A beloved pet squirrel named Peanut or P’Nut, with over 500,000 followers on Instagram, has been taken away by state officials and may be euthanized according to its owner. Peanut is a mascot of P’Nut’s Freedom Farm, a 501c3 animal rescue based in New York state, and has been at the center of owner Mark Longo’s world for the past seven years. Peanut was found by Longo as a five-week-old baby after his mother was hit by a car and was then nursed back to health. Peanut has been known for charming the internet with videos of his domestic life, silly antics, and enjoying meals with Longo.
Due to multiple reports from the public regarding the potentially unsafe housing of wildlife, including concerns about rabies and the illegal keeping of wildlife as pets, the New York Department of Conservation (DEC) conducted an investigation. The investigation is ongoing, and additional information will be provided as it becomes available. Longo has expressed shock and disbelief at the situation, as he and his wife were treated like criminals while their home was raided by multiple officers, looking for a squirrel and a raccoon. Longo has raised concerns about the treatment they received during the ordeal, which included restrictions on feeding their neglected rescue horses.
Peanut and his family recently moved to New York with the intention of starting a nonprofit animal rescue in Peanut’s name. Peanut’s Freedom Farm has rescued over 350 animals, and donations are now being accepted on GoFundMe to support the organization. A petition on Change.org in support of Peanut’s safe return home has garnered nearly 20,000 signatures. It is illegal in New York to own a wild animal without a license, and it remains unclear whether Peanut has been euthanized at this time.
Despite the efforts of Peanut’s family and supporters, the situation remains uncertain, with Longo expressing a desire for answers regarding why the DEC officers conducted such an intense search of their home. The family is still awaiting information on Peanut’s status, as they were not informed of whether he had been euthanized as of October 31. This heartbreaking turn of events has left the online community that adores Peanut in shock and disbelief, with many hoping for a positive outcome for the beloved squirrel and his family.
The loving relationship between Peanut and Longo has touched the hearts of many on social media, who have followed their journey over the years. Peanut’s antics and charming demeanor have earned him a devoted following, and the potential risk of euthanasia has sparked outrage among his supporters. Longo has emphasized the impact Peanut has had on his life and the lives of others, as well as the important role Peanut plays in the operation of the animal rescue. The uncertainty surrounding Peanut’s fate has left many concerned for his well-being and eager for a resolution to the situation.
As the investigation into Peanut’s situation continues, questions remain about the motivations behind the DEC’s actions and the treatment of Peanut’s family during the search of their home. Longo has questioned the necessity of such an intense response, given that they were searching for two harmless animals. The community rallying around Peanut and his family has called for transparency and compassion in handling the situation, emphasizing the need for Peanut’s safe return home. Despite the challenges they face, Longo and his supporters remain hopeful for a positive resolution that will reunite Peanut with his family at P’Nut’s Freedom Farm.
