please help asap

[crystal timber]

i have a squirrel named timber i have had for almost 2 years i had him from about 3 days old and bottle fed him never able to release him he had a bruise on his head from the fall from the tree and never ended up growing as big as he should have for his age . last night he got a hold of a wire by reaching out of his cage and grabbing it he was electrocuted now he isnt moving his back legs or tail i beleive he is paralyzed if i bring him to a vet or wildlife they will put him to sleep where i live. he has eaten and drank water today and pooped i want to help him soooo bad please help me. any vets that i can drive to for xrays and help my email is shawncrystalglassey@gmail.com

[rozdow]

I'd keep him warm and limit his mobility. If you do the "pinch test" does he feel pain?

[Nancy in New York]

Here is an excellent link discussing the electrocution of a squirrel.
http://thesquirrelboard.com/forums/showthread.php?t=21302&highlight=electrocuted

[crystal timber]

i pinched the end of his tail and have been rubbing hid feet and legs and he doesnt seem to be feeling anything

[rozdow]

Why do you want x-rays? Do you think he injured himslef after getting zapped?

[crystal timber]

i tried to click the link on the electrocution and it said i do not have permission to access i dont know why iam new to this?

[vettechmarie]

i have a squirrel named timber i have had for almost 2 years i had him from about 3 days old and bottle fed him never able to release him he had a bruise on his head from the fall from the tree and never ended up growing as big as he should have for his age . last night he got a hold of a wire by reaching out of his cage and grabbing it he was electrocuted now he isnt moving his back legs or tail i beleive he is paralyzed if i bring him to a vet or wildlife they will put him to sleep where i live. he has eaten and drank water today and pooped i want to help him soooo bad please help me. any vets that i can drive to for xrays and help my email is shawncrystalglassey@gmail.com



Hi Crystal. First off: you said he is pooping. Is he going normally? i.e. does he seem to have what we call "muscle tone" in his anus? Meaning does he seem to have control of his bowel movements or is he just going uncontrollably?

Same goes for urinating. Is he urinating normally or at all?

Most of my experience is with dogs and cats that are paralyzed. If he has no anal tone or is not urinating properly he very well could be paralyzed. But if he is defecating normally then there is a good chance he could recover mobility.

Unfortunately x-rays will not really show if he is paralyzed or not.

It is important to keep a very close eye on him and monitor his movements. If he seems to be getting better then it is possible the electric shock just made his muscles freeze up for a little while. How long ago did he get schocked?

I know this might seem mean but it is neccessary: try taking some tweezers and gently pinch the skin around his legs, back, and tail. What you need to look for is a "jump" or movement of his skin in reaction to the pinch. If there is no reaction to the pinch try to isolate where the reaction stops. i.e. pinch down his back until he doesnt react. This will not hurt him.


Give us updates and hopefully someone will be along soon to help you more.

[crystal timber]

x rays to c if he has a broken back i didnt see it happen only saw the wirei dont know if he got hurt but his back legs and tail seem paralyzed and im not sure what else to do

[rozdow]

check your gmail!

[mpetys]

check your gmail!

were you able to send her the electrocution thread to read? I tried to post it here but it was too long to post.

Michele

[Wonkawillie]

Crystal, as one other person said, test for feeling or reaction in his back and legs. You can even use a sewing needly or pin. If you take this sharp object and just kind of gently drag it in the fur on the skin surface, you will usually get that " wincing" of the skin. Almost like if you drag a sharp pencil along a dogs back you will get that same reaction. They kind of shift the skin, as it kind of gives an annoying tickle.
Your squirrel might just have a lot of swelling around the spinal cord. No friends that are vet techs, that could get their hands on the steriods?
Also, when you get electrocuted, the electricity enters the body from the electric cord, and it has to exit the body. The this squirrel have any exit wounds? I have seen toes blasted off from electrocution.
If you have no external wounds, the shock may have been mild and hopefully the squirrel will recover from the swelling.
Make sure he is eating and drinking, as they can dehydrate from this as well.
Best of luck with this.

[vettechmarie]

x rays to c if he has a broken back i didnt see it happen only saw the wirei dont know if he got hurt but his back legs and tail seem paralyzed and im not sure what else to do


Is there a possibility he was not electrocuted but hurt himself a different way?

Hang in there hun.:grouphug

[Jackie in Tampa]

I had Marley during both threads, but not until 4 days after his burns/electrocution.

sigh...all I can advise is quiet, small cage for now, until it is known what his statis is. Hydration is the most important advise...trauma creates weeping whether internal or external...hydrate!..
If he is paralysed , he needs to be in small contained cage well padded...
Do you see any injuries? boo boos? wounds? exit wound?
Electrocution can damage the heart...symptoms may not show for 3 weeks...he needs a very calm quiet rehab. Nutrition is also key, make sure he eats healthy foods.
keep us in the loop...
if you can find some metacam or tramadol, that will give some pain aide.
If not pediatric benedryl can be used also.
:grouphug

[rozdow]

I sent it, I assume it went through :dono

[lilidukes]

I sent you some vet info via e-mail.

Wishing you both a speedy recovery:grouphug :grouphug :grouphug

[missPixy]

hi, I live in Rhode Island too and I know what you mean about the rehabbers in this state~~ they will euthanize animals they deem unable to live in the wild although they will also not euthanize if one of the rehabbers wants to raise the wild as their own~~

that said, if you don't have metacam or tramadol, there is a vet in RI I know who may very well "look the other way" in this situation and give you the meds you need. PM me so I can give you the info without worry. she is awesome, had her own squirrel for 17 years. she absolutely adores squirrels and I'm sure would help you. I saw a man with a giant crow in her office and I know for a fact crows are considered not pets in this state.

take care and please PM me for info.
xo

[mpetys]

I sent it, I assume it went through :dono

Good. I tried to access her profile to either PM her or to send via email but for some reason, I did not have access to that. I don't really understand the system we have here!

Michele

[crystal timber]

i tried to pm also seeing i just signed up today maybe i did it wrong! i would really like the info from miss pixie in ri

[CritterMom]

Crystal, can you give us your email address so we can contact you off the board? It takes a while before new members get rights to everything on the board.

[Jackie in Tampa]

was the cord chewed?

[4skwerlz]

Are you certain he chewed the cord?

Could this be MBD?

Just checking....

[crystal timber]

my email is shawncrystalglassey@gmail.com

[crystal timber]

yes the cord was chewed through and he was very shaky it happened last night around 9:30 i saw him acting funny i had ran out to the store i was up all night with him and took the day out of work to watch him im so worried he is just laying there and when he does move just drags his back legs around

[crystal timber]

what is mbd?

[rozdow]

Metabolic bone disease - caused by improper diet (calcium deficiency). Animals can break bone/back for no apparent reason due to poor bone quality. What is his diet? does he get rodent blocks?

[crystal timber]

no rodent blocks i make him nutballs which is a recipe i received from a ladie who has cared for over 2500 squirels it has all vitamins needed and seems like avery heathy one a day vitamin also nuts fruits and veggies

[crystal timber]

MISS PIXIE pls email me with the info from that vet in ri i tried to pm msg you but cant shawncrystalglassey@gmail.com thank u

[lilidukes]

I sent miss pixie a pm for you.

[CritterMom]

Um, hon, can you try something? Can you get some Tums - just the regular old antacids that you take for indigestion. They make a fruit flavor but any of them are fine. Break it into 4 pieces and try just giving him a piece - he may eat it on it's own. If he will not, mash it up in just a bit of water and syringe it onto him - not all at once, but maybe 1/4 of a tablet ever 3 hours or so. I am wondering about MBD too. This will absolutely NOT hurt him in any way but if he begins to show improvement after a day or so we know this was not electrocution, but MBD.

Have you completely checked him for wounds? If he got a wire the electricity would have exited his body somewhere and there would be a wound there.

[crystal timber]

thank you for sending the pm for me

[crystal timber]

i checked him for exit wounds ans see nothing there is no mistaking that the cord was chewed right through? im confused i have been on the computer and phone all day and cannot find a vet or anyone to help

[CritterMom]

Are there any burn marks on the part of the cord he chewed through?

What is the cord to? Was it actually turned on at the time?

[rozdow]

Isn't it just the black wire that is dangerous? Did he chew through all wires?

Has he gotten any better?

