Mark Longo, who called Peanut the Squirrel his pet for this past seven years, described the New York's decision to seize and euthanize the wild animal turned social media star a "disgrace." "What happened today and what transpired throughout this week has been nothing short of a tragedy and a disgrace to the New York state,

Internet-famous Peanut the squirrel was euthanized after NY wildlife officials seized him from his owner’s home, sparking widespread outrage and forcing state offices to close amid bomb threats. Learn what led to the viral pet’s controversial death.

The controversy over Peanut, the pet squirrel and social media sensation seized by the state Department of Environmental Conservation and euthanized last week, has raised questions about who can and should handle wildlife in New York.

According to the DEC and the Chemung County Department of Health, Fred and Peanut were euthanized after a person involved with the investigation was bitten by Peanut.

Mark Longo gained a massive following online by sharing videos of Peanut, an orphaned squirrel he rescued seven years ago.

It has not been announced that the bomb threats correlate with the seizure and euthanasia of Peanut the Squirrel.

Peanut, a small wild creature, was taken from the home of Mark Longo after he failed to obtain a proper license.

Two animals, Peanut the squirrel and Fred the raccoon, were euthanized after being confiscated from a New York home by officials last week.

Wildlife rehabilitators can legally care for injured or sick squirrels, but the animals can't be pets in many states.

Image via Instagram The death of Peanut the Squirrel occurred at an odd time in America — right before the presidential election. As a result, several conservative figures have latched onto the animal's euthanization as proof of government oversight.