Adult/Young Adult Squirrel found on road

[NBHanna]

Friday afternoon I found a squirrel on the road who looked barely alive, I took him home and he was in shock then started doing circles which we think were because his injuries. But he is now calm and active at times.
The squirrel has a left broken leg and he does not function with his left paw either (walking/eating ect.) Could his leg not be broken but something wrong with his left side?
The squirrel drinks alot and eats a bit.
He has peed but hasn't pooped which is worrying me
He likes being picked up.. Is this normal or could he have brain damage?
What is the best things to try feeding him?
Any help is appreciated please ! :thinking

[crazysquirrels]

Keep him warm in a dark area. Fluids are good for now. But keeping him warm is important. Quiet too. Any pics?

[NBHanna]

Ok thanks, should I be worried he hasn't pooped?
Heres a pic:
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll34/couka_2008/charlie.jpg

[Rhapsody]

If he hasnt eaten any thing lately not pooping isnt necessarily a bad thing..... is he bloated? if not, then give him a good day (or two) of drinking and eating and see how he does.

[NBHanna]

He didn't eat at all Friday (the day we got him) then he ate a little yesterday and today... So he should be fine? And what about his possible broken leg, is there anything I can do for it ?

[Rhapsody]

I would offer him some chopped walnuts, peeled apples and full fat vanilla yogurt if all is well after a good nights rest.

[NBHanna]

And hes not bloated.

[NBHanna]

Okay well this will be the third night we have had him, he seem to be getting more active so thats good.

[Rhapsody]

He didn't eat at all Friday (the day we got him) then he ate a little yesterday and today... So he should be fine? And what about his possible broken leg, is there anything I can do for it ?
Sorry, I posted at the same time as you did.
Have you ordered any Fox Valley Formula yet? - If not you can feed this Homemade formula until you get some Fox Valley @ http://www.henryspets.com/

Jackie's Goat Milk Recipe
1 cup goats milk
1/3 cup heavy cream
1/3 cup dannon all natural vanilla yogurt

(keeps in frig for 72 hrs)
(gm - Publix dairy case)

As far as the leg goes I would recommended you look for a squirrel friendly vet in your area tomorrow.

[NBHanna]

Ok thanks so much, I'm taking him to a vet as soon as possible. If he doesn't heal proper and does have some brain damage would I be able to take care of him? Or do you think he will become mean.

[Rhapsody]

You should be able to take care of him IF he is deemed NR (non-releasable). :grouphug

[winky2]

Walking in circles, paralysis on one side of the body and finding him in the road all add up to likely traumatic brain injury. Unless you see obvious swelling, deformity or bruising on the legs In which case he could have a brain injury and fractures. We typically treat head injuries with supportive care and time and sometimes they make a full recovery sometimes only a partial recovery and occasionally none at all. Your guy sounds like he's already starting to recover because he's eating and moving around a bit. Keep him a warm and quiet place away from animal noises and smells, offer him healthy foods and fresh water (see nutritional section on this forum) and give him some time to see how he does. Do you have a scale so you can weigh him and track his weight? It's a really good way for us to determine his age and for you to make sure he doesn't start losing weight. He looks really young but it's hard to say for sure. How fluffy is his tail? I don't know what kind of squirrels you have up there. Before you take him to the vet make sure you find out ahead of time what their policy is for treating wildlife. Most places will not treat and release back to you unless you're a licensed rehabber. Good luck. Please keep us posted.

[Nancy in New York]

Ok thanks so much, I'm taking him to a vet as soon as possible. If he doesn't heal proper and does have some brain damage would I be able to take care of him? Or do you think he will become mean.

Please be very careful where you take him....there are a lot of places that will just euthanize. Let's first see if we can find a member in close by that may assist you with this little one. Thank you for picking this little one up and taking such good care of him!!!!!

[astra]

Please don't take him anywhere!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! He will be put down here.I am in Ontario, in Toronto. How far are you from me?... I am going to contact someone else here and see what we can do. If needed, I will pick him up tonight. Just e-mail me your contact info:
ad_astra81@hotmail.com:thankyou :thankyou :thankyou

[Nancy in New York]

Please don't take him anywhere!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! He will be put down here.I am in Ontario, in Toronto. How far are you from me?... I am going to contact someone else here and see what we can do. If needed, I will pick him up tonight. Just e-mail me your contact info:
ad_astra81@hotmail.com:thankyou :thankyou :thankyou

astra....You are an amazing girl...:bowdown :Love_Icon :Love_Icon :Love_Icon

[squirrelfriend]

Where is Beaverton? I am in Mississauga. I can take him in if needed but I don't know how far away you are.

[astra]

Ok thanks so much, I'm taking him to a vet as soon as possible. If he doesn't heal proper and does have some brain damage would I be able to take care of him? Or do you think he will become mean.
Please don't take him. Squirrels are illegal in ON, he will be seized from you and will be euthanized because with his injuries he will be deemed as having very little chance of full recovery. He will require much care and, usually, they don't bother with animals, especially, "ordinary" squirrels who require much care because they are "always understaffed and have limited means".We have a couple of people here who have experience caring for injuried squirrels, and someone will be on here very soon.

Thank you so much for picking him up!:thankyou :grouphug

[astra]

Where is Beaverton? I am in Mississauga. I can take him in if needed but I don't know how far away you are.
SF, I just googled it and it looks like it's about 2 hr (1.5o) away from both Mississauga and Toronto.

[squirrelfriend]

I can sureley take him. I have a dentist apointment in about a half an hour. I will be there for a hour then I am free after that. I do have to work tonight however. I can come get him if the person who has him can perhaps meet me half way? I will need some sleep before work tonight so the sooner the better.

I do know how to put the legs in casts if needed.

Has anyone heard form this person since last night?

Astra, I have to go to my apointment now. If you hear from this person can you call my cell again? Thanks. Gotta go.

[astra]

I can sureley take him. I have a dentist apointment in about a half an hour. I will be there for a hour then I am free after that. I do have to work tonight however. I can come get him if the person who has him can perhaps meet me half way? I will need some sleep before work tonight so the sooner the better.

I do know how to put the legs in casts if needed.

Has anyone heard form this person since last night?

Astra, I have to go to my apointment now. If you hear from this person can you call my cell again? Thanks. Gotta go.
yep, I will be in touch if I hear anything new

[Busysqrl]

Nice rescue work everyone! Astra you are fabulous and thanks to Squirrelfriend for being willing to care fo this little baby!

NBHanna, thank you for being such a compassionate person to pick an injured squirrel up off the road. Not many people would do that. You ROCK!!!!

[NBHanna]

Hey guys sorry I was busy with Charlie (the squirrel) and other stuff. He has started eating more and moving around on his own. I had read to take him to the vets but don't worry I won't now. I have experience helping a range of small animals and he seems pretty happy here so I don't want to disturb him. I also know people who have worked in vet offices and will help out. I just wanted pointers from people who know specifically about squirrels. :tilt
Thanks everyone for the help so far. :D

[NBHanna]

I already love him a lot and am willing to do what I can to heal him then let him free when/if he is ready.

[squirrelfriend]

Feel free to ask us if you need any advice. I am glad that you saved this guy. I wish the best for you two.:Love_Icon

[NBHanna]

Thank you so much :) Am I a bad person for wanting to look after him? Like everyone had to start somewhere, I want a career in helping animals too. And I will do everything I can for the little guy. :Love_Icon

[Nancy in New York]

Thank you so much :) Am I a bad person for wanting to look after him? Like everyone had to start somewhere, I want a career in helping animals too. And I will do everything I can for the little guy. :Love_Icon

You are a compassionate person wanting to help this baby. Perhaps have it looked at by somebody that you TRUST, and if the leg needs help they can help with that. Stay around TSB, so many great, squirrel loving people that would be more than willing to help you in any way they can.
Thrilled that you found us!:grouphug
Not sure if he has a broken leg that he will be able to be released, and please understand the commitment that keeping a NR would take. We will help you through whatever you need.

[NBHanna]

Thank you, I'm aware of the special care and the work that will be needed if he is not releasable and I'm fine with that. :)

[lilidukes]

Well sweetie you have jumped into the deep end of the pool here. Yes with help you can care for this squirrel. And you're right we all had to start somewhere. If you can tell us in detail everything you see and supply pictures. We can do our best to guide and assist you. You are going to need meds and other supply's. We can help!

I feed my injured kids Fox Valley formula for the very young ones and ensure(vanilla or now pecan flavored) mixed with a little yogurt (vanilla) and extra powdered calcium. Served warm from a syringe. Though I have had some who preferred a small bowl. I dice all veggies into small bites. They normally sit up on their back feet to eat so when this is not possible I dice. At first I like to get wilds eating any veggies I can, if they like it I give extra we can work out a few bad problems later. Chopped pecans sprinkled over veggies works too. Avocado is good helps to put weight on them. Fruits like mango and water melon helps to keep them hydrated.