[lilidukes]

He should have a burn in his mouth if electrocuted.

[crystal timber]

He chewed on an extension cord tht went to a fan pointing in his cage ther were no burn marks on the cord but itwas very bad and actually all wires r dangerous I did double check and it seems his pinkie on his right hand is swollen and real red and on his private appears to b whit singed hair possible exit wounds?

[4skwerlz]

Could be electrocution and MBD. Stress of shock could bring on low-blood-calcium crisis. Please give the calcium to rule-in or rule-out MBD.

(Hind-end paralysis just seems odd after electrocution...)

[missPixy]

just sent my vet info to you at the email address you gave.

[crazy4squirrels]

His mouth, tongue and lips would be burned in some fashion.

[crystal timber]

Does anyone have metacam or tramadal or baytril andlive anywhere within driving ditance of ri I hav been stressed and worried all day I cannot find any vet that works on squirrels! My poor tmber is just laying ther can't move his legs and I think he is hurt and there is nothing I can do for him !

[CritterMom]

Here is what I would do for now:

I would move him to a small cage or carrier and set it up so that part of it is on a heating pad set on low. I would offer him hydration, first with hydration fluid like pedialyte or the home made version:
1 teaspoon salt
3 Tablespoons sugar
1 quart water.

Refrigerate. Offer by syringe warmed to a formula temperature.

I would get plenty of fluids into him - you want to see his kidneys working and make sure he can. Give him a syringe full every half hour for a bit then start to spread them out more. After half a day, switch to plain water, or if he fusses, make the recipe without the salt and slowly start weaning him of the sugar. You can add a little apple juice to the water to dress it up, too.

If you believe he is in pain, infant motrin may be used. This is INFANT IBUPROPHEN - they have three strengths, infant, child and adult. It can be purchased at the drug store. To dose exactly, his weight is needed, but one pound is probably safe which would be 0.10cc every 4 hours as needed.

Keep him nice and warm, make sure he has lots of soft stuff to snuggle into, and quiet; if you can keep him near you so you can hear if he gets restless at night it would be good. This is basic supportive care.

Will he eat anything?

[crystal timber]

he has eaten nutball and nuts today also i did put some salt and sugar in his water bottle and try to give hime some every half hr or so all day

[missPixy]

did you try the vet I gave you? unfortunately she's hired a couple of newer assistants and they aren't very helpful, they go "by the book." what did they say? I would call them again tomorrow and see if you get somebody else that answers.

I know in Saunderstown, drByrd and drChan will definitely treat squirrels~~ they run the Wildlife Rehabilitation Clinic there. but I don't know if they will be sticklers for asking whether you have a permit for him as that's the RI law... gray squirrels in captivity require a license or permit. you could call them and they would most likely be honest with you. you don't have to tell them who you are, where you live or anything identifying. just call and ask them if they could treat him, or if they would have to see a permit first?

you would need the correct dosing for metacam or tramadol (although if you can weigh him, the people on this board can do the dosing info for you and tell you how much.)

[UDoWhat]

he has eaten nutball and nuts today also i did put some salt and sugar in his water bottle and try to give hime some every half hr or so all day
I know you love your squirrel. It may be that your squirrel was shocked but if your squirrel is not on a balanced diet it will be in trouble soon. From what you are saying it already is. Please try this regimen for you sweet squirrel. TSB deals with this alllllllll the time and has saved many squirrels. It won't hurt him if we are wrong about the MBD. If we are right ...he will die soon. Please don't let this happen. Emergency Treatment for MBD

Get calcium into the squirrel IMMEDIATELY, not later, not tomorrow, NOW. Delaying treatment can cause death or permanent paralysis.

You will need:

--Tums or calcium pills (any kind)
--a syringe, eyedropper, or spoon

Crush one Tums or calcium pill and add a little water or fruit juice. Use the syringe, eyedropper, or spoon to force-feed the mixture, a little at a time, until it is all gone. Feed a total of 600-800 mg of calcium, and spread it out through the day and night to keep his blood calcium levels as steady as possible.

If the squirrel is having seizures, weakness, or paralysis, the symptoms will usually improve within a few hours, but this does not mean the squirrel is cured. It will take many months to rebuild the calcium in the bones.

Long-Term Treatment for MBD

The next step to curing MBD is to fix the diet.

1. Remove ALL seeds, nuts, corn, and treats.

2. Follow the Healthy Diet For Pet Squirrels, which can be found at the top of the “Squirrel Nutrition” forum. (http://thesquirrelboard.com/forums/s...ad.php?t=16093) Your squirrel MUST eat rodent block or squirrel blocks every day. If your squirrel doesn't like rodent blocks, you can try crushing them up with peanut butter or avocado temporarily. You can also make a tastier version of squirrel blocks using the recipe at the top of the Squirrel Nutrition forum.

3. In addition to the Healthy Diet, you will need to continue giving extra calcium every day for several weeks. Either use the syringe/eyedropper or you can try putting the calcium on a small piece of fruit.

Week 1: calcium = 500 mg per day
Week 2: calcium = 250 mg per day
Weeks 3-8: calcium = 100 mg per day

The cause of the acute symptoms—weakness, lethargy, seizures, paralysis—is a drop in blood calcium levels. If these symptoms return at any time, you will need to give another emergency dose of calcium.

More Tips
MBD causes brittle bones that break easily. Try to keep your squirrel away from high places, where he might jump and break a bone. Also, if he is in a tall cage, either place him in a smaller cage, or pad the bottom very well.

Heat is very soothing for a squirrel with MBD. A heating pad turned to low and placed so they cannot chew the pad or cord, or a rice buddy (a sock filled with dry rice/beans and microwaved for about 20 seconds) will work.

I will check back soon.

[rozdow]

Please shoot me an e-mail: rozdow@hotmail.com

Do the calcium regimen and cut back on the nuts (contrary to popular belief, nut are NOT their primary food and can lead to dietary imbalances).

[Jackie in Tampa]

He should have a burn in his mouth if electrocuted.
Marleys mouth and tongue were white...the corners of his mouth were gapping...the skin wasn't there...
his enlarged wounded toe was where the electricity exited...

I would start MBD treatment as all have advised.

Do you have a syringe?????
IMO, ONLY water should be in a water bottle...
feeding hydration fluid should be done with a syringe if he can be handled, if not, maybe it's time for a rehabber to help.
In order to treat for MBD, a syringe and careful calculation of calcium is needed. How much have you been able to get into him?
Have you seen any improvement or movement in his rear legs??

Please post pics, TY!
Hoping for the best, sending good vibes:Love_Icon

[Wonkawillie]

Someone else posted this as well. Possibly this squirrel did not get shocked and this is MBD!!!!!! Treat asap. Treatment can NOT hurt and may just be the answer. Of course you see the cord and the first thing you think is electric shock. It may just be MBD.

[Wonkawillie]

The black wire in the cord would have to be chewed and normally the white wire would also have to be chewed in order to make the power to ground loop. BOTH wires would need to be touched at the same time BUT........... I am thinking that if he chewed the black posative wire and if he were in a metal cage without rubber boots on.... the current from the posative wire would have passed through the squirrel and created its own ground, through the cage and to the ground. If the cage was on a rubber mat, he would not have been shocked. get it?
BUT.... I would certainly get calcuim into the squirrel. It sounds so much like MBD

[rozdow]

Any word??

[crystal timber]

I apreciate all the help I amgetting although I am very convinced he was electrocuted I did notice later that his finger in his front leg is bloody looking red and swollen also he was completely fine earlier in the day and didn't act paralysed until after the electocution. So I will try the calcium thinking it could be just a coincidence that he was electocuted or maybe it made him very weak and the mbd to kick in I think a few times in his 2 yr life mostly when he was younger I did see him drag his back legs a litlle bit there is nothing I want more then to see him use his legs and tail again he looks so sad any suggestions as how to clean or soak his finger without hurting him? Also I. Don't think he has gone to the bathrom :-( but has ate and drank and I know that is very bad.

[CritterMom]

Can you change his bedding so you can see if he potties - it is important that he be able to do that. You may need to stimulate him to go like you did when he was a baby.

