Oh, nuts.
A rescued pet squirrel that sat atop a social media and philanthropic empire has been confiscated by the state of New York, and its owner says he plans to euthanize it, according to an Instagram post.
Peanut the squirrel was rescued seven years ago after his mother was killed by a car. Instagram
According to the post, Peanut the Squirrel was removed from his home in Elmira, New York, on Wednesday by Department of Environmental Protection officials who issued a warrant to Peanut’s guardians after receiving a complaint that he was in “illegal possession” of the animal. It is said that
The caption for the account Peanut_The_Squirrel12 reads, “Internet, you win.” “Because of your selfishness, one of the most wonderful animals was taken away from me. To the group that called DEC, there is a special place in hell for you.”
A DEC spokesperson confirmed to the Post that officers removed Peanut the squirrel and the pet raccoon.
Peanut is a social media star with over 1 million followers worldwide.
platform. Instagram
In a social media post, the squirrel’s owner, Mark Longo, said he was “shocked” and “in disbelief” that the DEC was allegedly attempting to euthanize his pet squirrel and friend.
The DEC said it worked with the Chemung County Health Department to seize the animals “due to the presence of a rabies vector (raccoon) in the home.”
State officials have not commented on whether the animals will be euthanized.
According to his social media account, Longo adopted Peanut seven years ago when he was still immature after witnessing his mother being hit by a car.
Peanuts has 532,000 followers on Instagram, over 423,000 followers on Facebook, and over 2 million views on TikTok.
Peanut eating waffles, one of his favorite snacks;
According to social media. Instagram
Originally from Connecticut, Longo moved to Elmira in 2023 to start an animal sanctuary called P’Nut’s Freedom Farm, a 501.C.3 nonprofit organization.
“Last year, we moved to New York with the idea of starting a non-profit animal rescue under the PNUT name. (Peanut Freedom Farm) will forever live in PNUT’s memory.” Longo wrote in a post announcing Peanut’s attack.
“With over 350 rescues, we have relied heavily on donations from PNUT and its internet family to help more animals. How can we continue to raise funds for this nonprofit organization? I don’t even know if I’m going.”
P’Nut’s Freedom Farm is an organization of veterinarians and caregivers dedicated to rescuing animals from abuse and dire situations, according to the group’s website.
After announcing the peanut hunt, Longo posted several Department of Environmental Protection phone numbers on his feed, encouraging his supporters to call them to protest the government’s actions.
Peanut protector Mark Longo founded Peanut Freedom Farm.
An organization dedicated to rescuing abused, abandoned, and neglected people.
animal. Instagram
There is also a petition calling for Peanut to be returned to his rightful home.
This isn’t the first time DEC has had public relations troubles over the confiscation of beloved pets.
Earlier this year, the department seized a 750-pound alligator from a home in Hamburg, New York, that had a large room and swimming pool for the reptile’s comfort.
Albert the alligator lived in the home for 34 years and was raised by his guardian Tony Cavallaro from the time he was a hatchling. He is currently suing the police department to regain custody of his longtime friend.