Wishing you both the very best:grouphug :grouphug

[astra]

:grouphug You are a wonderful person, saving him and wanting to care for him.:)

It's just that caring for an injured squirrel might be for a more experienced someone.
And keeping a disabled squirrel is an enormous committment. They can live up to 15 years.
1. They have very specific nutritional needs, which translates into a lot of expenses buying the right stuff. Without that they can get sick easily and die.
2. 9.5 times out of 10 they don't make good pets. They bond with one person only , which means finding a babysitter will be VERY difficult. People end up scheduling their lives (e.g., vacations, family time, etc etc) around their squirrels (and they love it, but it's not easy)
3. When they are in distress, upset, not feeling well, spooked (and they get easily spooked), scared, in discomfort, they bite because they are wild animals. They can bite your family, your children etc.
4. They are messy, too :D , most of them poop and pee wherever and whenever they want. Because that's what they do in the trees.:D
5. If he doesn't recover enough to be released (and with his kind of injuries it happens often), he will require a lot of extra care (on top of all of the above).
Some of them, who end up being paralized, require almost daily baths (and squirrels don't like baths :D ) and many special things to keep them healthy and well.
6. Singles require much one-on-one time, attention and all that, even much more than a dog or a cat, or a parrot.
7. They get easily bored, and can get depressed or cage-stir-crazy and need constant stimulation.

You are very welcome to check out the Nutrition section, as well as threads about disabled squirrels (don't remember them off the top of my head, but you can search for "paralized squirrel" or something similar; Charley Chuckles thread )

So, if you feel you could commit to this - by any means.:thumbsup But it might be a good idea to let someone experienced look at him first (not a vet, though, or any other professional, because squirrels are illegal here and will be seized)

[CritterMom]

Oh, the squirrel magic is so strong; I see it has claimed another victim.

We have lots of people on here who can help you both hands on and with advise, you just have to ask. Please review the Nutrition forum thoroughly. Nuts won't cut it long term; and the sooner he is on a good diet the better his chance of healing will be.:thumbsup

[NBHanna]

Thanks :) I'm going to find someone to have a look at him. I have 4 ferrets so messiness and attention is something I'm used to lol. I actually have a video which shows how he moves his left paw but doesn't use it, if that will help any:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bdW0gtkRH1I

[lilidukes]

Can he use the back legs???

[NBHanna]

His right left leg and arm work. His left leg we thought was broken and hes a small cut, when he walks it just drags behind him

[NBHanna]

I mean right leg and arm, its his left leg and arm with problems. sorry about that

[lilidukes]

Have you felt gently for breaks in the arm and leg? I would check ribs also. He will bite or try to bite you I you cause pain. Does he or can he hold his tail up?? Though my current patient Brighteyes was lifting and curling her tail and has 2 fractures of the spine.

[NBHanna]

oh wow i didn't mess what i said up the first time :tilt embarrassing...
I haven't checked but I will, he actually bit me pretty good when I found him but hasn't since. And he doesn't move his tail, at all. :shakehead

[virgo062]

Brighteyes did not move her tail for the first few days either....You should read her story it may give you hope:D

[NBHanna]

Okay I'll do that :)

[NBHanna]

Do you have a link to it? :D

[lilidukes]

Brighteyes

http://www.thesquirrelboard.com/forums/showthread.php?p=627831#post627831

[bonniel]

i am praying for you both. what a challenge. i often wonder what i would do? these little guys DO require so much attention. i used to find my little one on a window sill depressed, when i had alot of work to do in the house. so i would take some paper and plastic bags in that room and sit on the floor and just pretend to be wrapping things. in a few minutes hewould be tearing the paper, in the bags, on my head, just loving the attention. :))
i'm sorry. in your case you can't do that. that was thoughtless of me.
i know i will/am praying that things go well.
God bless you for being such a caring person!
hugs ooooooooo

[Gina]

Oh, the squirrel magic is so strong; I see it has claimed another victim.


Charlie is a handsome guy. So glad you are open to keeping him forever if necessary. He will be worth all of your efforts as squirrel magic IS strong. It takes a special soul to reach out and help an animal in need and we are so happy you did. :Welcome

[crazysquirrels]

Thank you so much :) Am I a bad person for wanting to look after him? Like everyone had to start somewhere, I want a career in helping animals too. And I will do everything I can for the little guy. :Love_Icon
You did the right thing. This is probibly how most of us come into contact with these little ones. My first 2 were saved buy a landlord trying to shoot them while in a haveahart cage. I was able to intercept mom and 2 babies and save them. 2 are back in the wild. We as people cause these problems and some of us are here to help fix it. A solution. You are part of that. Congrats.:wott

[NBHanna]

I love how your all such genuine people :) I can't thank you all enough for the help you have and will be giving me

[CritterMom]

Well, then some practical stuff. He is obviously injured so for right now, he should be in fairly small quarters to discourage a lot of movement or climbing. It needs to be chewproof - a plastic dog kennel won't work. Be careful of bar spacing - 1/3" to 3/8" is best. He will later need something roomier.

He needs a place to hide. I would get one of these: http://www.ferret.com/item/super-pet-sleep-e-tent-ferret-bed/650869/ or this: http://www.ferret.com/ferret-hammocks-and-beds/see-all-ferret-hammocks-and-beds/200/ and it can move to his larger cage later. They LOVE these - put some small pieces of soft fleece inside and they will customize.

I would also cover most of this early cage so he feels concealed.

He needs to start eating a food that will provide all of his needs. There is a recipe for "Boo Balls" made with rat block in the nutrition forum; there is a TSB member who makes several types of squirrel block at www.henryspets.com. He needs close attention paid to his diet.

I would absolutely purchase some Bach's Rescue Remedy from a health food store. It is an herbal calming agent for humans that is excellent for animals. If you purchase the human formula, you can spray or dropper it onto bare skin like paw pads and it is absorbed transdermally. They just calm down and handle stressful situations with less stress - very good before examinations or any time he is stressed.

Either go to a fabric store or even better, go to a Walmart/Kohls/type place and buy one or two of the super soft fleece microfiber blankets they have on sale this time of year. It is excellent for squirrels - they LOVE it (they love luxury; no, I'm not kidding) and it does not ravel into threads so they don't get their claws stuck. Cut into a pile of small squares and tuck a few into the nest and just toss the rest in the cage - he will use them.

So there's a start!

[lilidukes]

Do you have someone that can look Charlie over and try to assess his injuries or would you like us to help you find someone? This needs to be done very soon like yesterday.

Respiratory and urinary infections can happen quickly. Be aware of any night time teeth grinding, chattering watery or teary eyes or crying. Any clicking sounds that don't stop and his urine should be clear without a "nasty" odor.

Charlie and all his bedding HAS to be kept dry. Is he dry all the time? Are you sure he is peeing on his own and not laying on his tummy and leaking?

At the least Charlie needs to be on metacam(anti inflammatory w/ mild pain reliever) and possibly AB's.

I want to stress to you that Charlie needs help Now. I have lost squirrels because well meaning peeps hold on to them thinking that in a few days or a week they will just get up and be fine. Squirrels are great fighters and have a strong will to live. It tears my heart up knowing had I gotten them sooner I might of been able to save them. So if I or any other members seem to be pushy this is the reason why. We will attack you with a massive amount of questions, just do your best to answer as many as you can.

Let's get this ball rolling Do you need someone to look Charlie over?????

[NBHanna]

It would be great if someone could take a look at Charlie. And I think the pee could be leaking, but I'm not very sure because h has a hard time moving around sometimes but I have found some puddles.

[NBHanna]

Good news: I just found some poop in Charlies cage and hes MUCH more active.

[NBHanna]

Brighteyes

http://www.thesquirrelboard.com/forums/showthread.php?p=627831#post627831


I cant see the link to this yet because my account isn't completely active. :(

[CritterMom]

Poop is good. You don't want him lying in his urine though - he will get urine scald - like bad diaper rash. He needs something under him that is extremely absorbent and wicks moisture away quickly - perhaps puppy piddle pads.

[Squirlgirl]

Is it possible for you to post a picture?

:grouphug

[NBHanna]

I posted a picture earlier as well as a video showing how he doesn't function his left paw: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bdW0gtkRH1I
Photobucket isn't letting me upload pictures proper and I don't know how else to show pictures... do you have Facebook? because I have a few picture on there.

[NBHanna]

Or I could email pictures.

[Squirlgirl]

Thank you for the video...:thumbsup

His left arm is moving which is good.

Does he have pinch reflex on that hand, the leg in question or his tail?

:grouphug

[NBHanna]

Sorry what do you mean by pinch reflex?

[Squirlgirl]

If you gently pinch the hand, foot or tail, will it retract/move or do the parts act numb?

:grouphug

[lilidukes]

Is he wet????? If so you are going to have to start bathing him. At least once a day and sometimes more. My Brighteyes even with daily baths and changing all of her bedding 3 times a day got urine scald and was in great pain from this. I had to put her on pain meds and wait a few days for the right med to arrive. Brighteyes came to me with only one working limb. I put her on a steroid and within days she regained use of her front leg. Went to vet got x-rays 2 breaks in her spine. Vet wanted to euthanize. After weeks of round the clock treatment and care she actually took a couple of steps 2 days ago. I want you to know this sweet girl has bit me repeatedly. Yes I feed her and give her treats take her to sun bathe every chance we get. I on the other hand catch her make her take foul tasting drugs, bathe her (not a natural squirrel thing) hurt her by doing water therapy daily to work all of her muscles. I rub a cream all over her back side to keep her from ever getting urine scald again. I'm the one keeping her caged in a smaller cage to limit her movements so that she does not re injure herself.