The sore on his finger should be cleaned and you can put a little bit of Neosporin (read the label and make sure it does not contain zinc) on the sore place. Continue the supportive care - keeping him warm and quiet and limiting any movement and make sure he is eating and drinking. They have amazing recuperative powers - even those with bad breaks can sometimes make remarkable recoveries with enough time and care.

[crystal timber]

Thank u I amworried about putting anything on his finger because he will lick it off?

[missPixy]

a "naturopathic" way to treat cuts, wounds, infections etc., is by using fresh thyme, the herb, as a tea. you then use the tea to soak/ clean the affected area. thyme won't cause any problems if he licks it. it's a natural antibiotic/ antiseptic/ antibacterial/ decongestant herb and works very well.

I usually use 2 parts thyme to 1 part bottled spring water... this gives a good strength to the final tea. put the thyme into a mug or teapot and pour the boiling water over. lid mug or pot and let steep for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to release the beneficial oils. make sure to push all the thyme stems under the water. after 30 minutes it will be good to go and lukewarm as well.

you can refrigerate this and use a second time by reheating to a simmer (don't let it boil a second time). after the second use though, a fresh batch needs to be made.

[crystal timber]

I have started timber on calcuim I have dolomite powd3er I mixed it with water and gave him about 1cc but everytime I try to give him more he is getting mad does anyone know if it wo be ok to put a litle powder on a nut?

[CritterMom]

That is good, Crystal...but would you consider trying something besides the dolomite? Calcium carbonate and calcium citrate are more effective for this and so easily available. You can do the Tums thing short term and any good health food store will have the calcium, frequently as a powder which is really easy to dose.

[crystal timber]

The back of the dolomite bottle under supplement facts it says calcium carbonate from. Dolomite powder so it does have it I bought it at a vitamin place I makeb his nutballs with I'm pretty sure that's what u meant? Thank u

[msquizzle]

I'm no expert like the ones who have been helping you (these people do incredible work with squirrels, helped me out with absolutely everything I did with my single rehab-ee).

That being said, I've heard from the experts on this board that in general, nuts and nutballs are in fact rather bad for our furry friends, much like McDonald's is bad for us... it's edible but definitely not good for us. Rozdow and a few others said it, if you can, cut back on the nuts.

If you can get the calcium in him without nuts, it would be best. Maybe try offering it mixed in to some plain or vanilla yogurt (has even more calcium in it :thumbsup )... If I remember correctly, the bosses have always said that yogurt is pretty ok, and its easy to mix stuff in it. Just make sure that the stuff you get isn't the kind with fruit on the bottom or any extra flavoring, as it adds useless sugars and fake stuff into our squirrelies... Senior members, is this stuff ok to be saying at this point? Am I out of line? Just verifying... *sheepish grin*

Good luck with Timber, and give him feel better hugs from all of us! :grouphug

Edit: Also, Crittermom and all the other boss-ladies and -gents really go for things like Tums and antacids specifically because they have nothing else in them other than the CaCarbonate to screw their systems up more. Dolomite has Magnesium in it as well as Calcium. If Timber is really suffering from MDB, then he should be getting all the calcium he can absorb, not just some of it, plus more stuff too. Long story short, if you can, I'd try to get Tums ASAP.

[UDoWhat]

:wave123 Crystal timber, I want you to go back to my post #43. This is what you must do to help your squirrel. The dolomite can be used when your sq. is doing better. Your sq. is in trouble. I don't want to hurt your feelings or sound bossy but you need to get plain calcium carbonate or calcium citrate. I get it at WalMart for $4-5, I think. It is 100 pills. I take 1 and crush it up and dissolve in a little apple juice, sugar water, apple sauce watered down, yogurt, or ANYTHING your sq. will take. Plain water ok. If he doesn't like it with plain water ,TRY ANYTHING else. (Peanut butter, most squirrels LOVE avacado.) Make a mash if avacado and 1/2 a pecan and put the calcium in that. Whatever you can do to get the calcium in him/her YOU MUST. If you think his mouth is a problem from the burn then get a syringe 3cc and feed him Cal. with a syringe. Tell the Pharm/ Vet or whoever, you are hand raising kittens.They will usually give them to you. If not they will be cheep to buy. But get one and the Cal. (either kind, NOT dolomite. Dolomite doesn't have enough Cal to save him.)The syringe is the best delivery system for the Calcium. This is the best way. Whatever your sq. really loves to eat put the Calicum in it. If it is a nut then grind it up with something to keep it together so your sq. can eat it. You need to do this 5x a day for 8 weeks as post #43 explains. Please go back to post #43 and follow the instructions. If the squirrel is in pain you can buy plain INFANT ibuprophen. Get the liquid INFANT kind at WalMart also. I bought some at WalMart today it was under $5. (WalMart brand) Be sure it doesn't have anything in it like for algeries just IBUPROFEN oral suspension. I will ask CritterMom to give you the dose for your sweet squirrel. It even has a syringe in the box too. CritterMom can tell you how much to give. You only need a little bit . Now for the foot that got the burn. You can put Triple antibioic cream or ointment on it( Neosporin). Just read the ingredient list and get the one that does not have any ZINC in it. The regular Neosporin oinment without zinc can be used on squirrels. Use a small amount on his toe 2-3 times a day. (No zinc ).
Please follow these instructions so we can help you to help your squirrel. You posted in the EMERGENCY section and it is an EMERGENCY.
I will check back tomorrow to see if you have questions.

[astra]

:wave123 Crystal timber, I want you to go back to my post #43. This is what you must do to help your squirrel. The dolomite can be used when your sq. is doing better. Your sq. is in trouble. I don't want to hurt your feelings or sound bossy but you need to get plain calcium carbonate or calcium citrate. I get it at WalMart for $4-5, I think. It is 100 pills. I take 1 and crush it up and dissolve in a little apple juice, sugar water, apple sauce watered down, yogurt, or ANYTHING your sq. will take. Plain water ok. If he doesn't like it with plain water ,TRY ANYTHING else. (Peanut butter, most squirrels LOVE avacado.) Make a mash if avacado and 1/2 a pecan and put the calcium in that. Whatever you can do to get the calcium in him/her YOU MUST. If you think his mouth is a problem from the burn then get a syringe 3cc and feed him Cal. with a syringe. Tell the Pharm/ Vet or whoever, you are hand raising kittens.They will usually give them to you. If not they will be cheep to buy. But get one and the Cal. (either kind, NOT dolomite. Dolomite doesn't have enough Cal to save him.)The syringe is the best delivery system for the Calcium. This is the best way. Whatever your sq. really loves to eat put the Calicum in it. If it is a nut then grind it up with something to keep it together so your sq. can eat it. You need to do this 5x a day for 8 weeks as post #43 explains. Please go back to post #43 and follow the instructions. If the squirrel is in pain you can buy plain INFANT ibuprophen. Get the liquid INFANT kind at WalMart also. I bought some at WalMart today it was under $5. (WalMart brand) Be sure it doesn't have anything in it like for algeries just IBUPROFEN oral suspension. I will ask CritterMom to give you the dose for your sweet squirrel. It even has a syringe in the box too. CritterMom can tell you how much to give. You only need a little bit . Now for the foot that got the burn. You can put Triple antibioic cream or ointment on it( Neosporin). Just read the ingredient list and get the one that does not have any ZINC in it. The regular Neosporin oinment without zinc can be used on squirrels. Use a small amount on his toe 2-3 times a day. (No zinc ).
Please follow these instructions so we can help you to help your squirrel. You posted in the EMERGENCY section and it is an EMERGENCY.
I will check back tomorrow to see if you have questions.
:goodpost :goodpost :goodpost

[UDoWhat]

I'm no expert like the ones who have been helping you (these people do incredible work with squirrels, helped me out with absolutely everything I did with my single rehab-ee).

That being said, I've heard from the experts on this board that in general, nuts and nutballs are in fact rather bad for our furry friends, much like McDonald's is bad for us... it's edible but definitely not good for us. Rozdow and a few others said it, if you can, cut back on the nuts.

