A raccoon that gained viral fame after breaking into a Virginia liquor store and passing out has raised nearly $290,000 for the Hanover County Animal Protection and Shelter. The animal, which became an internet sensation last year, was safely released back into the wild after being nursed to health by staff.
- The shelter generated nearly $290,000 by selling “Trashed Panda” merchandise including T-shirts, mugs, and stickers.
- Funds raised exceed the shelter's typical annual donation totals, according to reports from KCRA.
- The capital is funding new resources, including body cameras for animal control officers, as noted in reports by WWBT.
The incident began when the raccoon broke into a local liquor store, sampled the inventory, and was discovered unconscious near a toilet. The Hanover County Animal Protection and Shelter took custody of the animal, providing care until it was fully recovered.
“After a few hours of sleep and zero signs of injury (other than maybe a hangover and poor life choices), he was safely released back to the wild, hopefully having learned that breaking and entering is not the answer,” the shelter said at the time.
The financial windfall has provided the shelter with resources that were previously out of reach. Beyond the immediate operational costs of animal care, the funds are being directed toward professional equipment for the staff.
“It was just remarkable the amount of feedback that came with it. I think a lot of people can relate to it as well,” Jeffrey Parker, the chief of animal protection for Hanover County, told WWBT. “But it has just been remarkable.”
| Resource Category | Impact of Viral Funding |
|---|---|
| Shelter Revenue | Nearly $290,000 raised |
| Operational Upgrades | New body cameras for officers |
| Merchandise Strategy | “Trashed Panda” apparel and accessories |
The shelter confirmed that the raccoon was released back into the wild after recovering from its ordeal, with no lasting injuries reported. This brings a close to the viral chapter, though the equipment purchased with the proceeds will remain in use by Hanover County animal control officers for the foreseeable future.
