In a heartbreaking twist, Peanut the Squirrel, a popular Instagram pet, was euthanised by New York State officials, leading to public outcry. Peanut, along with Fred the Raccoon, was seized by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) on October 30 and euthanised two days later due to concerns about rabies. The decision has left Peanut's owner, Mark Longo, devastated, sparking discussions on New York's approach to public safety—especially given rising crime and gang-related violence on the city's streets.
Peanut's owner, who had cared for him for seven years, expressed his sorrow: "Their lives were precious, and we refuse to accept this loss in silence." Peanut, who gained over 536,000 followers on Instagram, was adored by animal lovers online. Longo claimed he was working on legally certifying Peanut as an "education animal" before the DEC's intervention. Despite public support, the state proceeded with euthanisation, citing the potential rabies risk after a biting incident, according to People.
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