If you can get the calcium in him without nuts, it would be best. Maybe try offering it mixed in to some plain or vanilla yogurt (has even more calcium in it :thumbsup )... If I remember correctly, the bosses have always said that yogurt is pretty ok, and its easy to mix stuff in it. Just make sure that the stuff you get isn't the kind with fruit on the bottom or any extra flavoring, as it adds useless sugars and fake stuff into our squirrelies... Senior members, is this stuff ok to be saying at this point? Am I out of line? Just verifying... *sheepish grin*

Good luck with Timber, and give him feel better hugs from all of us! :grouphug

Edit: Also, Crittermom and all the other boss-ladies and -gents really go for things like Tums and antacids specifically because they have nothing else in them other than the CaCarbonate to screw their systems up more. Dolomite has Magnesium in it as well as Calcium. If Timber is really suffering from MDB, then he should be getting all the calcium he can absorb, not just some of it, plus more stuff too. Long story short, if you can, I'd try to get Tums ASAP.
Listen to her too. FYI, yogurt with friut or flavor is ok. Just do not use the light kind . They usually have artifical sugar substitutes in them. Not so good. :rotfl Tums friut flavor can be crushed up and dissolved in a little water and given to your squirrel. Sometimes you can just hand them one and they will eat it ... just like that . Please try.

[crystal timber]

Ok ts very late now and everything is closed I did getsome tums and gave him a few small pieces he did not like the dolomite at all! The very big problem is he has poped but I dnt think he has went pee at all I'm so worried!!! I am pretty sure he moved one of his legs about an hr ago I have him laying on a white pillow case to monitor him going to the bathroom

[UDoWhat]

You may need to stimulate him like a baby. Pick him up and take a cotton ball or toilet paper and gently rub his penis. See if you can rub gently for about 30 secs or so. Is he drinking anything? You may need to give him water out of a syringe... drop by drop. He is helpless and needs special attention. Try to give him water, sugar water, fruit juice. ANY liquid he will take. If he can't move his back end well, there is no way in heaven that he can get his own water. You must help him. Offer something tonight. Most squirrels will drink some kind of fruit juice. Not orange juice, though. Water down the juice.

[UDoWhat]

I can't stress enough how much he needs you to help him. He can not drink on his own. He may not be able to pee pee own his own either. Please stimulate him tonight and offer liquids. He will go downhill fast if he becomes dehydrated. Or if he can't pee own his own. Sorry just straight talk here. He needs you to help him. Prayers for you sweet one.:Love_Icon

[Jackie in Tampa]

Good morning, hoping for a good update!
You are getting great help...please listen to the members,
as they want to help your baby:Love_Icon


http://th284.photobucket.com/albums/ll33/crankyfan/th_smiley-fingertap-gigi.gif (http://media.photobucket.com/image/impatient%20smiley/crankyfan/smiley-fingertap-gigi.gif?o=1)we need pics!
please!!

[msquizzle]

UDW- *checks off the fruity yogurt* Thanks! I'll put that in my arsenal... might actually get the beast to eat the yogurt before its 12 hours old with the good fruity kind! :wahoo :bowdown

[crystal timber]

So timber went pee today finally which I'm very happy about but still isn't moving his legs however he is trying to climb his cage with his back legs hanging there which is making me very nervous! if he falls he will get hurt I need to find a smaller cage but I was ot prepared for an injury

[UDoWhat]

So timber went pee today finally which I'm very happy about but still isn't moving his legs however he is trying to climb his cage with his back legs hanging there which is making me very nervous! if he falls he will get hurt I need to find a smaller cage but I was ot prepared for an injury
Hi :wave123 I am sorry this is happening. He really needs the Calcium more than ever now. Try to get a small cage for him. Not tall. Try not to let him climb. He is scared and confused. Love him and keep him calm. :Love_Icon He is most likely in pain. Did you get the Infant Ibuorophen. Is he on heat? I know it is hot but you can offer heating pad 1/2 cage on 1/2 cage off. If he can crawl. Don't let him lay in pee pee. He will get skin burns if he stays wet with urine. Keep him clean from urine. Please give him water out of a syringe so you can keep track of how much he drinks. Or mark water bottle and measure. He needs your help and love and support. Please give him the calcium. :Love_Icon :Love_Icon Poor Timber! Scritchens to Timber.

[crystal timber]

Timber is drinking water very well I think he is in pin andi know he is confused I keep trying to give him calcium and trick him any way I can! Wow he I so stubbrn! Its like he knows and is fighting me on taking anything

[UDoWhat]

:wave123 I am glad you are getting the calcium in him, kinda of. A little trick is to hide it in something he really likes. Also I was going to tell you about something called Ensure. It is a liquid food supplement for people. You can buy it in most drug stores, like CVS, or WalGreens, or WalMart. It comes in pecan flavor .Most squirrels love it and will take it out of a syringe. You could add the calcium to the Ensure Pecan flavor. It would make things much easier for you and him. If you give things by syringe to him to eat or drink go very sloooooooowly or he could choke and aspirate. What is he eating, BTW. You need to keep the calcium treatments up for about 8 weeks. Keep the up dates coming. Praying for Timber.:Love_Icon

[crystal timber]

ISo I got fed up with timber being so stubborn about taking the calcium because I know its so important so I ignored his angry sounds and made him take it and after a few minutes he was taking it willingly so that's good I am still very worried he will never use his back legs again :-( does anyone know if by some miracle there is a chance he will? Also he seems so sad and depressed . Also I got ahold of some metacom I haven't. Gave it to him because I don't kno. The correct dose? I have no way to weigh him he is very tiny any help?

[UDoWhat]

:wave123 Hi CT, Do you have anyway to post a pic of him? So we could guess how much he might weigh. If not, can you quess, like as much as a stick of butter or 2or 3 sticks of butter? 4 stickes of butter is a pound. Any thing you could compare his size too. Also what does the bottle say about the strength of the medication? It may take months but many times squirrels can gain some or most or all of the movement in his back legs. Don't give up on this. Prayer does a lot of good too.

EDIT: I can help dose if you can help guess how much he weighs.

[crystal timber]

I. Have a pic of timber I just took but I don't know how to post it pls help

[crystal timber]

I have the dosage info for the metacam the bottl says. Metacam [melorican]. 1.5 mg/ml oral suspension. Give one 25 lb dosage daily. Administered 0.09 mg/lb- 0.02mg/kg. Body eight only for first day of treatment. Aftercare .. once daily. 0.045 mg/lb. 0.01mg/kg. This was given to a 25lb dog?

[Nancy in New York]

I. Have a pic of timber I just took but I don't know how to post it pls help

Can you email me the picture and I will post it for you.
nmognoni@nycap.rr.com

[UDoWhat]

If you can e-mail to Nancy then I can try to figure dose. For the dog, the instructions look like the Vet gave a loading dose,( Double dose for first time) then 1/2 that amount for the next doses. That is what my Vet usually does too. Now I will figure out dose for a squirrel of about a 1/2 to 3/4 of a pound. I will be back later with dosing info for Timber. Hope pictures can be e-mailed , if you can. I'm not sure I can but Nancy said she will. Be back soon.

[UDoWhat]

Ok, back with a guess on weight. I don't usually like to guess without seeing or much of a comparsion but this is the best I can do. I'm going on the low side and calutating for a 250- 260 squirrel. You said he was about 2 years old and small. So I'm going low with 1/2 a pound or a little over for Timber.

First dose- 0.10ml - 1 time per day
Day 2 - 0.05ml - 1 time per day
Day 3 - 0.05ml - 1 time per day
If you are not sure of how to read a syringe my Vet once told me that 1 small drop is equal to about 0.05ml. So please be sure to give small drop not a big drop. On the first day you need to give a loading dose that is double for the first time. First day give 2 small drops - 1 time per day.
Day 2 - 1 small drop - 1 time per day
Day 3 - 1 small drop - 1 time per day
Like a said I really like to weigh and give the best accurate dose but this is all we can do for now. I may be on the low dose side but better than overdose. Be sure he is not dehydrated before starting the metacam .
also update as to how he is doing. Will check back later.

[crystal timber]

I gave t imber the metacam and put him in a smaller cage I was wondering is it only for the 3 days I give him the metacam?

[UDoWhat]

I gave t imber the metacam and put him in a smaller cage I was wondering is it only for the 3 days I give him the metacam?
Hi crysal timber, My Vet told me to use for 3-4 days but I don't know if you can use longer. Maybe someone on TSB could advise. I'll try to find out.
Do not use with with other medications like motrin (Ibuprofen, asprin. or any steriods.) These meds can not be used together. Metacam by itself. The metacam says to be sure the animal is drinking plenty of water. You can give the metacam with the calcium it is ok. So keep the calcium going.How is Timber doing? Any movement in his back legs?

