Outrage Erupts Over Euthanization of Beloved Squirrel in New York

The death of Peanut, a pet squirrel seized by state authorities, raises questions about wildlife regulations and sparks public backlash.

Mark Longo, Peanut's caretaker, had been caring for the squirrel for seven years after rescuing it as an orphaned baby.
New York's Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) confiscated Peanut and a raccoon named Fred, citing illegal wildlife possession and rabies concerns.
Both animals were euthanized to test for rabies, a procedure requiring brain tissue, leading to widespread criticism of the DEC's actions.
Longo plans to sue the DEC for what he describes as government overreach and is seeking justice for the animals' deaths.
The incident has ignited a national debate on social media about the handling of wildlife, with calls for more compassionate approaches.