The Heartbreaking Story of Peanut the Squirrel: From Internet Star to Euthanized
Peanut the Squirrel, a beloved internet sensation with over 540,000 Instagram followers, was euthanized by New York state authorities amid a controversy that has sparked widespread outrage and debate. The decision to euthanize Peanut, along with a raccoon named Fred, was made by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) after concerns arose regarding potential rabies exposure. This incident has not only drawn attention to animal welfare issues but has also become a flashpoint in the current political climate ahead of the 2024 U.S. elections.
Background on Peanut
Peanut’s story began seven years ago when Mark Longo rescued him after witnessing his mother being struck by a vehicle in New York City. Longo took Peanut in, caring for him and eventually attempting to reintroduce him to the wild. However, Peanut struggled to survive independently and remained with Longo, who documented their life together on social media. Peanut became famous for his charming antics, including nibbling on waffles and wearing adorable costumes, which endeared him to fans worldwide.
The Euthanasia Incident
The euthanasia of Peanut occurred after several anonymous complaints were made to the DEC about the illegal keeping of wildlife as pets and concerns over rabies. On October 30, officials seized both Peanut and Fred from Longo’s home in Pine City, citing public health risks. During the investigation, an official was reportedly bitten by Peanut, leading to the decision to euthanize both animals for rabies testing. The DEC stated that it was necessary to ensure public safety and prevent potential rabies transmission.
Public Outcry
Longo expressed profound grief and anger over the loss of Peanut, accusing those who reported him of selfishness. He took to social media to voice his heartbreak, stating, “Internet, you WON. You took one of the most amazing animals away from me”. This sentiment resonated with many supporters online who began rallying for “justice for Peanut,” condemning the actions of the DEC as excessive and unnecessary.
The outrage surrounding Peanut’s death has been amplified by notable figures such as Elon Musk and Donald Trump supporters. Musk criticized government intervention in animal ownership, suggesting that it represents an overreach of authority. He tweeted about the incident, stating that “the government should leave the people and their animals alone”. This commentary has fueled discussions about wildlife laws and the ethical implications of keeping wild animals as pets.
Legal and Ethical Implications
The incident raises important questions regarding wildlife management and pet ownership laws in New York. The DEC emphasizes that it is illegal to keep young wildlife as pets due to potential health risks associated with rabies and other diseases carried by wild animals. They argue that keeping such animals can lead to abnormal attachments that make reintroduction into the wild difficult. Critics argue that while public health is crucial, there should be more humane alternatives than euthanasia for testing rabies.
Conclusion
Peanut’s tragic end highlights a complex intersection of animal rights, public health policy, and social media influence. As debates continue over the legality and ethics of keeping wild animals as pets, many are left mourning the loss of a beloved creature who brought joy to countless individuals online. Longo has vowed to continue fighting for animal rights and support for his sanctuary, hoping to honor Peanut’s legacy through advocacy and education. The outcry following this incident serves as a reminder of how deeply intertwined our lives can become with those of our animal companions and the responsibilities that come with caring for them.