Sorry started to ramble.:shakehead

If bathes are necessary that is a whole other set of advicwe and directions.:tilt

[NBHanna]

I will check that out.. I have never seen his tail move either.
Yes he is wet.. I was debating if I was supposed to bathe him or not, do I use only water? Or can I use some sort of shampoo? I have ferret, dog, and cat shampoos available and I can go get any other if needed.

[Squirlgirl]

ATP bathing is not the issue....you can gently wipe him with a warm, soft, wet wash cloth....which may also help stimulate him to pee.

His actual movement issues/possible breaks/spinal issues are more important.

Not knowing what actually happend is difficcult, but we have to go by what we see and prioritize.

He looks bright eyed and obviously wants to eat.

As far as the arm, which has movement and he is expressing no pain...looks more like swelling and not a break.

:grouphug

[lilidukes]

I use baby soap the lavender relaxing kind. DO not run water around him. I fill a couple of big bowls and two sinks with water. Wash with a small cloth with soap in one bowl and dip and rinse in the other three. I use a wrap with a baby towel on the bottom next layer 2 receiving blankets and then 2 cotton burp/diaper clothes. snuggle with these for about 5 minutes then into another bunch of receiving blankets and burp/diaper clothes with a rice buddy in between the outer layers(sock filled with rice nuked 20-30 seconds. You have to get him dry and keep him warm. then place him back in his cage with more dry cotton bedding w/heating pad.cover with fleece in 30-45 minutes they are almost completely dry and the bedding needs to be changed again. Brighteyes has 2 or 3 loads of laundry a day.

[NBHanna]

Ok thanks.. His back leg doesn't look like it's in good condition, I don't really know how I can show the way he moves with it and everything though..

[Squirlgirl]

I tried to pm you, but it is not working as of yet.

Can you post a pic of the back leg?

[lilidukes]

Ok thanks.. His back leg doesn't look like it's in good condition, I don't really know how I can show the way he moves with it and everything though..


Why don't we put you in contact with squirrelfriend and let them take a look at Charlie. Squirrelfriend has done amazing work with severely injured squirrels. IMO that is what you should do first.

[NBHanna]

Ok, I'll try getting a picture of his leg..
Yes please, I want any help possible for Charlie:)

[Squirlgirl]

I Agree!
Squirrelfriend is excellent.

:grouphug

[lilidukes]

We are tracking squirrelfriend down for you hang on

[NBHanna]

Ok thanks !

[Nancy in New York]

squirrelfriend has that magic touch with squirrels. I know that she will be more than happy to look at your little one, and treat it accordingly...she is the absolute best there is, and has worked wonders with many that seemed to have no hope.
You are an amazing person to be doing what you are for this little one, when you love something this much, it's easy to want the very best for them though...:Love_Icon :Love_Icon

[lilidukes]

Ok thanks !
Hold on I'm passing you on to Nancy in NY, astra and gs1

I have 2 baby squirrels and a baby rabbit coming in the morning and I've got to get ready for them. I'll be around.:grouphug :grouphug :grouphug :grouphug

[NBHanna]

Ok thanks so much :D

[Runestonez]

I have the van tomorrow if needed...
I can drop hubby off and be on the way by 8:30am.

[NBHanna]

I go to school and have a friend look after Charlie while I'm gone and I'm not home until about 3:30pm :(

[Runestonez]

Do you have transportation tonight?
If you meet me halfway I could pick him up tonight.

[NBHanna]

No I don't sorry.

[astra]

Squirrelfriend is at work right now.

So, I called her and left her a message on her cell to let her know that you might need her to check the little one out and see if she could come out and examine him.
I've also forwarded to her your e-mail address, so if she e-mails you - keep an eye on your Junk Box, just in case her e-mail ends up in there
If you would like to, you could e-mail me your phone # and I will pass it on to her, so that she could call you tomorrow.

[NBHanna]

No I don't usually answer phone calls because I don't have caller ID but I will check my email at all times. I also really don't wanna get rid of him :(

[astra]

No I don't usually answer phone calls because I don't have caller ID but I will check my email at all times. I also really don't wanna get rid of him :(
It's ok about the phone. E-mail will work just fine. She will probably e-mail you tomorrow morning, because she will be working tonight through the night.
:) :grouphug And I am sure you can keep him, just if she could come out and look at him, check him out that could be very helpful because she does have experience with injured squirrels.
So, she will definitely get my message and my e-mail, so let's wait.:grouphug :grouphug

[NBHanna]

Ok thanks :) I would have no problem releasing him if he is releasable I just don't want to just get rid of him if you know what I mean.:Love_Icon

[astra]

Ok thanks :) I would have no problem releasing him if he is releasable I just don't want to just get rid of him if you know what I mean.:Love_Icon
oh, here everyone knows what you mean!:) :grouphug

[NBHanna]

Good :) I don't want to sound cruel or selfish, because I do care about him getting better

[Nancy in New York]

Right now, he just needs to be looked at to assess his injuries. This doens't mean that he will be going anywhere. Perhaps squirrelfriend can do everything that needs to be done right where he is.
I'm sure too that she can tell by feeling his spine if there are injuries there as well. We just have to know what we are dealing with. There are many squirrels that can lead a very happy life and still have a handicap....lets just make sure we know what we are dealing with first...:thumbsup

[NBHanna]

Where is she from? Nancy is she the person you emailed me about?

[astra]

Where is she from? Nancy is she the person you emailed me about?
She is here in Ontario, she posted earlier on this thread

[NBHanna]

Do you know if shes near Beaverton ? I can't view profiles :( does anyone have any idea when i will be able to?

[Nancy in New York]

Do you know if shes near Beaverton ? I can't view profiles :( does anyone have any idea when i will be able to?

I think that it takes a couple of days....:shakehead

[NBHanna]

Aww that sucks :(

[squirrelfriend]

Try to feel around the tail and hips for breaks. If he has hip problems it would make him not want to move the tail too. I don't think it is paralisis or spinal. Both legs would be paralised then. It sounds like he took a bad fall or got hit hard on the one side.

I know how to do casts. I can do it for you but can you bring him here? He needs them done right away as soon as possible before they set wrong. The often need to be done often because they tend to chew them off. I have tried cones but they never work for me. It just makes them misserable. I had one that I had to do casts for sometimes several times a week. I got lucky with her once and it lasted 2 weeks. It all depends on how determined they are to get at it.

If he has casts on you need to keep a close eye on the toes. If they start to swell the cast is too tight and needs to be redone right away. This would mean that it is cutting circulation.

How is the little guy this morning?

[Nancy in New York]

Try to feel around the tail and hips for breaks. If he has hip problems it would make him not want to move the tail too. I don't think it is paralisis or spinal. Both legs would be paralised then. It sounds like he took a bad fall or got hit hard on the one side.

I know how to do casts. I can do it for you but can you bring him here? He needs them done right away as soon as possible before they set wrong. The often need to be done often because they tend to chew them off. I have tried cones but they never work for me. It just makes them misserable. I had one that I had to do casts for sometimes several times a week. I got lucky with her once and it lasted 2 weeks. It all depends on how determined they are to get at it.

If he has casts on you need to keep a close eye on the toes. If they start to swell the cast is too tight and needs to be redone right away. This would mean that it is cutting circulation.

How is the little guy this morning?

Just another thing to add, and squirrelfriend, I'm sure you are aware of this.
Anytime there is a squirrel that had any kind of hit, there is a concern that the jaw/teeth may have been knocked causing them to become misaligned thus requiring frequent teeth trimming. Just something to watch out for.

[NBHanna]

Thanks guys and no sorry, I don't drive and the soonest I could get anywhere would be maybe the weekend.

[astra]

Thanks guys and no sorry, I don't drive and the soonest I could get anywhere would be maybe the weekend.
is there a way at all that someone could drive you so that we could meet half the way at least (that will be less stressful on him since less time travelling)?

[lilidukes]

Thanks guys and no sorry, I don't drive and the soonest I could get anywhere would be maybe the weekend.


Hi just checking in to see how you and Charlie are today. Sweetie, Charlie might not make it to the weekend. He needs attention asap.

