark Longo, by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) due to concerns about illegal wildlife possession and potential rabies exposure.

Peanut had become an internet sensation, amassing over 532,000 Instagram followers, 423,000 Facebook followers, and more than 2 million TikTok views. The squirrel’s popularity had even led Longo to establish P’Nut’s Freedom Farm, a nonprofit animal sanctuary in Elmira, NY, which relied on Peanut’s social media following for donations to support animal rescues.

The owners of #Peanut the squirrel are going nuclear on government officials in New York, accusing the state of abusing power and wasting taxpayer funds to seize and kill their pet. Watch their full interview on @TMZLive here: https://t.co/1rXzVTABx1 pic.twitter.com/rtHpBOl14x

— TMZ (@TMZ) November 1, 2024

Controversy Surrounding the Seizure

The seizure of Peanut and Fred has sparked significant controversy, with Longo claiming that officials used excessive force during the raid. According to Longo, the operation involved 10 government agents and lasted five hours, during which he felt he was treated like a “terrorist.” The incident has raised questions about the appropriate use of government resources and the handling of such cases.

“They treated me like I was a terrorist. They treated this raid as if I was a drug dealer. They ransacked my house for five hours.” – Mark Longo Source

The decision to euthanize Peanut and Fred was reportedly made after Peanut allegedly bit an official during the raid, raising rabies concerns. However, this action has been met with widespread criticism and disbelief from Peanut’s followers and animal lovers alike.

Legal and Ethical Implications

The incident has brought to light the complex legal and ethical issues surrounding wildlife rehabilitation and pet ownership. In New York, keeping wildlife as pets is illegal, and licensed wildlife rehabilitators are required to release animals back into the wild after providing temporary care. Longo claims he was in the process of obtaining the necessary permits and needed guidance from the DEC.

“We were ready to comply. We were ready to complete the paperwork. We were in the process of doing that. We needed a little bit of guidance from the DEC.” – Mark Longo

The euthanization of Peanut and Fred has unsettled the wildlife rehabilitation community, with concerns about discouraging future rehabilitators. Rachel Tindal, a wildlife expert, expressed that this case represents “every rehabber’s worst nightmare,” highlighting the emotional toll such incidents can take on those dedicated to animal welfare.

Public Outcry and Calls for Reform

The public reaction to Peanut’s euthanization has been swift and intense. A fundraiser titled “Call for Justice for Pnut and NYSDEC Reform” has already raised over $79,000, demonstrating the widespread support for Longo and the desire for change in animal control policies. Social media users, including high-profile figures like Elon Musk and elected officials, have criticized the government’s actions.

Donald jr – A baby pet squirrel? No, no, no! Justice for Peanut! No, think about it! Our government will let in 16,000 rapists, they'll let in 13,000 murderers, they'll let in 600,000 criminals across our border, but there's someone that has a pet squirrel without a permit. They… pic.twitter.com/4J00Rilylb

— 1776 (@TheWakeninq) November 4, 2024

“The state of New York broke into an innocent American’s house, stole his pet squirrel, Peanut, and then killed it. It’s a shame Peanut wasn’t an illegal alien, because he would have been welcomed in just like the illegal alien thugs who murder Americans every day!” – Republican Georgia Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene

As the controversy continues to unfold, many are calling for a reevaluation of wildlife rehabilitation practices, pet ownership laws, and the protocols followed by animal control agencies. The tragic fate of Peanut and Fred has become a rallying cry for those seeking more compassionate and nuanced approaches to human-animal interactions and wildlife management.