Mark and Daniela Longo, caretakers of the internet-famous Peanut the squirrel, are speaking out after the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and Chemung County Department of Health announced that both Peanut and Fred the raccoon were euthanized for rabies testing. The animals were seized on Wednesday morning after reports claimed their housing might be unsafe.
Initially, after Peanut and Fred were taken, Mark Longo expressed hope that Peanut would return. But on Friday, the Longos learned of the animals’ fate through a news outlet rather than the DEC. Mark shared his feelings of shock and frustration, stating, “I don’t have feelings. I am utterly shocked. I’m disgusted.”
They took to Instagram to inform their fans and ask for support in their ongoing legal efforts. Mark urged, “Please continue to help us raise money for the ongoing legal battles and for our nonprofit so we can help keep Peanut’s name alive.” A GoFundMe campaign was launched to cover legal fees and repair damages to the sanctuary incurred during the search.
At P’Nut’s Freedom Farm and Animal Sanctuary, the Longos shared more about their ordeal. Mark strongly denied the DEC’s claim that Peanut had bitten anyone, adding, “I can 100% say… he has never harmed a single person.” Mark also questioned the DEC’s justification for the seizure: “Seven years of Peanut’s life was okay… but out of anonymous complaints from people who don’t live in this state, this investigation happened.” Mark feels that if officials had known Peanut, they’d understand why he was kept indoors and couldn’t be released into the wild.
Losing Peanut has left the Longos uncertain about the sanctuary’s future. With Peanut’s social media presence, donations flowed in, enabling them to care for rescued animals. Now, Daniela says, “You destroyed a family and an organization helping other animals.”
The community’s support has been a comfort, with people from all over, including local supporters and fans worldwide, reaching out. Congressman Nick Langworthy publicly criticized the DEC’s actions, demanding answers and questioning the state’s priorities in light of recent events.
A public petition, initially aimed at bringing Peanut home, has been updated to call for justice for Peanut and reforms within the DEC. With over 32,000 signatures, the Longos see it as proof that Peanut’s impact went beyond their sanctuary.
As Daniela expressed, “He brought so much joy… You had so many people who loved this, and you took them away for what?”
READ ALSO NOW: