Peanut the squirrel tests negative for rabies after seizure by New York officials

Peanut the squirrel, who was euthanized after being seized from his owner, has tested negative for rabies. The state Department of Environmental Conservation took Peanut and a raccoon named Fred from Mark Longo's home on October 30 due to complaints about illegal wildlife keeping. Longo, who had cared for Peanut for over seven years, criticized the government's actions following the negative test results. He stated he expected the outcome, emphasizing his long-term care of the animals. The DEC has faced backlash for the seizure, with officials reporting violent threats. They are conducting an internal investigation and reviewing their policies related to the incident.