Peanut the Squirrel, known for his social media fame as “P’Nut”, was euthanized by the New York Department of Environmental Conservation along with Fred the raccoon. The decision to put the animals down was made in order to test them for rabies. The seven-year-old gray rescue squirrel was a beloved pet of his guardian, Mark Longo, who took to Instagram to share a video memorializing Peanut. Longo expressed his deep sadness at the loss of his furry friend, thanking him for bringing joy into their lives for seven years.
Longo also reached out to fans for financial support for a legal battle and for his nonprofit organization, P’Nut’s Freedom Farm. The DEC claimed that Peanut bit one of the investigators during his confiscation from Longo’s Elmira home, leading to the decision to euthanize both Peanut and Fred to test for rabies. The agency urged anyone who had contact with the animals to consult their physician. Peanut was originally rescued by Longo after witnessing the squirrel’s mother being hit by a car, inspiring him to start an animal sanctuary called “P’Nut’s Freedom Farm” in upstate New York.
Following the seizure of Peanut and Fred by the DEC due to anonymous complaints about wild animals in Longo’s home, Longo expressed his frustration on social media. He blamed the internet for taking away his beloved pet, expressing his anger towards those who reported the animals to the DEC. Longo’s emotional response to the loss of Peanut showcased the impact the squirrel had on his life and the deep connection he felt towards his pet. The DEC responded to the situation by stating that they were acting on complaints regarding a potential rabies vector species, which was Fred the raccoon in this case.
The loss of Peanut saddened his fans and followers on social media, who had grown attached to the adorable squirrel through Longo’s posts and videos. The decision to euthanize Peanut and Fred sparked controversy and debate among animal lovers and advocates, who questioned the necessity of the action taken by the DEC. Longo’s plea for financial support for his legal battle and for his animal sanctuary highlighted the impact of Peanut’s death on his nonprofit organization, showcasing the importance of the squirrel in Longo’s work and life.
Despite the tragic loss of Peanut, Longo continues to honor his memory through his work at P’Nut’s Freedom Farm and his efforts to raise awareness about animal welfare. The outpouring of support and condolences from fans of Peanut on social media reflects the impact that the squirrel had on their lives as well. While Peanut may no longer be physically present, his memory lives on through the stories, videos, and photos shared by Longo and his followers. The legacy of Peanut the Squirrel continues to inspire compassion and awareness for other animals in need.
