Strong controversy after the sacrifice of an influencer squirrel confiscated by authorities

The sacrifice of a squirrel known as Peanut, famous on social networks for its charming videos and tricks, has sparked controversy in New York. The situation began when Mark Longo, owner of Peanut and defender of wildlife, denounced the confiscation and sacrifice of his pet by the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and the Chemung County Health Department.

The agencies argued that the measure was necessary after receiving complaints of illegal possession of animals and due to the bite of an official by the squirrel, which led to the rabies test. Fred, a raccoon rescued by Longo, was also confiscated and sacrificed in the operation.

Longo expressed her outrage on social media, saying authorities did not follow a quarantine protocol and proceeded to euthanize the animals directly. “Honestly, this still seems surreal to me,” said Longo, who said she did not witness Peanut bite anyone during the raid at her home in Pine City.

Peanut had become a symbol of cuteness and animal protection, gaining thousands of followers on TikTok and Instagram thanks to her appearances in little hats and her funny interactions with Longo, who rescued the squirrel after being orphaned by the death of her mother in New York seven years ago. Fred, meanwhile, was rescued by Longo after being left injured on her doorstep and was in the process of recovering to be released.

The case has generated reactions from public figures, including state legislator Jake Blumencranz, who proposed the “Peanut Animal Protection Act.” The legislation seeks to establish a 72-hour waiting period before agencies can euthanize confiscated animals, as well as grant additional protections to animal sanctuaries.

“What happened to Peanut was a tragedy, and this event must be investigated,” Blumencranz said in a social media post, adding pressure to review the handling of these cases and better protect rescued animals.