The DEC, in a statement sent to BBC News, defended the officers’ actions. “Wild animals, even those kept as pets, can pose significant health and safety risks to the public,” the agency said. “Our policies are designed to protect both people and wildlife.” When asked about the Pearsons’ alleged permit, the DEC declined to comment, citing pending litigation.
Animal rights organizations have already rallied behind the couple. The Humane Society of the United States issued a statement to USA Today calling Peanut’s death “unnecessary and deeply troubling,” and urging the state to “review outdated laws that fail to consider modern rehabilitation practices.”
Pet squirrel Peanut was seized and euthanized by NY officials. Legal experts say case could reshape exotic pet laws nationwide. pic.twitter.com/4W5HQrUqF5— Legal Lens (@LegalLensNews) August 9, 2025
Online, public outrage has exploded. A petition demanding justice for Peanut has garnered over 500,000 signatures in just three days, with commenters sharing photos of their own non-traditional pets and calling for an overhaul of state wildlife rules. “If this can happen to a squirrel, it can happen to my ferret, my parrot, my snake,” one post on Reddit read.
For the Pearsons, the days since Peanut’s death have been a blur of grief and legal meetings. “Every morning, I still expect him to come running for his breakfast,” Lauren told People. “Now, there’s just silence.” They’ve set up a memorial in their backyard with Peanut’s toys and the tiny sweaters Lauren knitted for him over the years.
Legal analysts say the case could hinge on whether the Pearsons’ permit was valid and whether the DEC followed proper seizure procedures. “If the couple can prove they had lawful possession, the state may face significant damages,” constitutional law professor Janet Holloway told Law360. “This could also trigger legislative reform to prevent future incidents.”
Michael says the lawsuit isn’t just about money. “No amount will bring him back. This is about making sure no one else has to go through this.” The couple’s legal team plans to file their full complaint in federal court next week, and they’ve vowed to take the case “as far as it needs to go” — even to the Supreme Court.
Couple vows to fight for justice after beloved pet squirrel Peanut is killed by NY officials. “We’ll never stop speaking his name.” pic.twitter.com/v8gKPx4z0J— Justice4Peanut (@Justice4Peanut) August 9, 2025
As for what comes next, the Pearsons say they will keep Peanut’s memory alive — and keep fighting. “He was only with us for three years, but he changed our lives,” Lauren said. “We’re going to make sure his story changes the law.”
