Peanut the Squirrel’s owner blasts officials
NEW YORK – A Man Fights Back After State Seizes and Euthanizes Orphaned Squirrel
Mark Longo, a man who gained fame on social media for taking in an orphaned squirrel named Peanut, is determined to make a stand against New York state’s decision to seize and euthanize the beloved animal. In a recent phone interview, Longo expressed his resolve to hold officials accountable for their actions.
Following complaints about illegal wildlife possession, the state Department of Environmental Conservation confiscated Peanut and another rescued raccoon named Fred from Longo’s home and animal sanctuary in Pine City. Despite Longo’s efforts to obtain proper certification for Peanut as an educational animal, the authorities proceeded to euthanize both animals for rabies testing.
Longo maintains that Peanut did not display aggressive behavior during the search and questions the necessity of euthanizing the animals without proper quarantine protocols. He expressed disbelief at the government’s actions, emphasizing the bond he shared with the animals and the injustice of their sudden removal and euthanasia.
Peanut’s journey began seven years ago when Longo took in the squirrel after its mother was killed in New York City. Through heartwarming posts on Instagram, TikTok, and other platforms, Peanut captured the hearts of thousands with his adorable antics and playful demeanor. Additionally, Longo recounted how he nursed Fred the raccoon back to health and had plans to release him into the wild before the state intervened.
Despite the devastating turn of events, Longo remains determined to seek justice for Peanut and Fred. As he prepares to take further action against the state’s decision, he hopes to shed light on the importance of responsible wildlife ownership and the consequences of hasty governmental actions.
