Social Media Star Squirrel Peanut Euthanized Over Rabies Concerns, Sparking Outcry

Saturday, November 2, 2024

Peanut the squirrel, a social media sensation adored by fans, was euthanized this week after being seized by the New York State Department of Environmental Protection (NYSDEP). The popular squirrel, who was well-known for her adorable antics alongside a rescued raccoon named Fred, was put down due to concerns about rabies, NBC News reports. The decision, which has stirred public outcry, highlights ongoing tensions around the treatment of rescued wild animals and state regulations.

Peanut and Fred, both cherished by their owners and followers, were removed from their New York home under a state policy that prohibits private individuals from keeping wild animals as pets without specific licensing. According to state officials, Peanut posed a potential rabies risk, and euthanasia was deemed necessary to prevent any possible public health threat. The NYSDEP has stated that they acted in accordance with health and safety regulations and made the decision after careful assessment.

However, Peanut’s owners have expressed both sorrow and anger over the agency’s actions, claiming they were informed of Peanut’s euthanization only after it had been carried out. In a statement on social media, they alleged that the NYSDEP notified the media before contacting them, sparking outrage among Peanut’s followers. They have since called for a public investigation and are demanding accountability from state officials, accusing them of disregarding both their personal loss and the public support Peanut had garnered.

The social media fame of Peanut and Fred started in 2023 when their owners began sharing videos of their interactions with the animals, who had been rescued under reportedly unique circumstances. Peanut, in particular, captivated viewers with her lively, curious personality and became a beloved figure on various platforms. Her bond with Fred the raccoon, also a rescued animal, added to their appeal and raised awareness of rescued wildlife. Followers from around the world enjoyed the glimpses into their life and showed support for ethical animal care.

However, the NYSDEP asserts that private citizens keeping wild animals, even under rescue circumstances, is a matter of public health. Wild animals like squirrels and raccoons can be vectors for rabies, a disease that is nearly always fatal once symptoms appear. While rare, rabies can transmit to humans or other animals through scratches or bites. State wildlife laws therefore require wild animals kept as pets to be licensed and vaccinated as a precaution, and most agencies advise against private ownership entirely to reduce potential risks.

Public response to Peanut’s euthanization has been overwhelmingly emotional, with many fans and followers voicing frustration at what they see as an unnecessary and heavy-handed action. Wildlife advocates, however, have pointed out the difficulties in balancing public safety with the compassionate care of rescued animals. The issue of “celebrity pets” in particular—animals that gain a social media following—has become a focal point, raising questions about whether exceptions should be made for beloved animals who have become part of public life and awareness.

Amid the debate, Peanut’s owners have vowed to push for more transparency and flexibility in state regulations for rescued wildlife. They argue that Peanut and Fred were not kept as pets in the traditional sense but were part of a personal commitment to rescue and care for animals in need. They also emphasize that Peanut was not symptomatic and believe she could have been monitored safely rather than euthanized.

In a broader sense, Peanut’s story is bringing attention to the complex intersection of wildlife regulations, animal rescue ethics, and the modern phenomenon of “viral pets.” Experts are suggesting that clearer protocols and exceptions for rescued or rehabilitated animals could help avoid similar conflicts in the future. Wildlife experts, however, continue to emphasize the challenges of caring for wild animals in domestic settings, even with the best of intentions, due to the risk of disease transmission.

As the discussion unfolds, Peanut’s legacy as a much-loved social media figure lives on, sparking conversations around wildlife care and inspiring a community of followers. Her owners have shared heartfelt tributes and are seeking support to reform wildlife policies. Meanwhile, Fred the raccoon remains under state watch, though the owners are hopeful they will find a solution that avoids a similar outcome.