[crystal timber]

Thank you no movement in his backlegs I thought I might have saw a twich here and there but I'm not sure if it was just wishful thinking. I am having a very hard time giving the calcium I have tried to hide it in foods he likes but he refuses so its at the point I have to hold and force him which I don't like to do and I m scared to aspirate him also his whole body is shaking quivering I don't know if its from pain or being cold I have kept him warm and thought maybe the metacam would help? Why else would he be shaking?

[rozdow]

Keep trying the calcium! Do keep him warm (heating pad on low under half of his cage.)

have you tried avacado (with calcium on it? They love avacados.

[Nancy in New York]

Thank you no movement in his backlegs I thought I might have saw a twich here and there but I'm not sure if it was just wishful thinking. I am having a very hard time giving the calcium I have tried to hide it in foods he likes but he refuses so its at the point I have to hold and force him which I don't like to do and I m scared to aspirate him also his whole body is shaking quivering I don't know if its from pain or being cold I have kept him warm and thought maybe the metacam would help? Why else would he be shaking?

Here you go. I will be right back and try to help you out here. Sorry, I couldn't get the picture any larger.
http://i673.photobucket.com/albums/vv95/nancym518/Spring%202011/GetAttachment.jpg

[Nancy in New York]

Just looking at him quickly. Can you get him into a smaller container, cage, cat carrier, something that he can't chew through.
Put a heating pad half UNDER the container set on LOW. Put lots of fleece or flannel, blankets, anything that he cannot catch his nails on. He needs more stuff to snuggle into.
Get an old sock and fill it with about a cup of uncooked white rice, microwave on high for about a minute, and put that next to him. You will need to reheat the sock/rice about every hour or so to keep it toasty warm.

[Jackie in Tampa]

Ok, back with a guess on weight. I don't usually like to guess without seeing or much of a comparsion but this is the best I can do. I'm going on the low side and calutating for a 250- 260 squirrel. You said he was about 2 years old and small. So I'm going low with 1/2 a pound or a little over for Timber.

First dose- 0.10ml - 1 time per day
Day 2 - 0.05ml - 1 time per day
Day 3 - 0.05ml - 1 time per day
If you are not sure of how to read a syringe my Vet once told me that 1 small drop is equal to about 0.05ml. So please be sure to give small drop not a big drop. On the first day you need to give a loading dose that is double for the first time. First day give 2 small drops - 1 time per day.
Day 2 - 1 small drop - 1 time per day
Day 3 - 1 small drop - 1 time per day
Like a said I really like to weigh and give the best accurate dose but this is all we can do for now. I may be on the low dose side but better than overdose. Be sure he is not dehydrated before starting the metacam .
also update as to how he is doing. Will check back later.marty, from the pic, he appears bigger...guessing a pound [1lb]...looking at the water bottle, it appears he's not so small.
i know you know this, but i just need to ask,what strength metacam is?
there are two versions for 'small animals', one is three times as strong...
i haven't been around, i'm sure you are on top of it!

crystal, i have always had good luck when using avocado to mask calcium with sqs that refuse the syringe.
it is very important to keep him hydrated, as metacam can permanently damage internal organs if not.
you are getting great advise

sending good vibes to timber.:Love_Icon

[Jackie in Tampa]

I have the dosage info for the metacam the bottl says. Metacam [melorican]. 1.5 mg/ml oral suspension. Give one 25 lb dosage daily. Administered 0.09 mg/lb- 0.02mg/kg. Body eight only for first day of treatment. Aftercare .. once daily. 0.045 mg/lb. 0.01mg/kg. This was given to a 25lb dog?
just saw this...oops, sorry...

[CritterMom]

Are you using the dolomite or did you buy other calcium? If you are using the dolomite, we need you to switch. PLEASE either buy a bottle of the fruit flavored Tums or purchase calcium powder from a health food store. My squirrel LOVES fruit flavored Tums and would take it over a nut! Break it into pieces depending how many milligrams it is - you want about 500mg of calcium - it may be half a tablet or 3/4. If he will not just eat small pieces of that 500mg dose then crush and mix with water, juice or probably the thing they will like the best, a small amount of grenadine (it is a strong fruit flavored syrup used in making mixed drinks - you will find it in the liquor aisle) and syringe it to him. The dolomite does not have nearly as much calcium in it as straight calcium does and you cannot get enough into him that way.

You also need to make sure he is hydrated. If he is not drinking and peeing well on his own that will need to be syringed into him, too. Sometimes adding just a splash of apple juice to the water will convince them (you will have to change the water more frequently if you do this) to drink more.

And the rest is keep him warm and quiet.

[crystal timber]

Timber is peeing fine when he does drink its a lot I have been trying to give him the fruit flavoredtums and hide it in everything and hedoesnt like them at all! :(

[UDoWhat]

Are you using the dolomite or did you buy other calcium? If you are using the dolomite, we need you to switch. PLEASE either buy a bottle of the fruit flavored Tums or purchase calcium powder from a health food store. My squirrel LOVES fruit flavored Tums and would take it over a nut! Break it into pieces depending how many milligrams it is - you want about 500mg of calcium - it may be half a tablet or 3/4. If he will not just eat small pieces of that 500mg dose then crush and mix with water, juice or probably the thing they will like the best, a small amount of grenadine (it is a strong fruit flavored syrup used in making mixed drinks - you will find it in the liquor aisle) and syringe it to him. The dolomite does not have nearly as much calcium in it as straight calcium does and you cannot get enough into him that way.

You also need to make sure he is hydrated. If he is not drinking and peeing well on his own that will need to be syringed into him, too. Sometimes adding just a splash of apple juice to the water will convince them (you will have to change the water more frequently if you do this) to drink more.

And the rest is keep him warm and quiet.
What she said . Please try anything to get the Tums into him. Will he eat p.nut butter? It is not ideal but crush Tums up and see if he will take in a small bit of p.nut butter. See if he likes p.nut butter first, no point to waste the Tums. Can you tell me anything that he really does like to eat the most? Tell me a few things and I will try to think of ways to get him to eat Tums. You may have to do "Tough love" and crush the Tums, mix with a small amount of juice, sugar water, yogurt, Pepsi/Coke, (I know that sounds crazy but I once had a squirrel who loved Pepsi. He would always try to get it if he was out. Try to chew the plastic bottle.) Anything just for now to get the Tums in him at least 3or4 times a day. You don't have to give him all the Tums at once. Crush it and divide into 3 or 4 little amounts of crushed Tums. Then mix/dissolve with the smallest amout of liquid you can so you can squirt in his mouth slowly but won't be that much to fight him about. Hope this will work. He must get Tums to get better.:Love_Icon :Love_Icon

[SammysMom]

With a cat, you can rub pasty meds on their paw or leg etc. and grooming gets it into them. I have wondered with Sammy if I could do that with a paste of Tums. Would that be possible or not a good idea?

[UDoWhat]

With a cat, you can rub pasty meds on their paw or leg etc. and grooming gets it into them. I have wondered with Sammy if I could do that with a paste of Tums. Would that be possible or not a good idea?
When you are desperate to help them and get those meds in the little sweeties then almost anything is a good idea. I would try if. It won't hurt!:D

[crystal timber]

I was wondering if anyone has a paralyzed squirrel. And if so are they able to have any feeling in their tail or move their legs at all? I took timber to a vet today and she said he will never walk again. I am not doubting her and she is a very good vet I just am still very sad and still faithful. Timber went from not moving his legs at all to moving them a little bit I dont know if its just a normal twitching or what to think also if I pull the end of his tail fur he moves his tail. At this point he is urinating on himself and the vet said there is no hope. should I not get my hopes up from the small movement I'm seeing? Any feedback is appreciated thank you!

[astra]

yes, whatever little movement you see might promise that he might be able to regain some mobility.
I vaguely recall that some people here with paralyzed squirrels did some sort of physical therapy with their squirrels: e.g., massage the legs, move them gently, etc etc, just like you would do for an injured human: keep those muscles moving, massage them, move legs, some exercise however little, just to keep them moving etc.

