Mark Longo, Peanut's caregiver, is advocating for the return of the social media sensation after it was taken during a raid linked to concerns about safety and legality in its housing.
Instagram Star Squirrel Peanut's Custody Sparks Outrage and Legal Battle
Instagram Star Squirrel Peanut's Custody Sparks Outrage and Legal Battle
A squirrel named Peanut, who gained fame on Instagram, emerged at the center of a legal dispute between its caretaker and New York authorities.
Peanut the squirrel, with an impressive following of 500,000 on Instagram, is not only a beloved pet but also a well-known internet personality. Longo first rescued Peanut seven years ago and has since documented their adventures online, showcasing his playful antics and charming personality. However, following complaints regarding potentially unsafe living conditions, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) seized Peanut and a raccoon named Fred from Longo's home.
Longo publicly expressed his outrage over the seizure, suggesting that those who reported him held malicious intentions. He announced the situation to his followers via Instagram, where he also initiated a petition that accumulated over 20,000 signatures. The DEC reported that their actions were based on multiple complaints regarding potential risks linked to keeping wildlife that could carry diseases, specifically rabies.
The condition of Peanut post-seizure remains uncertain, and the DEC has not released further information on its welfare. The organization is currently conducting an investigation into the situation. Meanwhile, Longo is reportedly gathering funds for legal expenses in his fight to have Peanut returned. His social media account features an array of videos where Peanut is seen taking part in entertaining skits and engaging lovingly with Longo, leading many fans to share their support for the cause online.
The case raises broader questions about the legality and ethics of keeping wild animals as pets, particularly in urban environments. While some advocate for animal welfare and public safety, others question the necessity of removing beloved pets from their homes, suggesting a need for clearer guidelines surrounding the custody of exotic and wild animals.
Longo publicly expressed his outrage over the seizure, suggesting that those who reported him held malicious intentions. He announced the situation to his followers via Instagram, where he also initiated a petition that accumulated over 20,000 signatures. The DEC reported that their actions were based on multiple complaints regarding potential risks linked to keeping wildlife that could carry diseases, specifically rabies.
The condition of Peanut post-seizure remains uncertain, and the DEC has not released further information on its welfare. The organization is currently conducting an investigation into the situation. Meanwhile, Longo is reportedly gathering funds for legal expenses in his fight to have Peanut returned. His social media account features an array of videos where Peanut is seen taking part in entertaining skits and engaging lovingly with Longo, leading many fans to share their support for the cause online.
The case raises broader questions about the legality and ethics of keeping wild animals as pets, particularly in urban environments. While some advocate for animal welfare and public safety, others question the necessity of removing beloved pets from their homes, suggesting a need for clearer guidelines surrounding the custody of exotic and wild animals.