Wow my posts must be such a downer to you. :sanp3 I am very worried for Charlie. Wish I were closer to you. But I'm sending you lots of long distance healing thoughts and prayers:grouphug :grouphug :grouphug

[NBHanna]

Hi guys.. I'm trying to sort something out for Charlie.. Hes doing good today, moving around even more... I'm gunna miss him..:shakehead

[Rhapsody]

:grouphug :Love_Icon :Love_Icon :Love_Icon :grouphug

[NBHanna]

:grouphug :Love_Icon :Love_Icon :Love_Icon :grouphug
Thanks for all your help :) I know its not what I wanted but I said I'd do anything to help him so I guess this is it. :)

[lilidukes]

Thanks for all your help :) I know its not what I wanted but I said I'd do anything to help him so I guess this is it. :)

Sometimes doing the best thing hurts so much, but putting Charlie first...let me tell you what you rock:alright.gif :alright.gif :alright.gif :alright.gif :alright.gif

:grouphug :grouphug :grouphug :grouphug :grouphug :grouphug

[stepnstone]

Thanks for all your help :) I know its not what I wanted but I said I'd do anything to help him so I guess this is it. :)

O.K. I've missed something here. Did someone take Charlie? :thinking

[squirrelfriend]

Hi, I just went throught the thread. Did you guys want me to take Charlie in? If so I can come right away. I need to leave before 10:00 am. I work nights so I need to sleep before work tonight. Please pm me your phone # so that I can call you.

[NBHanna]

Astra said they may be able to take him to you but I haven't heard anything else. I'm at school and a friend has charlie.

[virgo062]

Where is Charlie going?:osnap

[astra]

Astra said they may be able to take him to you but I haven't heard anything else. I'm at school and a friend has charlie.
Hi NBHanna, I got your e-mail :thankyou and I also spoke to Squirrelfriend. She can come right away, right now - she will be e-mailing you to verify the address and make sure you don't miss each other. Please keep checking your e-mails, because if she leaves, she has to leave right now, because she has other stuff later on in the day.:grouphug :thankyou :thankyou :thankyou :thankyou :thankyou :grouphug

[NBHanna]

Thanks everyone for all your help ! Charlie is now on his way to squirrelfriend with Astra :thumbsup A huge thank you to Astra for coming all the way here to get him & to squirrelfriend for being able to take him and help him :D
I'm gunna miss Charlie :Love_Icon

[CritterMom]

You just did one of the HARDEST things to do - to give up something you loved because you loved him and knew it wasn't the easy thing, but the RIGHT thing.

Maybe you should hang around and read and learn and the next time, it won't be a critical case. Squirrlfriend is good about updating us on her rescues, too!

Thanks. You done good.:thumbsup :grouphug

[Jackie in Tampa]

;) TSB is the best!
thank you for thinking about Charlie!:Love_Icon

[crazysquirrels]

You did what was best for him. Thanks.

[Busysqrl]

NBHanna - I too applaud you :thumbsup That is one of the hardest things to do, because you love the little guy and you rescued it. But it is probably best for the squirrel in the long run. I've even seen members on here who have raised babies and have some squirrel experience, then come across a critical injured squirrel, give that critical squirrel up to another rehabber who has experience with injuries. It's one thing to raise a healthy baby squirrel without any experience, it's quite another to help a severly injured squirrel with without experience. It's just beyond most people's capabilities. It's wonderful of you to love little Charlie so much to want to do what is best for him putting your own feelings aside. You ROCK!!!! :grouphug :grouphug :grouphug

Astra and Squirrelfriend - you folks ROCK TOO!! My goodness, you will all surely get some extra jewels in your crowns for all you do for the squirrels in your care :jump It is a labor of love to care for a critically injured squirrel. It's emotional, time consuming and can be expensive. :thankyou :thankyou :thankyou

[NBHanna]

It's crazy how you can become so attached to something. I only had him 5 days and already loved him :) It was hard but I know he is in very good hands now :jump I'll defiantly be sticking around! hopefully my account will actually be active soon.

[Nancy in New York]

It's crazy how you can become so attached to something. I only had him 5 days and already loved him :) It was hard but I know he is in very good hands now :jump I'll defiantly be sticking around! hopefully my account will actually be active soon.

You are one amazing girl I tell ya!:bowdown :bowdown
For you to pick this little one up off of the road, keep him alive, and find help for him, and then turn him over to somebody else....you are really my hero...:Love_Icon :Love_Icon :Love_Icon Thank you for loving him enough to give him the very best....:Love_Icon :grouphug :Love_Icon
astra and squirrelfriend....you know how I feel about you both...:Love_Icon :Love_Icon :Love_Icon :Love_Icon

[Busysqrl]

It's crazy how you can become so attached to something. I only had him 5 days and already loved him :) It was hard but I know he is in very good hands now :jump I'll defiantly be sticking around! hopefully my account will actually be active soon.


Oh you know it sista! We've ALL been there :grouphug I was in love with my baby girl from the moment I picked her up off the ground. I think us being women, we're a little more prone to that too. Our maternal instincts kick in and we don't want to give them up. It's not that we don't want the best for them, it's that we love them so much. That's why what you did took so much courage and showed your real love for this baby. My hat's off to you :grouphug

[Pierre]

NBHanna :grouphug :grouphug :grouphug

You're his angel. :Love_Icon :Love_Icon :Love_Icon

[crazysquirrels]

EVERYBODY did FANTASTIC with this one.:thumbsup
BTW Astra I put up new picks of Talula in the grey section.

[astra]

Well, little Charlie is with Squirrelfriend now.

NBHanna, I know I told you that in person, but I would like to put it in black and white, that you are one of the rare amazing people, to bother to stop and pick him up, get so attached and love him so much as to do what's best for him (no wonder there is so much kindness in your eyes).:grouphug :Love_Icon :thumbsup

Please stick around, check out other threads, keep reading all the info here - you might end up stumbling upon an orphaned baby squirrel that will need your help (especially, living in such a beautiful area, with so many trees and greenery around;-)).:) :Love_Icon

Squirrelfriend is good at posting updates!
Thank you again! Another big hug for you::grouphug :Love_Icon :grouphug :grouphug :grouphug :Love_Icon :grouphug

[Fireweed]

NBHanna: :bowdown :thankyou :grouphug

Astra and Squirrelfriend: :bowdown :bowdown

Charlie: :Love_Icon

[astra]

Astra I put up new picks of Talula in the grey section.
:multi :multi :multi :thankyou

[Scooterzmom]

NBHanna:
Some people may think that heroes are the ones who fight and push to win and do flashy extraordinary things... I think that being a hero means being ready to go beyond one's own limits for the good of another being, sometimes quietly, without fanfare.

You grabbed your courage and went beyond the limits of your love for the good of this little baby. :grouphug You loved him, knew you would miss him and yet, you crushed your own heart to provide him with the best of care and give him the best chances at life. You are a hero. :bowdown

Astra & Squirrelfriend... :thumbsup You are 2 more heroes for going far beyond what the average person would ever bother to do for a little squirrel. WTG you two!!! :alright.gif

Big hugs to all 3 of you for this. :grouphug In the name of Charlie and all of us who love squirrels, :thankyou

[lilidukes]

NBHanna:
Some people may think that heroes are the ones who fight and push to win and do flashy extraordinary things... I think that being a hero means being ready to go beyond one's own limits for the good of another being, sometimes quietly, without fanfare.

You grabbed your courage and went beyond the limits of your love for the good of this little baby. :grouphug You loved him, knew you would miss him and yet, you crushed your own heart to provide him with the best of care and give him the best chances at life. You are a hero. :bowdown

Astra & Squirrelfriend... :thumbsup You are 2 more heroes for going far beyond what the average person would ever bother to do for a little squirrel. WTG you two!!! :alright.gif

Big hugs to all 3 of you for this. :grouphug In the name of Charlie and all of us who love squirrels, :thankyou


WOW Mitch you said it all so beautifully. I so agree with you.

HBHanna for years I called the same rehabber when I found baby squirrels. My first baby got in my house and I thought it was a rat and I freaked out. Today this same rehabber called me asking me to take 10 baby squirrels. I see more squirrels in your future too.:thumbsup :thumbsup :thumbsup

[squirrelfriend]

Well, I have him now and have bathed him. I think he may have a peeing problem. Lack of control of it that is. He has diaper rash on his crotch and belly. His left ankle or foot is probably broken. As soon as he dries I will put a cast on that. I haven't been able to inspect the hand as thouroughly being that it is close to his teeth.:D He is in the towel drying and eating pecans as I write this.

Ok, got a look at the hand. The fingers are red and slightly swollen. Fingers seem intact. Maybe just bruised. The ankle needs a cast for sure. Not sure about the hand. The fingers seem to be the only part that is swollen and they would have to stick out of the cast so not sure if it would do any good.

[Nancy in New York]

Well, I have him now and have bathed him. I think he may have a peeing problem. Lack of control of it that is. He has diaper rash on his crotch and belly. His left ankle or foot is probably broken. As soon as he dries I will put a cast on that. I haven't been able to inspect the hand as thouroughly being that it is close to his teeth.:D He is in the towel drying and eating pecans as I write this.

Ok, got a look at the hand. The fingers are red and slightly swollen. Fingers seem intact. Maybe just bruised. The ankle needs a cast for sure. Not sure about the hand. The fingers seem to be the only part that is swollen and they would have to stick out of the cast so not sure if it would do any good.
Thank you for the update squirrelfriend, he is in the best possible hands.
And thank you for ALWAYS being there for these furry little critters....:bowdown :bowdown :bowdown :bowdown

[astra]

Well, I have him now and have bathed him. I think he may have a peeing problem. Lack of control of it that is. He has diaper rash on his crotch and belly. His left ankle or foot is probably broken. As soon as he dries I will put a cast on that. I haven't been able to inspect the hand as thouroughly being that it is close to his teeth.:D He is in the towel drying and eating pecans as I write this.

