Peanut the Squirrel Seized and Euthanized, Owner Pursues Legal Battle

justice_for_Peanut

In a case that has sparked public outcry and legal debate, New York authorities recently seized and euthanized Peanut, a beloved pet squirrel with a massive social media following. Peanut’s owner, Mark Longo, who shared the squirrel’s life online, is preparing for legal action against the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), claiming the seizure and euthanization were unjust and avoidable.

Peanut’s story captured the hearts of many over his seven years with Longo, who rescued the orphaned squirrel as a baby after its mother was killed in a car accident. Through daily posts showcasing Peanut’s personality, Longo grew Peanut’s online presence to over 500,000 Instagram followers, transforming the squirrel into a social media sensation. However, Peanut’s life took a devastating turn in October 2024 when DEC officers removed him and a raccoon, citing complaints about “unlawfully possessed” animals and potential rabies concerns.

The DEC has maintained that their actions were necessary under New York’s wildlife protection laws, which prohibit individuals from keeping wild animals like squirrels as pets without specific permits. Authorities explained that animals like Peanut pose risks as rabies vector species, justifying their removal. This explanation, however, did little to pacify Longo and Peanut’s fanbase, who have rallied in support of changing the state’s strict wildlife laws. Longo asserts that Peanut posed no public threat and was properly cared for, alleging that the DEC’s approach was heavy-handed and traumatizing.

In response, Longo has launched a widely supported petition demanding justice for Peanut and calling for clearer and fairer regulations concerning pet wildlife. He believes that state wildlife laws should include compassionate, case-by-case evaluations, especially for animals with no prior incidents. Peanut’s case is now galvanizing animal rights advocates and pet owners across the country, pushing for change in the laws surrounding pet ownership of non-traditional animals.

As Longo prepares his legal case, Peanut’s story highlights a growing debate on pet ownership laws for wildlife and the state’s role in managing such cases. With a groundswell of support behind him, Longo aims to honor Peanut’s memory by pursuing legal change, seeking to balance public safety concerns with humane treatment and animal rights. This ongoing battle could set a precedent for wildlife ownership laws and their enforcement, sparking conversations nationwide about what it means to protect – and respect – our furry companions.

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