Peanut the squirrel, an internet-famous pet with over 600,000 Instagram followers, was recently euthanized by New York’s Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), sparking widespread controversy.
His owner, Mark Longo, a passionate animal advocate, had rescued Peanut years ago and made him the face of P’Nuts Freedom Farm, a sanctuary for injured animals. However, after receiving anonymous complaints, the DEC seized Peanut and another of Longo’s pets, a raccoon named Fred, citing health concerns over potential rabies exposure. Longo’s public grief and frustration have ignited a debate about the DEC’s handling of wildlife cases and the broader implications for pet ownership and public health.
Peanut the Squirrel’s Popularity
Peanut the squirrel, owned by content creator Mark Longo, captured the hearts of over 500,000 Instagram followers. Known for his playful antics and cute videos, Peanut became an internet sensation, helping to raise awareness for animal welfare through Longo’s platform. Peanut had a special story; rescued as a baby after a traumatic injury, he became part of Longo’s animal sanctuary, P’Nuts Freedom Farm, which provides a safe space for injured and abused animals.
The Incident with New York’s Department of Environmental Conservation
On October 30, New York’s Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) confiscated Peanut, along with Longo’s pet raccoon Fred. Responding to anonymous complaints, the DEC, alongside six officers, seized the animals, citing illegal ownership of wildlife that could potentially carry diseases like rabies. The DEC stressed that wild animals like Peanut are not suitable as pets and pose health risks to humans, reinforcing laws around wildlife in captivity.
Longo’s Reaction and Social Media Outcry
Longo voiced his frustration and heartbreak on Instagram, accusing those who reported Peanut of cruelty and condemning the DEC’s actions. He stated that Peanut’s life was cut short by the DEC’s rigid enforcement, which ignored pleas for compassion and sensitivity. His post resonated with fans and advocates who expressed their outrage and support for Peanut’s legacy, bringing further attention to Longo’s sanctuary and his work with vulnerable animals.
Euthanasia Decision and Public Health Concerns
Following Peanut’s seizure, the DEC and Chemung County Department of Health announced that both Peanut and Fred were euthanized after an investigation team member was reportedly bitten. To ensure public health safety, the animals were tested for rabies, prompting their immediate euthanasia as per state health protocols. The agencies urged anyone who had contact with the animals to seek medical advice, defending their actions as necessary for public health.
Controversy and Calls for Policy Change
The situation sparked a broader debate on social media and in government circles. Congressman Nick Langworthy criticized the DEC’s priorities, suggesting that their efforts would be better spent on more critical environmental needs. The story of Peanut’s untimely death has fueled discussions about the treatment of rescued wildlife, the role of animal sanctuaries, and the regulations surrounding non-traditional pets, underscoring a need for more balanced wildlife policies.
Sources:
Today News: https://www.today.com/news/peanut-the-squirrel-controversy-explained-rcna178506
Instagram: Peanut the squirrel – https://www.instagram.com/peanut_the_squirrel12/
P’Nuts Freedom Farm – https://www.pnutsfreedomfarm.com/
Instagram: Animal Rescue Mission – https://www.instagram.com/theanimalrescuemission/
New York Department of Environmental Conservation(DEC) – https://dec.ny.gov/
