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momofsquirrelly
08-13-2009, 02:17 PM
I didn't think I'd be taking care of baby squirrels so soon, but the animal hospital actually gave my number to someone as an assistant rehabber because the women couldnt find anyone to take them! So, I'm working with an experience rehabber, but she isn't always available because she is extremely busy with a lot of animals. You are so helpful and compassionate and knowledgeable, I'm hoping with help I will raise these babies to be healthy, happy and wonderful treeclimbers!
There are 2 males and 1 female. I know a picture would help,(I hope to get my camera back from my son soon and figure out how to post the picture).
Don't overfeed runs through my head, as well as, dehydration. These little darlings have loose skin on their backs. Is this normal for this age? I just got them 5 hours ago. The lady had them for 10 days and has been feeding them 'Just Born' for puppies about every 2 hours about 2cc. She just started to spread feedings apart a little further. They are urinating, but their stool is too loose. Is it also normal if they are lying on their back to have a little struggle to turn over? They were cool to the touch when I got them, but they are warmed up now. I appreciate your input. Thank you.

island rehabber
08-13-2009, 02:28 PM
MOS, first of all bless you for taking on the care of these little ones!
First thing you should do is make sure you have a good heating pad, without a shut off feature, and the babies' container is half-on half -off the pad, set on low.
Now throw out the Just Born......
...just kidding. But you are going to transition them OFF of it, to Esbilac puppy formula. For the first two feedings mix 1/2 Esbilac 1/2 Just Born, then the next two should be 3/4 Esbilac 1/4 Just Born, then full Esbilac after that. The loose stools are probably from the Just Born formula -- it's not the best although some squirrels have done ok on it. At 2-3 weeks their skin will be a bit loose but not overly so...they may be dehydrated. Every 2 hours sounds way too often to me.....try every 3 hrs and see if they take in more and their poops improve. If not, we go to plan B. :D

momofsquirrelly
08-13-2009, 02:43 PM
Thank you. I bought Esbilac and will do the mixing. I fed them once on Esbilac only because I wasnt sure how old the Just Born was.... They are comfortable and warm.