New York’s Controversial Decision to Euthanize Peanut the Squirrel Despite Negative Rabies Test: Report

The Controversial Fate of Peanut, the Instagram-Famous Squirrel

Peanut, a beloved squirrel known for his social media presence, met a tragic end after being euthanized by the New York State authorities amidst public complaints. Recent revelations indicate that the decision regarding his fate was made prior to the law enforcement action taken against his owner, Mark Longo.

Heartbreaking Announcement on Social Media

On October 30, Mark Longo shared the distressing news with his 500,000 Instagram followers, expressing his shock over the incident. He described the raid conducted by the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) as overly aggressive, comparing the treatment he received to that of a drug dealer caught in a major criminal investigation.

The Circumstances of Euthanasia

Peanut and his companion, a raccoon named Fred, were put down following multiple reports to authorities concerning their living conditions, which were alleged to pose risks related to rabies and the illegal keeping of wildlife as pets. This distressing outcome highlights the complex interplay between wildlife conservation efforts and public perception of animal care.

Timeline of Events

New insights from a timeline recently uncovered by the New York Post reveal that state officials had initiated plans for the squirrels’ euthanasia even before the October raid. A request for rabies testing was submitted on October 23, indicating that preparations for their euthanization were already underway.

Health Authorities’ Justification

The New York State Department of Health emphasized the need for rabies testing in wildlife, noting that if exposure occurs, animals must be tested to prevent potential outbreaks. Unfortunately, this policy led to the tragic fate of Peanut and Fred.

Concerning Testing Procedures

Rabies testing is highly invasive; it requires decapitation for analysis of the brain tissue. This fact underscores a deeply concerning aspect of the treatment of these animals, as officials appeared to have predetermined their fate. This discovery left Mark Longo in disbelief, expressing his devastation over the premature and unnecessary deaths of his cherished pets.

A Shocking Outcome

In a poignant twist, both Peanut and Fred were ultimately confirmed to be free of rabies, as stated by Chemung County Executive Christopher Moss. This fact raises further questions about the justification for their euthanasia.

Public Outcry and Backlash

The death of Peanut triggered a wave of outrage across social media, leaving animal enthusiasts heartbroken and Mark Longo in a state of despair. In response to the public’s reaction, Longo criticized those who reported him, implying there would be moral consequences for their actions.

Community Fallout

The controversy surrounding Peanut’s death has led social media users to seek out those responsible for the original complaints. This search has even resulted in misdirected blame toward TikToker Monica Kessler, who found herself defending her innocence and extending her sympathies to Longo.

Conclusion

The tragic story of Peanut serves as a reminder of the complexities surrounding human-animal relationships, wildlife management regulations, and the significant impact public perception can have on individual lives. As discussions continue regarding animal welfare and conservation, it is crucial to consider the implications of such policies and how they resonate within our communities.

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