Also, if he pees on himself, he will get urine scold. So, you need to take care of that. Send a private message to lilidukes, CharleyChuckles, squirrelfriend - they have dealt with severely injured and paralyzed squirrels and can help you with suggestions.
Especially, lilidukes - she will explain to you how to wash him and prevent urine scold.

Even if he doesn't regain movement, he can lead a content life as a paralyzed squirrel. But yes, that will require a commitment and special care on your part. Again, there are people here who will be happy to share their experience with you: again, lilidukes, CharleyChuckles... I am sure there are more people, but those two come to mind at the moment.

If you post a question, putting in the title "paralyzed squirrel care" or something like that - a lot of people with appropriate experience will respond with great suggestions.

PS (edit): he is "paralyzed" not due to injury, but, possibly MBD?... if so, then, there might be more hope for him to regain at least some mobility: again, physio therapy and very good nutrition... again, there are no guarantees, but there is at least some chance, however small.
Especially, since it's just started (right?), the "newer" the illness, the higher are the chances for at least some improvement (and, maybe, even good improvement).
So, I'd definitely be doing everything possible and would see what happens.
Don't listen to the vet - there is hope, especially, if he can move his tail and some movement in his legs. There will be no twitch at all if he were 100% dead-end paralyzed...

[astra]

Jackie has had quite a few squirrels with severe MBD cases, almost on the verge of..., and she helped them regain health. She is a great person to go for advice when treating MBD (and many other things)

PS sorry if I am repeating what has already been said - didin't get to read every single post in detail

[astra]

Sorry, I just keep adding and adding all these little posts - too tired and really need to be sleeping,
but there are tons of experienced and knowledgeable ppl here, besides JackieIT, UdoWhat is another person that comes to mind, because if I remember it correctly, she has treated MBD squirrels and always has tons of knowledge almost about everything... - but tons of experienced people (Squirgrl, Mountain Mama, IR, NIN and many, many others, won't be able to name them all - just keep asking away.
There is Hope!!!!!

just follow their suggestions;-)
ok, bed time now.

[UDoWhat]

yes, whatever little movement you see might promise that he might be able to regain some mobility.
I vaguely recall that some people here with paralyzed squirrels did some sort of physical therapy with their squirrels: e.g., massage the legs, move them gently, etc etc, just like you would do for an injured human: keep those muscles moving, massage them, move legs, some exercise however little, just to keep them moving etc.

Also, if he pees on himself, he will get urine scold. So, you need to take care of that. Send a private message to lilidukes, CharleyChuckles, squirrelfriend - they have dealt with severely injured and paralyzed squirrels and can help you with suggestions.
Especially, lilidukes - she will explain to you how to wash him and prevent urine scold.

Even if he doesn't regain movement, he can lead a content life as a paralyzed squirrel. But yes, that will require a commitment and special care on your part. Again, there are people here who will be happy to share their experience with you: again, lilidukes, CharleyChuckles... I am sure there are more people, but those two come to mind at the moment.

If you post a question, putting in the title "paralyzed squirrel care" or something like that - a lot of people with appropriate experience will respond with great suggestions.

PS (edit): he is "paralyzed" not due to injury, but, possibly MBD?... if so, then, there might be more hope for him to regain at least some mobility: again, physio therapy and very good nutrition... again, there are no guarantees, but there is at least some chance, however small.
Especially, since it's just started (right?), the "newer" the illness, the higher are the chances for at least some improvement (and, maybe, even good improvement).
So, I'd definitely be doing everything possible and would see what happens.
Don't listen to the vet - there is hope, especially, if he can move his tail and some movement in his legs. There will be no twitch at all if he were 100% dead-end paralyzed...
:goodpost :goodpost
I know your Vet is good but most do not know about wildlife or squirrels. I hope you are doing the calcium. If he is to get better it must be with calcium. And you must get him on a good rodent block or Boo balls or some kind of good nutrition. I think you should order some Henery's Health Blocks. I will post the link to the site. The owner is a TSB member. Maybe you could call her and she can explain what Timber needs. It will help you to understand what to do. Please look up the stories of the members that have been suggested. Many paralyzed squirrels will regain some, most ,even all of their ability to walk if you will follow the calcium regimen for 8 weeks. Get that calcium in him anyway you can at least 3 x a day. You will see a difference. Please keep trying. Here are some links for food.
www.henryspets.com Or try a home made recipe : http://thesquirrelboard.com/forums/showthread.php?t=28096&highlight=Ball+sticky :thankyou for caring for Timber.:Love_Icon I meant to tell you try a little test to see about feeling in his legs. I want you to pinch a toe on his back legs. Does he react at all? If he does, it is very possible for him to regain feeling in his legs and walk better again.
EDIT: I hope others with experience with paralyzed squirrels will chime in to help us here.

[Charley Chuckles]

Hi I got your PM I just wanted to read your thread first.......my Charley Chuckles has had paralysis since he was found about 2 weeks old he fell from a tree during hurricane Charley...I have always worked with his back legs moving them gently like therapy...he can get around very well, if you rub by the base of his tail it causes him to jump like a frog but I truly believe it is involuntary...however he has feeling....he wears a protective vest to keep his spine in line and also prevents him from chewing at his belly...in paralyzed/paralysis I have been told they still have feeling maybe annoying like pins and needles when your foot falls asleep, so he chews and doesn't have the pain to know to stop.....OK that may not be much help for you but CC is almost one pound (he is minus a tail as well, do to his chewing issue it had to be removed :osnap ) ...anyway the dose of Metacam 1.5/ml ....I give 0.02 cc once a day for 3 days for pain...I always use peanut butter for everything/CC hates syringes , but with the way it is so difficult to get Metacam it may be better to syringe it or just put it on your finger and see if he licks it off (but I guess you already got him taking it/just food for thought down the road)[however I only gave CC it after surgery] but now you should know the amount to give.............I have videos of Charley how he gets around with upper body strength........I would put them up but not sure how to on the board/I will see about sending them via your email address...........I will PM you my info I live in Florida I will be gone for the most part of the day tomorrow but home in the afternoon, when you can maybe give me a call and lets compare notes maybe there is something we can do....oh yes I was told by a rehabber a year or two ago to use a product called Liquid Immune Barrier advanced formula with Echinacea and beta glucan /the company is California Academy of Health.....I use a smalll amount in Charley's water daily...she swore it helps with paralysis ....I also use daily in his water Vetri-DMG liquid/the company Vetri-science laboratories for immune system....both I get on line and I will look up where I get that..........I am sending prayers for your Timber and for you :grouphug
I hope this makes sense my eyes are crossing time to hit the hay:wave123

[Twi_prime]

I wonder about the tums. Do they have some kind of artificial sweetener or sugar alcohol on their ingredient list? (nutrasweet/aspartame/phenylketonurics/phenylalanine, xylitol, malitol, sorbitol, isomalt, saccharin, splenda/sucralose) I've *heard* that splenda is not so bad for squirrels, but that people should stay away from other artificial sweeteners. That's not the real point of my post though. My point is, I wonder if your little guy won't eat them because of an ingredient like that, but might eat them if they were just sugar sweetened. Please, anyone correct me if I don't know what I'm talking about. Thanks!

[lilidukes]

I am a little confused here so please bare with me. What caused the paralysis??? The vet said he will never regain the use of his legs...WHY? Spinal break, broken pelvis??? Do you have a copy of his xrays?? Is he peeing on his own or does he need his bladder expressed???

He does have to be keep dry, I use cotton diapers and cotton receiving blankets in the bottom of the cage. These I change up to 6-8 times a day. If he is wet all the time he will have to have baths. Left wet he will get urine scald. The skin gets burned and all of the hair falls out. Very uncomfortable for the squirrel. Even with me taking every precaution Brighteyes still suffered from this.

If this is MBD using tums is not the long term answer.

I will tell you that if there is feeling in the back legs and tail due to a break all is possible. Check out virgo062 thread Hit by a car. I have her Brighteyes and she can walk, run, climbs a tree in the house.

I have Wizard a juvie whose back was broken as a baby. He is a happy, crazy little guy who even without the use of his back legs thinks he is a squirrel. He gives me a new grey hair daily.:shakehead

If you would like to talk you can call me anytime, I am never to busy to help a squirrel.

Lisa
864 285-0911

[Charley Chuckles]

I am a little confused here so please bare with me. What caused the paralysis??? The vet said he will never regain the use of his legs...WHY? Spinal break, broken pelvis??? Do you have a copy of his xrays?? Is he peeing on his own or does he need his bladder expressed???

