Owner of Instagram-famous squirrel says its seizure by state officials was ‘overkill’

Peanut the squirrel, an internet sensation that sparked an animal sanctuary in Pine City, N.Y., was euthanized after being seized from his home along with a raccoon, a statement from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation confirms. WETM's Nick Dubina talked with Peanut's owner.

Connect with NBC News Online!

#Squirrel #NewYork #Instagram

[mrxxbrian]

Police raiding and ransacking their place for a rescued squirrel and raccoon all because of some online bullies is definitely insane.

[amandaflippin]

I think we have much bigger problems in this country than a pet squirrel and raccoon living their best lives.

[Article]

euthanized both pets for fear of "rabies...." They never said whether they tested is beyond cruel.

[bcgrittner]

Now authorities say they euthanized both animals so they could be tested for rabies. Peanut was, obviously, not rabid. This entire ordeal went sickeningly wrong. There was no due process. I hope the owners are successful in a lawsuit against the state.

[milli]

IMAGINE GOING AFTER A SQUIRREL AND A RACOON, WHILE PEOPLE OUT THERE NEED HELP, WHAT A MESSED UP WORLD!!

[meganking]

Officials claimed rabies as a red herring. They were mad the owner didn't respect their authority, so they ganged up and murdered the squirrel in retaliation. This happens in many cases where the proper papers are not filled out to appease the powers in charge. No humans were ever in any danger from these animals. Poor critters.

[chicagobeast]

Rest in peace, little buddy, so sorry you were murdered by the state

[k.h.universe]

whoever filed that complaint is a true monster

[VonSolo]

The government literally destroyed this man’s pursuit of happiness. They deliberately and cruelly waged warfare on him, his family, and the public who he was bringing joy and happiness to.

[mischa]

6-8 officers?? Please please, lawsuit. This legit deserves lawsuit and justice for Peanut and their entire family.

[skymama]

... and then the animals were euthanized?? Not even given to an established wildlife rehab organization?

That was an absolutely cruelty.

[sabine]

This is so OUTRAGEOUS I am beyond angry. Thousands of us are so angry. This was unnecessary. These pets were cared for and healthy. Disgusting what they did.

[Dr.Aqueous]

If the squirrel wants to be in the house and they want the squirrel in the house, leave the squirrel in the house. This is stupid.

[Dallas-]

Justice for Peanut. Lawsuit lawsuit lawsuit make them pay for what they did, including the officers involved.

[SherryEllesson]

Having been a wildlife rehabber, licensed by both the state I lived in and the Fed., I can truthfully say that there are animals we help and release, but if they've become habituated (whether we meant for that to happen or not) they will prefer the home environment and are no danger outside that home. The people who complained just had their panties in a twist because this beautiful couple had some success and wanted to hurt them. So, SO sorry for Peanut and the raccoon's family and all the beautiful horses they've been helping.

[Diesel]

They killed peanut and Fred, and that's messed up

[thackerybinx]

Dude, that viewer who reported him must be the most miserable, good for nothing person ever, How could he just do that, knowing that peanut is deeply loved by over 3M people

[patsquach]

Get. The. NAME. of the. Judge that signed the warrant…. And. Interview him. !!!!

[judydorfner]

Somebody needs held responsible for this misuse of authority.

[merec]

What the NY DEC did is animal cruelty and a gross overreach. They need to be audited.