The euthanization of two beloved pets, Peanut the Squirrel and Fred the Raccoon, has sparked significant backlash online, especially after the animals tested negative for rabies post-mortem. Peanut the Squirrel and Fred the raccoon, cared for by Mark Longo, were euthanized under state law, which mandates that certain wild animals cannot be kept as pets without specific permits. While authorities cited public health concerns as justification, the negative rabies results have only fueled frustration.
Peanut’s case drew widespread attention when the squirrel was seized from her owner despite efforts to prevent euthanasia. Many netizens criticized the decision, arguing that Peanut’s rabies-free status invalidated the rationale for her removal.
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On a post on X shared by FoxNews, is a thread of comments where people are sharing their unhappiness and frustration.
Come users emphasized the fact that they knew that Peanut was rabies-free. One user wrote:
"Omfg. They killed a squirrel under the pretense that it had rabies just for it to be rabies-free and nobody’s surprised"
"Of course he was rabies free. Everyone knew he was rabies free. He lived with his human for like 7 years," marked another.
Some users also expressed their frustration at the authorities. One X user wrote:
"Tragic ending for Peanut. Taken away and labeled dangerous without proof—sometimes the system just gets it wrong. Rest in peace, Peanut; you deserved better."
"Of course, this is once again government overreach", noted another.
"Rabies free. Smh killed an innocent squirrel," said a user.
One user also commented on how the complainant should be held responsible by saying:
"This is tragic. Someone should investigate the complainant, the source that initiated the series of events that brought about Peanut and Fred's demise."
Why did the authorities put down Peanut the Squirrel and Fred?
New York’s Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) seized Peanut along with a raccoon named Fred from Mark Longo’s home.
The DEC cited concerns about illegal wildlife ownership following complaints. Officials claimed Peanut the Squirrel bit a worker, leading to its euthanasia for rabies testing. Longo, who had owned Peanut for around seven years, disputed the bite claim and maintained the animal was rabies-free.
Who reported Peanut the Squirrel and Fred the Racoon?
It’s not publicly confirmed who reported Peanut the Squirrel and Fred the Raccoon to authorities.
After a false TikTok post impersonating Peanut's owner Monica Keasler claimed to reveal the informant, Keasler clarified that she hadn’t posted this accusation and urged people not to spread misinformation.
Monica Keasler also criticized the Department of Environmental Conservation DEC for their handling of the case, finding their procedures distressing and potentially insensitive.
On platforms like GoFundMe, animal lovers have shown strong support for Peanut’s former owner, raising over $90,000 in donations to help with legal fees and other expenses related to the situation.
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