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New York Officials Apologize for Euthanasia of Pet Squirrel P’Nut, Owner Remains Unsatisfied
In a belated acknowledgment of mishandling the case of a pet squirrel, New York State officials have issued an apology regarding the capture and subsequent euthanasia of P’Nut. However, this expression of regret, arriving months after the incident, has failed to appease the rodent’s owner, who continues to seek the return of P’Nut’s remains. The incident has raised concerns about wildlife management and animal welfare practices in New York.
State Apology for “Heavy-Handed” Treatment
Amanda Lefton, acting director of the state Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), released a public statement on Friday offering an apology to New York residents concerning the agency’s handling of P’Nut the squirrel and Fred the raccoon last fall. The DEC’s actions were described as “insensitive and severe,” prompting widespread public criticism and highlighting issues surrounding the treatment of wildlife and pet animals.
“We acknowledge that we can improve our procedures going forward,” Lefton stated, indicating a review of existing protocols.
“We have carefully considered all public feedback and understand the distress caused to communities across the state,” she added, recognizing the public outcry and emotional impact of the incident.
“My priority is to review our current wildlife protection and enforcement processes to safeguard New Yorkers and prevent similar events in the future,” Lefton asserted, promising procedural changes to avoid recurrence.
Owner Deems Apology Insincere
Mark Longo, P’Nut’s rescuer and owner, expressed his dissatisfaction with the DEC’s delayed apology, telling The Post that the agency’s pronouncements lacked genuine remorse. He characterized the apology as inadequate and out of touch with the deep emotional impact of P’Nut’s loss.
“Today was particularly painful. Frankly, I remain shocked and deeply upset by their response,” Longo conveyed in a statement, highlighting his continued grief and anger.
“It took the DEC nearly five months to respond, and their response is simply, ‘We can do better.’ Five months of uncertainty surrounding Peanut’s death. Five months, and we still haven’t been informed of the location of Peanut’s and Fred’s bodies,” Longo lamented, emphasizing the prolonged silence and lack of resolution.
“No answers, no contrition, I am at a complete loss,” Longo further stated, conveying his sense of helplessness and unanswered questions.
Remains Held as “Evidence”
As of December, the remains of P’Nut and Fred were being kept as evidence in a refrigerated storage facility in upstate New York, according to a DEC spokesperson who spoke to The Post. This revelation added to the owner’s distress and highlighted the bureaucratic handling of the animals’ remains.
Details of the Seizure and Euthanasia
P’Nut and Fred were removed from Longo’s residence by DEC agents on October 30 and euthanized the following day. The DEC acted after receiving an anonymous complaint alleging a potentially rabid animal at the Chemung County property, triggering a rapid and ultimately fatal intervention for the animals.
DEC officers thoroughly searched Longo’s home for several hours, ultimately removing P’Nut and Fred. This marked the last time the devoted pet owner would see his beloved animals alive. Both animals were rescue cases, having been taken in by Longo and cared for at his sanctuary.
P’Nut’s Rescue Story
Longo rescued P’Nut, a six-year-old squirrel, from the streets of New York City after witnessing the tragic death of the squirrel’s mother, who was struck by a vehicle. P’Nut was a very young squirrel at the time of his rescue, highlighting Longo’s commitment to animal welfare from a young age.
Fred’s Arrival
Fred the raccoon was brought to Longo’s home and accepted into his care. Fred was approximately four months old when he was euthanized by DEC officials, indicating a significant period of care and bonding before the controversial DEC action.
Leadership Change at DEC
Lefton’s appointment as acting head of the state DEC occurred last month. She succeeded Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar, who was the agency’s head during the P’Nut incident. This leadership change comes amidst public scrutiny of the DEC’s actions and raises questions about potential shifts in agency policy and approach.