Orphaned squirrel Peanut euthanized after seizure by New York authorities

Peanut, a popular orphaned squirrel, was euthanized after being seized by New York state authorities during a raid on his caretaker's home. The seizure followed complaints about the animals living with humans, raising rabies exposure concerns. The state Department of Environmental Conservation took Peanut and a raccoon named Fred from Mark Longo's home. Both animals were euthanized to test for rabies after a person was bitten by Peanut. Peanut had gained a large following on social media over seven years. Longo, who runs an animal sanctuary, was in the process of certifying Peanut as an educational animal when the seizure occurred.