New York Squirrel Euthanized by State Officials, Owner Demands Answers

A recent pre-election news story has captured the attention of New Yorkers, but it’s not about a politician – it’s about a beloved pet squirrel named Peanut. Peanut, who gained fame online, was recently euthanized by New York State Department of Environmental Protection officials due to a “rabies test,” leaving the squirrel’s owner, Mark Longo, grief-stricken and seeking answers from the government.

According to Longo, excessive force was used on his pet squirrel earlier this week. However, state wildlife officials claim that it is illegal to own wild animals, including squirrels. Longo’s “Peanuts” videos have been popular on the internet for the past seven years, and he was devastated by the squirrel’s killing, tearfully stating in a video: “Peanuts are the best thing that ever happened to us.”

The New York State Department of Environmental Protection seized the squirrel and Longo’s other pet raccoon, “Fred,” on Wednesday, October 30. The Department of Environmental Protection stated that the animals were seized due to the possibility of human exposure to rabies, and a person involved in the investigation was bitten by a squirrel. As a result, both animals were euthanized to be tested for rabies.

Under state law, the only legal way to care for a squirrel is to become a licensed wildlife rehabilitator, a process that can take several months. To legally raise and domesticate a wild animal, the animal must also be registered as an educational animal. Longo claims he was in the process of applying for a license, and after Peanut’s death, he called on fans to raise funds to help him “seek justice” for Peanut’s death.

The incident has sparked a debate about animal ownership and the laws surrounding it. While some argue that owning wild animals can be dangerous, others believe that with proper care and licensing, it can be a rewarding experience. As the investigation continues, Longo and his supporters are left to mourn the loss of a beloved pet and advocate for changes in the laws governing animal ownership.