Petition to return the beloved squirrel gains traction as concerns about animal welfare and legal issues arise.
Squirrel Celebrity Peanut Seized by New York Authorities Amid Housing Concerns
Squirrel Celebrity Peanut Seized by New York Authorities Amid Housing Concerns
Mark Longo fights back for custody of his pet squirrel Peanut, famous on Instagram with half a million followers, after a raid by the DEC.
In a shocking turn of events, Peanut the squirrel, an internet sensation with over 500,000 Instagram followers, was seized by New York state authorities during a raid on the home of his caretaker, Mark Longo. The Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) executed the raid due to multiple reports alleging unsafe housing conditions and illegal possession of wildlife, prompting Longo to express his outrage on social media.
Longo, who adopted Peanut seven years ago after rescuing him from a tragic incident involving his mother, has taken to Instagram to plea for the return of his pet, decrying those who reported him as deserving a "special place in hell." The DEC's statement indicated they launched an investigation into the allegations of unsafe housing for the animals, which included a raccoon named Fred that Longo had recently acquired.
As the details surrounding Peanut’s current situation remain unclear, a petition to return the furry internet star has surpassed 20,000 signatures, showing strong public support for Longo’s case. In his posts, he has shared that he is also seeking donations to fund legal fees in his fight against the DEC. Peanut's popular Instagram account features videos highlighting the squirrel’s playful antics with Longo, from wearing hats to indulging in waffle treats.
The ongoing saga has raised significant attention regarding the regulation of wildlife as pets and the responsibilities of pet owners, drawing a larger conversation about animal welfare in the United States and the intersection of internet fame and pet ownership.
Longo, who adopted Peanut seven years ago after rescuing him from a tragic incident involving his mother, has taken to Instagram to plea for the return of his pet, decrying those who reported him as deserving a "special place in hell." The DEC's statement indicated they launched an investigation into the allegations of unsafe housing for the animals, which included a raccoon named Fred that Longo had recently acquired.
As the details surrounding Peanut’s current situation remain unclear, a petition to return the furry internet star has surpassed 20,000 signatures, showing strong public support for Longo’s case. In his posts, he has shared that he is also seeking donations to fund legal fees in his fight against the DEC. Peanut's popular Instagram account features videos highlighting the squirrel’s playful antics with Longo, from wearing hats to indulging in waffle treats.
The ongoing saga has raised significant attention regarding the regulation of wildlife as pets and the responsibilities of pet owners, drawing a larger conversation about animal welfare in the United States and the intersection of internet fame and pet ownership.
