Peanut the Squirrel, a cherished pet known for his internet fame, has been euthanized following his seizure by New York state authorities earlier this week, as confirmed by the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). The seven-year-old gray squirrel, affectionately called “P’Nut” on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok, was euthanized alongside Fred the raccoon to conduct rabies testing, according to a statement from the DEC obtained by WETM.
Peanut’s owner, Mark Longo, shared a heartfelt tribute to his beloved pet in an emotional video on Instagram. With tears in his eyes and his girlfriend by his side, he expressed, “Peanut was the best thing that ever happened to us.” He also posted a caption that read, “RIP MY BEST FRIEND. Thank you for the best 7 years of my life. Thank you for bringing so much joy to us and the world. I’m sorry I failed you, but thank you for everything.” Longo appealed to fans for financial assistance in his “legal battle” and support for his nonprofit, P’Nut’s Freedom Farm.
The DEC reported that Peanut, known for his gentle demeanor, bit an investigator during the seizure at Longo’s home in Elmira. The agency stated, “In addition, a person involved with the investigation was bitten by the squirrel. To test for rabies, both animals were euthanized. The animals are being tested for rabies, and anyone who has been in contact with them is strongly encouraged to consult their physician,” as stated in the DEC’s announcement.
Peanut was rescued by Longo after he witnessed the squirrel’s mother being struck by a vehicle. The resilient and lovable Peanut inspired Longo to relocate to upstate New York last year, where he established “P’Nut’s Freedom Farm,” an animal sanctuary and rescue organization.
Following the seizure of Peanut and Fred, Longo expressed his frustration on social media, stating, “Well, internet, you WON. You took one of the most amazing animals away from me because of your selfishness.” He added a scathing remark aimed at those who reported him, saying, “To the group of people who called DEC, there’s a special place in hell for you.”
In response to the situation, the DEC clarified that their actions were prompted by complaints regarding the presence of a rabies vector species in the Longo household, specifically referencing Fred the raccoon.
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