Internet Star Pet Squirrel Seized and Euthanized by New York Officials, Sparking Outrage Across Online Communities

Pine City, New York – A Heartbreaking Incident Involving Peanut the Squirrel

Pine City, a small town near the Pennsylvania border, has recently been shaken by a distressing event involving a cherished pet squirrel known as Peanut. Peanut was a beloved internet star, attracting over 550,000 followers on Instagram, where he showcased his playful antics and loving relationship with his owner, Mark Longo. However, the joy surrounding this little creature took a dark turn when state officials seized him.

The Seizure and Euthanasia

The New York Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) acted upon complaints that wildlife was being kept illegally. In a raid that left Longo shocked, Peanut and another animal, a raccoon named Fred, were taken from their home at P’Nuts Freedom Farm, an animal sanctuary established by Longo and his wife. Following their seizure, both animals were euthanized, sparking a wave of outrage and sadness among Peanut’s large following.

Community Outrage and Online Reaction

The news of Peanut’s death quickly garnered attention on social media, where users expressed grief and frustration. Many memes started circulating as people reacted to the heartbreaking story. For example, Elon Musk humorously remarked, “President Trump will save the squirrels,” alongside a crying emoji and a picture of Longo with his late pet. Others created more pointed commentary on the situation, expressing their anger at the DEC’s decision to euthanize the animals under the pretext of testing for rabies.

What Happened During the Raid

Longo recounted the chaotic experience of the raid during an emotional interview. “It’s not only torn my family apart, but Peanut was the cornerstone of our non-profit animal rescue,” he explained, visibly shaken. The scene resembled something out of a tense crime drama, with 10 to 12 DEC officers raiding his property as if it were a serious crime scene.

Longo detailed how he was confined to the outside of his home for hours while authorities conducted their search, preventing him from attending to his other animals. “I wasn’t even allowed to feed my rescue horses breakfast or lunch,” he stated, describing the process as invasive and unsettling. Officers reportedly went through every corner of his home and even interrogated Longo’s wife regarding her immigration status.

A Legacy of Love

Peanut’s journey began seven years ago when Longo saved him as a baby after witnessing his mother being hit by a car. The small squirrel formed a bond with Longo and his wife, ultimately becoming a beloved family member and symbol of their animal sanctuary.

In a tearful video shared on Instagram, Longo paid tribute to his pet, declaring, “Peanut was the best thing that ever happened to us.” He thanked Peanut for bringing joy into their lives and admitted feeling he failed to protect his friend. As he held a drawing of Peanut, the heartbreak was evident, not just for Longo, but also for his followers who felt the loss deeply.

The Legal Context

The DEC’s actions stem from New York’s laws requiring individuals to have a license to keep wild animals. Longo claimed he had been in the process of obtaining proper certification to keep Peanut as an educational animal. His sanctuary, which showcased various animals, was inspired by the love and bond he had with the little squirrel.

Conclusion

The devastating news of Peanut the Squirrel serves as a reminder of the complex rules surrounding animal ownership, especially when it comes to wildlife. Community reactions highlight the emotional connections people forge with animals and the profound loss felt when those bonds are severed. Longo’s story poignantly reflects how an animal can touch lives and inspire change, even in the face of heart-wrenching circumstances.