The seizure and euthanasia of a pet squirrel and raccoon in New York have sparked a massive backlash against the state's conservation agency.

Peanut's owner Mark Longo told NewsNation host Chris Cuomo that he is "appalled" that New York uses resources to kill a raccoon and squirrel.

The union representing New York environmental officers defended the decision to remove Peanut the Squirrel and a raccoon from a Pine City home, as misinformation about the incident has led to threats of violence against staff.

The state Department of Environmental Conservation says it is investigating the seizure of Peanut the squirrel, who was later euthanized, from an upstate home.

Image via Instagram Days after the euthanization of Peanut the Squirrel, its owner is saying Department of Environmental Conservation officials won't release the test results. Officials euthanized both Peanut and Fred the Raccoon after taking them from Mark Longo's home.

The union that represents New York State's Environmental Conservation Officers is speaking out Friday, calling for a "calm" in the wake of the controversy.