He does have to be keep dry, I use cotton diapers and cotton receiving blankets in the bottom of the cage. These I change up to 6-8 times a day. If he is wet all the time he will have to have baths. Left wet he will get urine scald. The skin gets burned and all of the hair falls out. Very uncomfortable for the squirrel. Even with me taking every precaution Brighteyes still suffered from this.

If this is MBD using tums is not the long term answer.

I will tell you that if there is feeling in the back legs and tail due to a break all is possible. Check out virgo062 thread Hit by a car. I have her Brighteyes and she can walk, run, climbs a tree in the house.

I have Wizard a juvie whose back was broken as a baby. He is a happy, crazy little guy who even without the use of his back legs thinks he is a squirrel. He gives me a new grey hair daily.:shakehead

If you would like to talk you can call me anytime, I am never to busy to help a squirrel.

Lisa
864 285-0911
Hi Lisa I think it started with Crystal Timber got hold of an extension cord that ran a fan and bit through it and possible electrocution...there were signs of hands/and I believe the lower abdomen shows some signs of burning....it may be a combo and MBD could have also kicked in :dono but he was not able to use the back legs after this....this is my understanding.....
I hope their is some improvement today :grouphug

[missPixy]

I was wondering if anyone has a paralyzed squirrel. And if so are they able to have any feeling in their tail or move their legs at all? I took timber to a vet today and she said he will never walk again. I am not doubting her and she is a very good vet I just am still very sad and still faithful. Timber went from not moving his legs at all to moving them a little bit I dont know if its just a normal twitching or what to think also if I pull the end of his tail fur he moves his tail. At this point he is urinating on himself and the vet said there is no hope. should I not get my hopes up from the small movement I'm seeing? Any feedback is appreciated thank you!

do you mind giving the name of that vet? did you go to the wildlife rehab clinic or the vet I emailed to you? or somebody different?

I know with vets who aren't experienced with hamsters, for example, that they will often say a hamster has to be euthanized because they're not aware of nor familiar with what treatment can be given in different situations. so I wondered if you went to a vet with wildlife knowledge.

[pappy1264]

Crystal, I have not heard back from you. Please let me know if you will be coming up today to get meds, so I can plan my day. How is Timber doing today?

[lilidukes]

Crystal Hello need an address to ship to. Are you and Timber okay???

[Bill]

just some info. re: caring for a paralyzed squirrel. We got Simon about 9 months ago and he was suffering from severe urine burn because he was paralyzed and couldn't move to "potty". We brought him home and much to his unhappiness, gave him a warm bath to help soothe the pain. After he was thoroughly dried(hairdryer held at a great distance) we lathered Neosporin and A&D ointment on the burned area...will admit this was not to his liking. We did this routine for about a week then took him for a well baby check-up at our vets. We were told he had feeling in all extremities and this was a good sign...."diaper rash" was healing well and to continue our program. Simon now has had a couple of surgeries because of his chewing on his legs and some of his tail has been removed. Is he walking yet? No, but he is trying to stand on those back legs so we are still ever hopeful. He is actually the second paralyzed squirrel we have parented, "Skippy" went through the same ordeal.... we just bougth a tall cat tree placed their cages close by and each adapted. It's kinda fun to have a little pal greet you in the morning and sometimes sit on your lap for those neck, ear and chin rubs(theirs not mine)

[UDoWhat]

just some info. re: caring for a paralyzed squirrel. We got Simon about 9 months ago and he was suffering from severe urine burn because he was paralyzed and couldn't move to "potty". We brought him home and much to his unhappiness, gave him a warm bath to help soothe the pain. After he was thoroughly dried(hairdryer held at a great distance) we lathered Neosporin and A&D ointment on the burned area...will admit this was not to his liking. We did this routine for about a week then took him for a well baby check-up at our vets. We were told he had feeling in all extremities and this was a good sign...."diaper rash" was healing well and to continue our program. Simon now has had a couple of surgeries because of his chewing on his legs and some of his tail has been removed. Is he walking yet? No, but he is trying to stand on those back legs so we are still ever hopeful. He is actually the second paralyzed squirrel we have parented, "Skippy" went through the same ordeal.... we just bougth a tall cat tree placed their cages close by and each adapted. It's kinda fun to have a little pal greet you in the morning and sometimes sit on your lap for those neck, ear and chin rubs(theirs not mine)
Bill bless you and :thankyou for your encouraging words to Crystal Timber. This can be done for your little sweetie, too. I hope you will feel encouraged by these stories! :grouphug

[pappy1264]

Spoke to Crystal a little while ago, they will be heading up here in a bit to get meds. I will tell her to get her address to you.

[lilidukes]

Spoke to Crystal a little while ago, they will be heading up here in a bit to get meds. I will tell her to get her address to you.
:thankyou I will send out some SSD Monday am! Let me know if I can send anything else.

[pappy1264]

Will do! (I just realized you were probably talking to Crystal.....was up way too early this morning! lol)

[Jackie in Tampa]

:thumbsup aawesome!:bowdown :bowdown

[pappy1264]

should be here soon...talked to her just after 1 pm and she said she was leaving soon. I hope they are ok (it was crazy in Boston today....parade for the Bruins...over 1 million people!!)

[pappy1264]

Just called, be here in a few minutes.

[UDoWhat]

So happy she is getting help. Wonderful help!! :bowdown :Love_Icon

[crystal timber]

So I got some meds into timber and h seems to be feeling good and relaxed. I lalso put some ad ointment on his burn and finger so hopfully it will help until I get the good stuff for the burn in the mail. Also I dug my nail into his back foot to see if he can feel and he jerked it away right away a wonderful sign he has feeling! Also he was laying on his back super relaxed as I was rubbing his neck and belly he was moving his. Back leg in the same motion he would as if he went to scratch his belly.:-) someone asked if I saw a vet familiar with wildlife yes she does work with wildlife and squirels no she did not do x rays or mri. Thank you so much for everyones help and support! And advice and ideas and suggestions especially to those who helped me today :-)

[pappy1264]

So glad to hear this, Crystal! It was very nice to meet you and your sister today. Sorry for all that traffic! (Bruins parade!!) How was he giving the meds? I hope it will all help him to get better! Keep us posted!

[lilidukes]

:thumbsup :thumbsup :thumbsup

Keep him dry and comfy. Watch for signs of him chewing if he starts we will have to put an e-collar on him. If that toe gets worse my advice would be to get him to Dr Pilny quickly for the toe to be amputated. If the toe goes septic he will die very quickly.

Keep the tummy flora good with yogurt and make sure he is well hydrated.

Call if you need anything.:grouphug

[UDoWhat]

So glad you were able to get help today. Let us know what you need and ANY questions you have. :thumbsup I will help however I can.

[crystal timber]

It was so nice to meet you both today also. I was wondering about the yogurt all I have right now is chobani greek yogurt plain and blueberry flavored is it ok to give him this? Alsoif his toe does get that bad where is that doctor located? I will watch for chewing but I think he is doing ok. I was doing some excersises with his legs pushing them up and I think I felt small resistance.:thankyou

[crystal timber]

Also it wasn't too bad giving he meds my husband held himwhile I gave them he didn't like it but it was much easier with two people.

[UDoWhat]

It was so nice to meet you both today also. I was wondering about the yogurt all I have right now is chobani greek yogurt plain and blueberry flavored is it ok to give him this? Alsoif his toe does get that bad where is that doctor located? I will watch for chewing but I think he is doing ok. I was doing some excersises with his legs pushing them up and I think I felt small resistance.:thankyou
Yes to the yogurt. i would give the blueberry. Mine love blueberry, but it doesn't matter which kind.

[astra]

It was so nice to meet you both today also. I was wondering about the yogurt all I have right now is chobani greek yogurt plain and blueberry flavored is it ok to give him this? Alsoif his toe does get that bad where is that doctor located? I will watch for chewing but I think he is doing ok. I was doing some excersises with his legs pushing them up and I think I felt small resistance.:thankyou
Dr. Pilny is in NYC, but he is one of the best squirrel vets in the whole country, probably (and entire North America);-). Send a private message to IR - she knows him and could help you connect with him. It might be a good idea to do that right now, so that if emergency arises (let's hope not), you will be prepared.