Ok, got a look at the hand. The fingers are red and slightly swollen. Fingers seem intact. Maybe just bruised. The ankle needs a cast for sure. Not sure about the hand. The fingers seem to be the only part that is swollen and they would have to stick out of the cast so not sure if it would do any good.
Thanks for such a quick update, SF!:)
Looks like he has a couple of issues going on. The incontinence is, probably, the result of the trauma?...
AS for the fingers... do you think he will be using his injured hand/swollen fingers less, even if they stick out, if he had a cast on, thus allowing it to heal faster?... :thinking

[squirrelfriend]

First of all I must give credit to Astra for going to pick up Charlie. She is an angel to all squirrels. Thank you!!!!!

I have taken some photos. I got his cast one the foot. I am waiting to see his hand in action before I put the cast on yet. It looks more bruised than anything.

He does however have a large bruise and bald spot on his right hip. That would explain him not usung the tail. The bruise is a little puffy too. His right foot has some small scabs too but he uses that foot ok.

Here are his photos.

[squirrelfriend]

Oh, and I found lice eggs. No lice no fleas. Looks pretty good as far as parasites go. No infestations just a few lice eggs.

Charlie is DEFFINITLY a boy.:D

Teeth look fine.

[Tickle's Mom]

Oh my gosh! That little cast is just tooooo cute:bowdown :bowdown :bowdown

And he is handsome, handsome, handsome :Love_Icon :Love_Icon :Love_Icon :Love_Icon :Love_Icon

[Busysqrl]

Yes that cast is just darling!!! How do you keep him from chewing it off? Do the young babies not chew like that? NICE work!!! :grouphug

[JLM27]

Poor baby. But I guess it seems that his injuries are all skeletal and not internal? You probably won't know if he lost his tail reflexes for a while.
He looks like a little sweet heart. Do you think he is a release?

[astra]

Yes that cast is just darling!!! :thumbsup :grouphug :Love_Icon

[cslahaie]

Wow, I justsat and read this post from beginning to end and I think I have gone thru every emotion possible. Lucky lil Charlie, such a handsome boy, he has had such a great team of love and care!

[nbhanna]

Hey everyone, thanks for all the positive comments.:jump
I didn't disappear, I plan on sticking around but my account was deleted for some reason :( . So I made a new one with the same email and username.. hopefully this time it doesn't mess up.
I miss you Charlie ! :Love_Icon
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll34/couka_2008/OneofthelastpicswithCharlieIllmissyouuu3.jpg

[Tickle's Mom]

:wave123 :wave123 :wave123

You did the best for him from taking him in, loving him and letting him go to another. Congrats - you have just been immersed in a love like no other. :Love_Icon

Glad you're sticking around......you'll learn so much here and be ready for another rescue. It will happen ya know :D

[nbhanna]

:wave123 :wave123 :wave123

You did the best for him from taking him in, loving him and letting him go to another. Congrats - you have just been immersed in a love like no other. :Love_Icon

Glad you're sticking around......you'll learn so much here and be ready for another rescue. It will happen ya know :D

Thanks so much :) Hopefully this account get activated this time. And I hope it will happen, it feels great helping out an animal in need.

[Tickle's Mom]

Thanks so much :) Hopefully this account get activated this time. And I hope it will happen, it feels great helping out an animal in need.

:grouphug :grouphug :Love_Icon :Love_Icon :grouphug :grouphug

[astra]

Hey everyone, thanks for all the positive comments.:jump
I didn't disappear, I plan on sticking around but my account was deleted for some reason :( . So I made a new one with the same email and username.. hopefully this time it doesn't mess up.
I miss you Charlie ! :Love_Icon

phew.:thumbsup good. a few of us here got rather concerned that you disappeared:shakehead :grouphug :)

[Scooterzmom]

Charlie is such a handsome baby boy. That pic of you both will make a wonderful memory for you :) I'm so glad he's in competent loving hands - sounds like he did need a lot of help. NBHannah I still say you did a most wonderful thing handing him over. I admire you for being this unselfish. :bowdown :grouphug

Super job Squirrelfriend... love that little cast :bowdown Astra, super devoted, wouldn't have happened without you. :bowdown

Ahhh *sigh...... How I love a nice heart warming story :D

[island rehabber]

nbhanna, glad you're back! I have contacted tech support about what happened but it's still unclear. Anyway, welcome back! :)

[nbhanna]

Thanks so much guys ! I was pretty upset when I couldn't get back on my account hehe, i love you all :D

[Nancy in New York]

Thanks so much guys ! I was pretty upset when I couldn't get back on my account hehe, i love you all :D

I love that photo of you and little Charlie, he looks right at home with you. You're the absolute best!!!!!!! :Love_Icon :grouphug :Love_Icon

[squirrelfriend]

Great picture of you and Charlie. He is fine and swearing at me this morning already.

I do not know at this point if he is a releasable. We'll have to wait and see for that. I think his hand will be fine. He puts weight on it a little but does not grasp with it much. I think it is badly bruised possibly minor fractures in the fingers but nothing is out of place. Fingers are all straight.

I will take more pictures later today and post them.

[Nancy in New York]

Great picture of you and Charlie. He is fine and swearing at me this morning already.

I do not know at this point if he is a releasable. We'll have to wait and see for that. I think his hand will be fine. He puts weight on it a little but does not grasp with it much. I think it is badly bruised possibly minor fractures in the fingers but nothing is out of place. Fingers are all straight.

I will take more pictures later today and post them.

Wonderful update....and we get more pictures too later....:alright.gif :alright.gif
squirrelfriend, you know that you have my heart....you are always, always there for these little ones....:bowdown :bowdown :bowdown :Love_Icon :grouphug :Love_Icon
and astra....you are single handedly Canada's squirrel train.....:bowdown :bowdown :bowdown :Love_Icon :grouphug :Love_Icon

[astra]

squirrelfriend, you know that you have my heart....you are always, always there for these little ones....:bowdown :bowdown :bowdown :Love_Icon :grouphug :Love_Icon:bowdown :grouphug :Love_Icon



and astra....you are single handedly Canada's squirrel train.....:bowdown :bowdown :bowdown :Love_Icon :grouphug :Love_Icon
:rotfl :rotfl :rotfl :rotfl :rotfl :rotfl :rotfl :rolf :rolf :rolf :rolf :rolf :rolf :rolf :grouphug :Love_Icon

[Busysqrl]

That's great news about little Charlie! Yes we need more pics please :D

NBHanna - you have been bitten by the squirrel bug now :D You should be prepared with syringes and some basics. Hopefully the next time you will get just a orphaned baby that's a little easier to handle without all the medical issues. They are such a wonderful experience and with your love for animals, you'll be a natural at it. You put Charlie's needs above your own to give him up to someone who's experienced with those types of severe injuries. Many people are selfish and keep the squirrel only to have the squirrel die because they just don't know what they don't know. Even if getting expert help from the wonderful rehabbers here, it's just almost impossible for the inexperienced to successfully rehab a squirrel with those severe of injuries. Goodness knows, it's hard enough for those who do have experience at it. Nice work honey :grouphug

Astra - well what can we say about you :grouphug :grouphug :grouphug What a fabulous thing you did. Nancy told me you once made a 12 hour round trip to save a squirrel. WHAT???!!! YOU ROCK!!!!!

Squirrelfriend - :thankyou :thankyou :thankyou for all you are doing for this little one and the great updates. You are just FABULOUS!!!! I'll be following this thread right along to see Charlie's progress :grouphug :grouphug :grouphug :grouphug

[cslahaie]

I love this thread its such a great story of wonderful caring people doing whats right! You all are rockstars in my book!!!!!!!!!

:grouphug :grouphug :wott :jump :bowdown :bowdown

[astra]

Astra - well what can we say about you :grouphug :grouphug :grouphug What a fabulous thing you did. Nancy told me you once made a 12 hour round trip to save a squirrel. WHAT???!!! YOU ROCK!!!!!


Busy, I must have been bitten by that squirrel bug, you know :) :thankyou :grouphug
what won't one do for a squirrel?... for instance, some commit to caring for a squirrel with broken back...:grouphug :Love_Icon :grouphug

[squirrelfriend]

I took some more photos. Here is one. I will post more after this one. I just wanted to point out on this one that you can see that his afflicted hand is not swollen. The toes are bruised looking though. The toes on his right foot (one not in cast) has bruised toes. He uses that foot fine though so it must just be bruising. He will put weight on his bad hand but not grasp with it. I really don't think that it is broken but just badly bruised. There is a bit of fur missing from the knuckles on that hand. I don't know if there is broken skin or not. If there is it is minimal. Both feet have small scabs. The one in the cast has a little bit bigger of a scab. No infection an any scabs. There are also a few tiny scabs on the bridge of his nose. I don't think there is a head injury.

He does pee on himself. Not sure if there is a bladder problem or if he just doesn't get out of the way of his pee because of injuries. I'll know more an that one as his leg gets better. If he is still doing that after his leg is healed then he deffinitly has a problem.

