Peanut the Squirrel, Internet Sensation, Euthanized Due to Rabies Concerns
The Department of Environmental Conservation in New York has confirmed that Peanut the Squirrel, a beloved seven-year-old rescue squirrel known for its social media presence, has been euthanized after being seized by the state earlier this week.
Commonly referred to as “P’Nut” on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok, Peanut was put to death, along with Fred the raccoon, in order to test for the presence of rabies, as per a statement from the agency obtained by WETM.
Mark Longo, Peanut’s guardian, took to Instagram to share a heartfelt video memorializing his beloved pet.
Amid tears, Longo expressed, “Peanut was the best thing that ever happened to us.”
“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 wrote in a caption honoring Peanut’s memory.
Additionally, Longo requested financial assistance from fans for a legal battle and for his non-profit organization, P’Nut’s Freedom Farm.
The DEC stated that Peanut, known for his docile and friendly nature, bit one of the investigators during the confiscation process from Longo’s Elmira home on Wednesday.
To test for rabies, both Peanut and Fred were euthanized. The animals are currently being tested, and individuals who had contact with them are advised to consult a physician, as per the DEC statement.
Longo rescued Peanut after witnessing the squirrel’s mother being hit by a car. This incident inspired Longo to establish P’Nut’s Freedom Farm, an animal sanctuary and rescue operation in upstate New York.
Following multiple anonymous complaints about wild animals in Longo’s residence, Peanut and Fred were seized by the DEC.
“Well internet, you WON,” Longo expressed in a caption post-seizure. “You took one of the most amazing animals away from me because of your selfishness.”
“To the group of people who called DEC, there’s a special place in hell for you,” Longo added.
The DEC responded to complaints of a rabies vector species, particularly Fred the raccoon, being present in the home in their statement to The Post.
