In a heartbreaking and controversial move, New York State officials euthanized P’nut the Squirrel, a beloved pet with thousands of adoring followers, igniting a firestorm of public outrage and calls for accountability. Mark Longo, P’nut’s owner, took to TikTok on Saturday, delivering an emotional statement about the loss of his cherished companion and voicing anger and disbelief at the heavy-handed actions of the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC).
A Tearful Farewell and Anger Toward State Authorities
Joined by his wife, Longo expressed his devastation in a TikTok live video. “I’m angry, I’m sad, I’m disgusted,” he said through tears, describing how New York State’s actions felt like a betrayal of the family’s trust in its government. The DEC’s raid has sparked fierce public backlash, with hundreds of outraged comments flooding the department’s social media accounts, demanding answers for what supporters see as a senseless act.
The overwhelming support from the public has been a small solace for Longo and his wife, who have been flooded with messages of sympathy and encouragement. A GoFundMe set up in P’nut’s honor has already raised over $73,000, reflecting the widespread support and sympathy for the couple.
A Raid on Private Property: Five Hours of Invasive Search
On Wednesday, DEC agents raided Longo’s Pine City residence, executing a five-hour search while the couple was forced to wait outside. According to Longo, he and his wife were not allowed to enter their own home unescorted, not even to use the bathroom without being searched. “They even checked the back of the toilet to see if I was hiding anything there,” Longo told The Post, describing the humiliating experience that left him feeling like a “criminal in his own home.”
The raid was reportedly triggered by anonymous complaints about another animal on the property, Fred the raccoon, who was alleged to be a potential rabies vector. Authorities claimed both P’nut and Fred had to be euthanized for rabies testing—a claim that Longo and many supporters find highly questionable.
Skepticism Over State’s Justification for Euthanasia
The DEC asserts that P’nut bit one of the agents, necessitating rabies testing. But Longo is skeptical. “I watched everybody put gloves on before they entered my house. They had gloves that you get an eagle to land on,” he said, pointing out that P’nut was friendly and well-behaved throughout his public life.
Longo is now demanding an investigation into the DEC’s conduct and the reasoning behind this invasive raid and euthanasia. He has filed a motion to obtain medical records to see if any agents actually tested positive for rabies—a disease that is extremely rare and unlikely in a domesticated squirrel.
Growing Backlash and Demand for Accountability
This incident has fueled outrage across the country, with many seeing it as an example of government overreach and disregard for private property rights. Longo’s story has resonated widely, with people across the nation calling for more accountability from state authorities. As the Longos seek justice for P’nut and demand answers from the DEC, the public outcry continues to grow.
As Longo put it, “We fight and work every day to pay our state taxes, and they turn around and do this to a family.” For many Americans, this story reflects growing frustration with an overreaching government that disregards personal freedoms and liberties. The Longos vow to keep fighting in memory of P’nut, hoping that their story will prevent future tragedies and protect pet owners’ rights.
I want to know what you think!
Send me your views, thoughts or what’s on your mind and we will feature on our newsletter or show!
Email to [email protected] OR
Leave a text, voice note or voicemail for the show on what your thoughts are at 708-982-0974
Connect with me on Spreely Social CLICK HERE to Check out Spreely Social
And don’t forget to watch us LIVE weekdays at 1p est! CLICK HERE to Watch The Rants of Izzo Show!
-Izzo