He really likes it if you hold the food for him. It is a little intimidating being so close to his mouth with a walnut half.:D

He is a real sweety. I really think this guys should recover. I mean that he will live. As far as releasability, we will have to see how he heals.

[squirrelfriend]

Here's a few more. I don't know if I will get any more done today. It is getting towards my bed time. I work nights. I am sure I will be posting more over the weekend.

[squirrelfriend]

oh, check out how quickly his bruise is fading on that bald spot! This is great. there is still some fluid retained under it but not much. It was much darker yesterday.

[squirrelfriend]

Yesterdays bruise and todays. much better!

[Nancy in New York]

Well this is just a picture of contentment if I ever saw one.:bowdown :Love_Icon
Yes, the difference in the bruise is huge for one day....you really are amazing squirrelfriend...:Love_Icon

http://i673.photobucket.com/albums/vv95/nancym518/Babies%202010/00720copy1.jpghttp://i673.photobucket.com/albums/vv95/nancym518/Babies%202010/00920copy2.jpg

edit...You beat me to it....:rotfl

[squirrelfriend]

I don't think I have anything to do with the bruise but it does show that he is a fast healer. That is certainly good news. Hopefully his foot heals fast too!

[squirrelfriend]

Another few pics.

[astra]

Well this is just a picture of contentment if I ever saw one.:bowdown :Love_Icon
[/SIZE]
Oh, he does look so content, so calm, so safe and relaxed, especially, in his first pic, sort of leisurely reclining, with his little feetsies to the sides :Love_Icon :)
PS actually, he is smilling in the last two pics ;-)

[Nancy in New York]

Oh, he does look so content, so calm, so safe and relaxed, especially, in his first pic, sort of leisurely reclining, with his little feetsies to the sides :Love_Icon :)
PS actually, he is smilling in the last two pics ;-)

He is smiling isn't he! :rotfl
Look at the red on his side....wonder if he is part Jeffrey...:thinking :dono

[cslahaie]

What a sweet baby! Lookin good!!! :jump

[Busysqrl]

Awwww, he does look SO cute :Love_Icon He's just all snuggled in munching on his walnuts. WOW, that bruise does look great. His system is working great to dissolve that bruise so quickly. I look forward to more wonderful pictures of this little guy. :thankyou :thankyou for all the wonderful care and love you're providing for this precious little soul :grouphug :grouphug :grouphug

[Scooterzmom]

WOW! Amazing job SF!!!!!! :bowdown You and Astra make me so proud as a canuck :D... we may be few and far between up here, sort of on our own but it's nice to know somebody up here too is there for them. Great job!


Charlie is a thief of hearts... he sure has stolen mine :Love_Icon :Love_Icon

Speanking of canucks... has anyone heard from Kristal lately? I've been trying to reach her since Tuesday, in vain. I'm starting to worry.

[Fireweed]

Yes, you guys rock! :brock Where's the Maple Leaf smiley?! Woot!

Astra Squirrel TRAin. :D :thumbsup

Squirrelfriend...love the weetle cast! Good job! :thumbsup

nbhanna: Sweeet picture of you two! :)

[Nancy in New York]

Yes, you guys rock! :brock Where's the Maple Leaf smiley?! Woot!
http://i673.photobucket.com/albums/vv95/nancym518/Babies%202010/4119_MapleLeafSmiley.gif

[Busysqrl]

Busy, I must have been bitten by that squirrel bug, you know :) :thankyou :grouphug
what won't one do for a squirrel?... for instance, some commit to caring for a squirrel with broken back...:grouphug :Love_Icon :grouphug
:Love_Icon
:grouphug

[squirrelfriend]

Yesterday when I was going to sleep I was petting him and investigating at the same time. I must add that he takes his pettings like a man.:D In my investigations I did find a more serious injury. Not life threatening, I don't think but more painfull. I had checked his tail on the first day and found no breaks. I remembered her saying that he doesn't use the tail. Yesterday I did the pinch test to the tail with no reaction what so ever. i investigated a little further up the tail and found a break about a centimeter or so below the hip bones. So it is part of the tail but within the body still. That would deffinitly effect the tail. I don't think he will ever have use of it again since it has no feeling. I hope that there is no break in the hips themselves. I am just concerned about the dragging leg.

[Nancy in New York]

Yesterday when I was going to sleep I was petting him and investigating at the same time. I must add that he takes his pettings like a man.:D In my investigations I did find a more serious injury. Not life threatening, I don't think but more painfull. I had checked his tail on the first day and found no breaks. I remembered her saying that he doesn't use the tail. Yesterday I did the pinch test to the tail with no reaction what so ever. i investigated a little further up the tail and found a break about a centimeter or so below the hip bones. So it is part of the tail but within the body still. That would deffinitly effect the tail. I don't think he will ever have use of it again since it has no feeling. I hope that there is no break in the hips themselves. I am just concerned about the dragging leg.

Awe, this is sad news for the little one. How will you know if there is a break in the hips? Would it just be time that will tell that? Does he need pain meds? Poor little peanut...I sure hope that it is only the tail that is effected...:Love_Icon

[squirrelfriend]

I'm not sure if the leg is affected or not.
Can anybody tell me what to do for diaper rash?
It's really blistered up and nasty. It looks very painful.

[Nancy in New York]

I'm not sure if the leg is affected or not.
Can anybody tell me what to do for diaper rash?
It's really blistered up and nasty. It looks very painful.

I've heard that the best thing out there is Silvadene, but this is by prescription. Do you have a vet that will give this to you? It's suppose to take it away in one day, excellent stuff...:thumbsup
Also some people give baths to their little ones with lavendar baby wash. You could also use some sort of baby wipes on him with no alcohol.
Try some corn starch too if you can't get the Silvadene right away.

[Chickenlegs]

Desinex--diaper ointment. I had a little guy with no use of his back legs. He peed on himself and even tho I kept him rinsed off he got a bad rash. Desinex fer sure. It coats the skin and soothes raw areas--and it's in every drug store. It's safe for human babies and my little guy did just fine (till he escaped and dragged himself up a tree) I never saw him again. Broke my heart.

[stepnstone]

Desinex--diaper ointment. I had a little guy with no use of his back legs. He peed on himself and even tho I kept him rinsed off he got a bad rash. Desinex fer sure. It coats the skin and soothes raw areas--and it's in every drug store. It's safe for human babies and my little guy did just fine (till he escaped and dragged himself up a tree) I never saw him again. Broke my heart.

How alful! Poor little guy! :shakehead
I would have had to have been up that tree too like a raccoon chased by hounds.

[Busysqrl]

Awwww, poor baby. I'm so sorry about his tail. I hope he's not in any pain now although it must have hurt when it happened.

Regarding the urine or fecal scald . . .yes I've heard Silvadene is the best too. Magnus just got over a case of urine scald. We didn't have any Silvadene, so we used a mild Chlorhexidine wash and then a thin film of neosporin. If you don't have any chlorhexidine, you could just use water. I'd be careful of human diaper rash preparations. They often contain zinc oxide, which if ingested would not be good.

[lilidukes]

I agree with Busy Brighteyes just had scald and silvadene cleared it up in less than 2 days.

squirrelfriend you are doing a fabulous job with Charlie:thumbsup

[Chickenlegs]

Ouick note on the Desinex. It does contain zinc oxide and I wouldn't use it for a squirrel who would lick him/her self, but for the little babies without use of their back legs--where they can't get to the areas treated--it's great--specially if you can't get Silvadene. My sweetie was going to be permanently disabled and his skin needed to be coated 24/7. Sorry--I should have clarified. And yeah, Stepnstone--I couldn't get up the tree--it's straight up--but I camped out at the base for 12 hours looking for my boy and for days after. The half of him that worked worked way too well. I watched for that baby for months. I learned a VERY valuable lesson--a disabled squirrel is still a squirrel and can move FAST and unexpectedly. Thank you for taking such good care of Charlie. Looks like he knows somebody loves him.

[Chickenlegs]

I am SO stupid!!!! It's DESITIN! That's what happens when yur brain goes tharn. Don't know if anybody else has any experience with it but it sure was a blessing for my baby.

[Bill]

When we got Simon last September his back legs did not work and he had a very bad urine rash, we cleaned him up and took him to our vet who has seen many of our squirrels in the past and he advised A&D ointment mixed with neosporin, it cleared him up in a few days. He was not hand raised so it took a little time for him to allow us to hold and rub him, now he will follow me to the door and loves to go buy buy with us and the two dogs. Good luck with the little guy, but watch that he does not try and chew his tail and legs, we started using YUK anti-lick gel from Chris's Squirrel.

[squirrelfriend]

I got the Desitin and put it on. He doesn't clean himself down there at all. He seems a little more retfull and comfortable now. I will keep posting on his progress. He had such bad blistering all over his belly and crotch.

I was changing his cast because it got peed on and I am no longer sure that the leg is broken. Better safe than sorry I put a new one on. It seems more that he is not using it because of the spine injury below the hip bone. The leg has feeling in it. He just doesn't use it.

Otherwise he is doing ok. I think he is using his left hand a tiny bit more.

