Advocate for Wildlife with the My Life Mattered Squirrel Peanut and Fred Shirt
Peanut was a rescued squirrel raised by Mark Longo, who runs an animal sanctuary. Fred was a raccoon also under Longo’s care. Both animals had a large social media following, known for their playful interactions with Longo and each other.
Following anonymous complaints, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) officers raided Longo’s home, seizing Peanut and Fred due to concerns about potential rabies exposure. Both animals were euthanized for rabies testing.

The incident sparked outrage among animal lovers who questioned the necessity of euthanizing the animals, especially Peanut, who had been raised in a domestic environment for 10 years.
The shirt typically features images of Peanut and Fred alongside the phrase “My Life Mattered.” It serves as a memorial to the animals and a statement against what many perceive as an unnecessary and unjust action by the DEC.