[squirrelfriend]

I had one that used to chew off paralised parts too. I had to put casts on her feet to save her toes and on her tail too.

[lilidukes]

:wave123 squirrelfriend

Pointy Tail sent me this link for Brighteyes when she had urine scald. I did get some silvadene first but I am going to order some of this soon.

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/31BP-KuNWML._SL500_AA300_.jpg


:grouphug :grouphug :grouphug :grouphug :grouphug

[squirrelfriend]

Chloramphenicol

My friend has a bit of this med left over from when her rat went to the vet last week. Would this help Charlie without any complications? If so how much should be given per gram of squirrel?

[Busysqrl]

Well that's great news to hear Charlie's leg may not be broken :jump I can't imagine putting a cast on a squirrel's leg. You should have someone video you doing it. That' would be great instruction :thumbsup I hope Charlie continues to improve :grouphug

[nbhanna]

I was just reading the updates on here of Charlie - poor little guy :(
Let him know I miss him & love him lots ! :D I hope he recovers well. :Love_Icon

& everyone my account is finally active ! :D now I can actually message people and such haha. :flash3

[squirrelfriend]

I will remind him that you love him lots and miss him greatly but I am sure he knows that he is loved by you. He would not be alive today if you had not stopped to pick him up. Thank you for saving this wonderful little guy. He is such a sweety ........and so are you. this world needs more people like you.

[squirrelfriend]

I just wanted to add that his rash looks a 100 times better! Wow! That Desitin worked great. Hard to wash off though.

[Nancy in New York]

I just wanted to add that his rash looks a 100 times better! Wow! That Desitin worked great. Hard to wash off though.

Thrilled that he his rash is looking so much better, I bet he is relieved!!!!:thumbsup

[Chickenlegs]

I just wanted to add that his rash looks a 100 times better! Wow! That Desitin worked great. Hard to wash off though.

It's not made to wash off. If it goes on clean dry skin it'll keep that skin clean and dry till it gradually wears off. If you need to get it off try coconut oil. I use Desitin on my cats ears in the summer--keeps mosquitoes at bay. Charlie is blessed to have you caring for him. I hope nature works her magic and he gets back on his sweet little feet. Till then, give him snoozles for me and everybody who sends love and prayers.

[squirrelfriend]

Thanks for the info. I thought I had to clean it off to apply a new layer. That makes it easier.

[Chickenlegs]

I'd wipe his skin down but don't have to clean all the ointment off--that stuff is made to stick on baby butts. If he doesn't regain use of his legs he may have to learn to apply the stuff himself. I'm hoping he'll get back at least some of the feeling--enough to enjoy some climbing--even if it's limited. Like I said earlier tho--just cause his back legs don't work he's still strong and can get up a tree with just the strength of the front part of his body. After he's healed what ever was broken, might want to try some physical therapy to keep his muscles supple and strong. I think there's threads about folks who have used therapy with good results. GO CHARLIE! GO!!!!!!!!!

[squirrelfriend]

He has feeling in the leg just not the tail. I had him walking a little bit yesterday. I had put him down after washing him and he wandered around a little bit. He used the leg a little bit but not much. I think it will heal to where he can get around. I just don't know how well he will be able to. He will probably not be a releasable. He is always welcome here though.

[Nancy in New York]

I just don't know how well he will be able to. He will probably not be a releasable. He is always welcome here though.

squirrelfriend, you always open your heart and your home to these little critical squirrels, and offer a forever home for them as well.
You are such a remarkable person. There aren't many who would make the commitment like you do, and on top of taking care of these precious little squirrels you work a full time job.....at NIGHT!
Amazing....:bowdown :bowdown

[Chickenlegs]

Folks like you give me faith in the goodness of the human race. Kissies on Charlie. I'm SO glad he's doing better and better.

[cslahaie]

Agreed!!

[nbhanna]

I was told i wouldn't have to give Charlie up.. now I barely get to hear about him, I only see what people post on here...

[squirrelfriend]

Charlie is doing great!! He is getting a little nore feisty which means he feels a little better. He has a little more mobility. His hand no longer looks bruised. He still drags his leg but I have seen him put weight on it a couple of times. His rash has disapeared. I want to get more pictures soon. Hopefully today.

[squirrelfriend]

Sorry about the delay nbhanna. Here are some pics that I just took of him before his morning bath.

Note that he is using both "hands" now. He uses the back leg a little too. In the one pic I thought that he was cleaning his foot. Afterwards his one toe was a little bloody. I hope he doesn't start chewing his foot. I'll have to put it back in a cast if he does. It is strange that he would do that though since he does have feeling in it. I have only had that happen when they don't have feeling in it.

What a charismatic handsom boy, huh?

Any single lady squirrels out there interested in a handsome batchelor?:D

Single grey male seeking female. not picky about color. Black or grey is fine. Not prejudiced. Have my own house with live in maid, chef, doctor and all around servant. Please inquire within if interested.

:D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D

[Nancy in New York]

Oh what a gorgeous little one he is. He is really too darned cute, gorgeous coloring and seems to love the camera.
You being as busy as you are.....I'm thrilled to see pictures again of little Charlie. You're doing wonderful with this little one...:bowdown :Love_Icon
Love the looking for love want ad....:rotfl :rotfl

[BeeFernandez22]

Single grey male seeking female. not picky about color. Black or grey is fine. Not prejudiced. Have my own house with live in maid, chef, doctor and all around servant. Please inquire within if interested.

:D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D

Hahahaha.... Too funny. This literally made me laugh out loud. (And I'm at work, so not only am I the crazy squirrel chick, now I'm gonna be the crazy chick who laughs out loud to herself in her cubical.. Greaaaattttttt... haha!!) He sure is handsome! Looks like he is smiling in a couple of his pictures!!

[SammysMom]

He is quite a "fluffy-hottie"! What a handsome guy he is. You guys have sure brought him around to a good place. Maybe "phantom itching"? Similar to when a person has an amputation? :thumbsup

[Chickenlegs]

Oh CHARLIE! You are one sweet little dude. Stop chewing yur feets!

[squirrelfriend]

Well, Charlie is a bad boy. When I got home this morning I went in to feed and check on him. There was blood around his mouth. I wasn't 100% possitive that he was chewing his foot. I thought it might have been a coincidence that he had a small cut on his foot yesterday. Well, today he has chewed it a little more. He seems to have been targeting the toenail and toe. I put a cast on that foot to prevent him from chewing it. Hopefully it works. If he stops now I can save the toe.

[squirrelfriend]

I may have to colar him. He is already trying to chew the cast. At least I don't have to put the cream on him any more. He is able to clean himself so he won't get diaper rash any more. If I put the colar on I will have to start putting the cream on again. I wonder why he is chewing his foot. He has feeling in it. I thought they only did that if they couldn't feel it.

This behaviour is not going to help him get chicks. foot chewing usually turns girls off. Maybe he has a foot fetish?:D

[Chickenlegs]

Oh good grief! CHARLIE! Maybe you should put some "Thum" on the cast so he associates that foot with disgusting taste. It's the stuff you put on kids thumbs to keep em from sucking them. Don't let it touch broken skin tho--stuff burns like all get out if it gets in a cut. I think somebody suggested it as a remedy to penie sucking with the little ones. All I could think is OWIE! Thumb on sensitive parts!

[squirrelfriend]

My husband came up with a great idea! We put a little pill vial on the end of his cast and taped it on there good. He is going to drill some holes in some other ones for me to change this one with. That will make it so they breathe a bit. They are not actually for pills. Never used for that. He actually buys them empty and uses it for baby tarantulas. That is what you house the slings (spiderlings) in.

I tried the colar but he got it off in 2 seconds flat. He is grumbling in his cage right now. I will have to sleep with him right next to me on the bed so that I can make sure that he doesn't chew his foot. I'll wake up to the sound of him chewing on that vial. I just hope he behaves when I go to work tonight.

[Busysqrl]

That is wonderful he's doing so well, but what a little stinker he is to chew his foot like that. It must feel weird to him for him to chew on it like that. Maybe it's tinglely? Poor baby. I hope that stops soon and he doesn't continue to chew. Those pictures are just darling! That little sweet face looking right at the camera! What a little sweetie pea he is :grouphug

[Chickenlegs]

UGH! SPIDERS!!!!!!!! Great idea about the pill bottle tho. Live long and prosper little terantulas--waaaaaay over yonder. Love you Charlie. BEHAVE!

[Scooterzmom]

I wonder if maybe that foot might feel like it's asleep, tingly or itchy because it's healing. I know that when I had a cast on my foot sometimes my toes felt like they were asleep and I had to massage them.

[squirrelfriend]

Well, he was a good boy last night. He didn't chew at his foot. I had to give him a bath this morning to soak his foot. I filled the tub with about an inch of water and let him stand in it. At first he wasn't that happy about it but then he started drinking the bath water. He is always a thirsty boy. After he was finished drinking his bath water he was angry again.

He is so funny with getting his casts. Usually I have to REALLY restrain them to do this. He will just sit there and be patient. As long as I cover his eyes with a cloth he doesn't argue at all.

I was feeling his foot and it seems that his problem might be across the top of his foot/ankle. This is where the cut was. I don't know if there is breakage in there or it is scar tissue from the cut. Either way it is probably itchy from the healing. Perhaps that is why he is chewing at it.

[Chickenlegs]

Can you put some Benadryl (the topical stuff) or something--Cortisone cream maybe (don't know if that's good for squirrels) on his foot under the cast so his foot won't itch? Poor Charlie--the indignity of a bath and then a cast! Mom's can be so mean when they don't let you chew yur foot off!

[squirrelfriend]

Benedryl, isn't that cough syrup? Cortizone cream I have for myself. Is it ok for squirrels? Does anybody know about this?

So far so good on the chewing though. He hasn't gotten to his foot and it has healed. The chewed spot that is. He tries to chew the cast but I keep replacing it so he has to start over. He has stopped peeing on himself so I guess he has gotten control of his bladder again. No more baths for now. I am sure he is happy about that at least.

[winky2]

Why is this squirrel wearing a splint? Does he have a fracture or just nerve damage? Sorry if I missed where a fracture was mentioned but I can't find it anywhere. I'm so confused:dono

[Chickenlegs]

Benedryl, isn't that cough syrup? Cortizone cream I have for myself. Is it ok for squirrels? Does anybody know about this

there's a topical Benadryl that's fabulous for people itches--spray on or gel. I think it's better than Cortizone cream--(and I don't know about Cortizone on Squirrels) but Benadryl has been mentioned here so I'd think a topical application would be OK--barring allergy. Anybody know?

[squirrelfriend]

would that work for a healing break though? That is a deep itch if he's got one, not a skin one. The skin is fine. His diaper rash cleared right up and he is no longer peeing on himself. He's got control of his bladder again.

[squirrelfriend]

Why is this squirrel wearing a splint? Does he have a fracture or just nerve damage? Sorry if I missed where a fracture was mentioned but I can't find it anywhere. I'm so confused:dono

I think that he might have a break on the top of his foot where it connects to the ankle. He is also trying to chew off his foot due to possible tingling. He has feeling in the foot. The cast prevents him from getting at his foot and c hewing off his toes.

[Nancy in New York]

I think that he might have a break on the top of his foot where it connects to the ankle. He is also trying to chew off his foot due to possible tingling. He has feeling in the foot. The cast prevents him from getting at his foot and c hewing off his toes.

You're the best!!!!! :Love_Icon :grouphug :Love_Icon

[Nancy in New York]

I was told i wouldn't have to give Charlie up.. now I barely get to hear about him, I only see what people post on here...

136725 Hope you saw the pictures posted 5 days ago....:)
He's adorable!!!!!!!

[squirrelfriend]

You're the best!!!!! :Love_Icon :grouphug :Love_Icon

Right back atcha! :Love_Icon :grouphug :Love_Icon

[Chickenlegs]

Ohmygosh! Charlie's trying to chew off his whole foot!!!!!! Poor little guy. Sure am glad you have the expertise to keep him away from his parts! I guess time is the best healer. If he'll just cooperate till Ma Nature makes him all better!

[crazy4squirrels]

Can you put an e-collar on him?

[squirrelfriend]

Can you put an e-collar on him?

That thing took him a whole 2 seconds to get off. I don't want it to be any tighter or it would probably choke him.

[Nancy in New York]

That thing took him a whole 2 seconds to get off. I don't want it to be any tighter or it would probably choke him.

Go to Charley Chuckles thread and see what Abby and her hubby came up with so that little Charlie wouldn't chew....of course he had a different chewing problem....but if your little one can't reach the spot....this may work:) :Love_Icon I'm actually thinking that perhaps he won't be able to bend to reach the foot....:dono
http://thesquirrelboard.com/forums/showthread.php?t=26617 go to page 2 and you will see lots of photos....

[squirrelfriend]

Here are some new photos of Charlie. He wasn't too happy with his morning inspection and cast change. His foot/ankle seems to have healed. His toe is swollen from the previous chewing session. It is healing though. He is not fond of the paparazzi. He kept trying to dig into the towel.

[squirrelfriend]

one last one. He says enough is enough. I am going back into my towel.

[Jackie in Tampa]

:jump he looks great!

[squirrelfriend]

Note that he had grey fur on his front paws when I first got him. It looks like he is going with spring colors and going with orange gloves this season.

[Chickenlegs]

Oh Charlie you're SUCH a handsome boy! Now mind mama and keep yur chompers off yur feets. He looks so GOOD! He has no idea he has such a bunch of groupies.

[Scooterzmom]

Charlie you're just a darling little love bug :Love_Icon You be a good boy and get yourself all better now... we want to see you run and play soon. :Love_Icon :Love_Icon SF you have done a tremendous job with this baby!!! :bowdown
Note: Don't we have an icon for kisses somewhere? :) This site definitely would need a KISSY icon :D

[Busysqrl]

He does look wonderful. Glad to hear his foot has healed. What a little QT he is. You've just done a marvelous job with him :grouphug :grouphug :grouphug

[squirrelfriend]

think his tail and hip have set too. Before if pressed on that area it would click and creak. Now it seems more stable and no noise. Hopefully he is walking normal again.

[squirrelfriend]

I just wanted to update that Charlie is cast free for 3 days now and is not chewing his foot. He puts more weight on it but it still moves funny. It may be from the muscles atrophying because of the cast. That is why I wanted to try to keep it off if possible so that he could get some muscle tone back in it.

He still swears at me a lot. He has quite the attitude but this is good. It means that he has more energy. He will however stop swearing at me long enough to take treats. Shameless.:shakehead :D

[SammysMom]

So good to hear!!!:thumbsup

[Chickenlegs]

In Charlie's case, we accept shameless as long as there's no chewing. Will he be able to go out again? If so he'll need a helmet and and body armor

[squirrelfriend]

I took these photos a couple of days ago. He is puting more weight on his foot. Still walks funny though. His hip will take a while to heal. I have no way of knowing how his hip set so we will have to wait and see. He will most likely always walk funny. He is cute though. Nothing will change that.

[nbhanna]

Good to see Charlie looking a lot better then the day I found him ! :crazy
Earlier this week my mom took a baby bunny off a cat & now I'm looking after it :) it's doing really well too.

[astra]

I took these photos a couple of days ago. He is puting more weight on his foot. Still walks funny though. His hip will take a while to heal. I have no way of knowing how his hip set so we will have to wait and see. He will most likely always walk funny. He is cute though. Nothing will change that.
Oh, isn't he!!!!:Love_Icon :)

[Twi_prime]

Hi NBHannah, Astra, Squirrelfriend and all involved. I'm so glad you guys have made it possible for Charlie to be living today. He's a beautiful boy. :)

[Ethics]

squirrelfriend I don't know how to contact you because my private messages are disabled for some reason but I just heard a squirrel making alot of noise outside so I went out on my balcony and there was a squirrel near the top of the roof, it looked like it could not come down. It tried moving along the top of the brick wall but slipped and fell 3 stories.

He is now huddled in the corner, I'm not sure what his injuries are but he is definitely alive.

I'm afraid to go near him...

I'm not sure what will happen to him but I'm located at

7230 Darcel Ave. Mississauga Ontario L4T3T6

Mario

[CritterMom]

Sent one for you:thumbsup

Can you tip something over him and gather him up and bring inside where nothing can hurt him further?

[squirrelfriend]

Sorry, I just got this now. Are you still on?

[Jackie in Tampa]

maybe the pms are working now...
i hope you are able to help!!!!:grouphug

[squirrelfriend]

I drove down there but could not find anything. I was hoping it was a house. It is an apt complex. That drop he described would be pretty high. Mario, if you come on here and read this please catch the guy and put him in a box or cage and pm me right away.

[squirrelfriend]

His pm's are still not working. I tried sending one. I want to give him my # but do not want to post it in a forum.

[astra]

I drove down there but could not find anything. I was hoping it was a house. It is an apt complex. That drop he described would be pretty high. Mario, if you come on here and read this please catch the guy and put him in a box or cage and pm me right away.
:wave123 Hi Mario,

I am here in Toronto, too and might be able to come if SF can't (she has a very specific work schedule).
I could come after 5pm (when I get off work myself) and bring him to her.

As you can see, she came and didn't see him anywhere. Did you end up taking him inside?...

Please let us know.
You could also e-mail me ad_astra81@hotmail.com since your private messages might not be active yet.

I just need to know for sure that you still have him and to confirm how I could find/meet with you to take him.

Thanks,
A:thankyou

[squirrelfriend]

When I went to the apt building I did not look under the wooden skids that were used as a back porch on some apts. I didn't want people to get mad at me and think that I was up to something. I tried to glance from a distance though.

[squirrelfriend]

Here are some photos of Charlie that I just took moments ago. He is doing a fine job of showing me his teeth and clicking them at me. He is very good at that. He is also good at "Hmmmm Hmmmmm Hmmmm" ing anybody that walks past his cage.:D

It seems that he has diaper rashed himself again. Back to medicating him again.

He uses his leg a little more yet but is still no where near having a normal gait.

[spykitten01]

Charlies lookin good! I LOVE that open mouth pic! What a cute, sassy boy!