[crystal timber]

Who is IR?

[lilidukes]

Who is IR?
that would be island rehabber our admin and owner of TSB.

How is Timber today?

[crystal timber]

Timber is doing good I know his recovery could take time but last night he curled his toes on his back legs and there has been a lot of movement in his back legs his finger doesn't seem to have gotten any better. He seems more like himself lately.:thankyou

[pappy1264]

Good to hear about the movement in his back end. Hopefully you will have that cream soon. Were you able to get a pics of his hand/toe like I asked?

[crystal timber]

I do have a pic of his finger its kind of blurry hard to get a good one from him moving I don't think it has gotte better or worse? I think it will take more time to judge that. I can't find IR on the member list to send a pm about that vet?

[Tickle's Mom]

I do have a pic of his finger its kind of blurry hard to get a good one from him moving I don't think it has gotte better or worse? I think it will take more time to judge that. I can't find IR on the member list to send a pm about that vet?

island rehabber

start typing in her name and it should appear. I just tested it and it did for me.

[crystal timber]

so i have bought some rodent blocks and a bunch of other stuff that was listed in the squirrel nutrition section. also by reading it i found some things that have blocking calcium such as cashews i was giving him daily and spinich even though i made very healthy nutballs for him i guess it would have cancelled it out so i have decided we cant completely rule out mbd unfortunately i was uninformed about the correct diet of a pet squirrel for almost 2 years. luckily now i feel i can trust i have the right info so i am forever grateful to have found tsb i am still going to try to give the extra calcium with the tums does anyone know a better souce of quick calcium?.

[UDoWhat]

so i have bought some rodent blocks and a bunch of other stuff that was listed in the squirrel nutrition section. also by reading it i found some things that have blocking calcium such as cashews i was giving him daily and spinich even though i made very healthy nutballs for him i guess it would have cancelled it out so i have decided we cant completely rule out mbd unfortunately i was uninformed about the correct diet of a pet squirrel for almost 2 years. luckily now i feel i can trust i have the right info so i am forever grateful to have found tsb i am still going to try to give the extra calcium with the tums does anyone know a better souce of quick calcium?.
:wave123 Crystal, How is Timber today? Better sources of calcium to treat MBD are calcium carbonate and/or calcium citrate. They are more effective for this and easily available. You can do the Tums thing short term. Most good health food stores will have the calcium, frequently as a powder which is really easy to dose.
You should use the following regimen/ schedule for 8 weeks:

In addition to the Healthy Diet, you will need to continue giving extra calcium every day for several weeks. Either use the syringe/eyedropper or you can try putting the calcium on a small piece of fruit.

Week 1: calcium = 500 mg per day (Total per day)
Week 2: calcium = 250 mg per day (Total per day)
Weeks 3-8: calcium = 100 mg per day (Total per day)

These doses should be given by using a syringe, eyedropper, or spoon to feed the mixture, a little at a time. Spread it out through the day and night until it is all gone.(3-4 or 5 x per day) This will keep his blood calcium levels as steady as possible.
Hope this helps. :D

[UDoWhat]

Timber is doing good I know his recovery could take time but last night he curled his toes on his back legs and there has been a lot of movement in his back legs his finger doesn't seem to have gotten any better. He seems more like himself lately.:thankyou

:multi He curled his toes, he curles his toes!!!! Yesssssssssssssss!!:multi It will take a while but he will get much better. BUT movement in his back legs and toes is super fabulous!! :alright.gif
Can you get a picture of the toe? A picture would really help us to see what we are dealing with.

[Scooterzmom]

:jump :jump Yippee Timber!!!!!!!!! Keep going, we're rooting for ya!!!! :jump :fireworks

[UDoWhat]

Hi Crystal, How is sweet Timber this morning. I was able to see the toe. Is he on an antibiotic? If so, which one? As I said in the e-mail, you can put topical antibio. on the wounded toe also. Use Neosporin or any generic triple antibiotic ointment/cream. Just be sure to get the one that does not have zinc in the ingredient list. Put it on his toe 2 -3 x per day. If it does not get better or become necrotic and fall off on its own, as I said, you really should see the Vet. Hoping to see progress and happy times ahead for Timber and you. Did you get any SSD ? That would really help too. Let me know how it is going, as you can.:D

[astra]

:multi He curled his toes, he curles his toes!!!! Yesssssssssssssss!!:multi It will take a while but he will get much better. BUT movement in his back legs and toes is super fabulous!! :alright.gif
Can you get a picture of the toe? A picture would really help us to see what we are dealing with.
:multi :thumbsup :multi :wahoo :flash3 :multi

[island rehabber]

Definitely change his diet, good move! I never feed cashews or spinach anymore....I just don't want to take the chance of throwing my kids' calcium out of whack. (Besides, spinach wilts two seconds after you put it in the cage and turns into green-black slime....:yuck )

[pappy1264]

Crystal was having posting pics, so she sent them to me. His finger looks pretty bad. How is he today, Crystal?

[crystal timber]

thank you so much for posting those pics does anyone have any words of advice or hope for his finger? i am very happy to say today timber has started to slightly use his back right leg to get around his cage :thumbsup i see him making a little bit more progress every single day and to think less than a week ago i was told there is no hope and i should let him go makes me sad but i know my little guy is a fighter and i hope and pray he continues on!!!!

[CritterMom]

Will the vet you saw give you antibiotics for his finger? I am thinking of a drug called either Sulfatrim or SMZ-TMP. Broad spectrum sulfa based med, well tolerated, would help prevent infection in that finger (which looks like he will lose).

[crystal timber]

The vet that I saw I cannot get anything from. Timber is on baytril right now

[Gina]

Timber is doing good I know his recovery could take time but last night he curled his toes on his back legs and there has been a lot of movement in his back legs his finger doesn't seem to have gotten any better. He seems more like himself lately.:thankyou

:multi :multi :multi :multi :multi :wott :multi :multi :multi :multi :multi :multi

[CritterMom]

The vet that I saw I cannot get anything from. Timber is on baytril right now

That will do it!

[Ellymae]

Hi Crystal, what great advice you have gotten from everyone, and I am still learning even after doing this for 14 years. I had a paralyzed gray that I put in a 4 foot long aquarium so she had plenty of room to glide around. She had to have a bath every day (wrapped a rag around her to hold her and used the sprayer in the sink). Would then lay her on the counter and massage her hind legs...this was a daily routine. The aquarium made it easy to clean every day and she had a tendency to go in the same place all the time. She also had a nesting box with the lid used as a ramp, and lots of soft bedding. This might be a temporary solution other than a small cage, since the aquarium was 48" L X 18" W and about 18" deep.

Sounds like Timber is well on his way to recovery. I have such great respect for everyone on this board.

Elly

p.s I have had good luck using saline wound cleanser when one of my squirrels got and infected toe...it healed right up within a day or two. It comes in a spray can and you can get it at Walgreens. Just spray a little in the cap and dab a little on your finger to put on the squirrels toe.

[UDoWhat]

:wave123 Crystal , His toe does look bad but I think it will be ok. He may need Vet but since he is on Baytril you may see big improvement. Now I am sure that toe will become/is necrotic and will most likely drop off. That is what happened to a squirrel I had for rehab. The Vet did not want to take it off just let it become necrotic ( tissue die and fall off by itself) If the bone on the toe dies completely too you may not have to see Vet. I had a flying squirrel also that did the same thing but the bone didn't fall off. I had to take clippers and just cut it off. Don't do that yet. We have to be sure that the tissue and bone are dead like fingernails are. If not it could really hurt. Be sure to watch and smell for infection. (Yes smell, YUCK!) If it gets infected you will need to call that Vet that Island Rehabber told you about. You can also put topical Neosoprine (or generic triple antibiotic ointment ) on it. Just be sure that it does not have the ingredient zinc in the ingredient list. It won't hurt him if he licks it if it does not have zinc. What do others think of this toe? Please let us know how Timber is doing :poke Scritches to Timber! Will pray for a full recovery for him.
Marty

[muffinsquirrel]

Last year I got in two baby flyers that had been chewed up by their momma. One of them lost 1 toe on one back foot and 2 on the other foot. The other baby lost all but 2 toes on one back foot, and lost almost the entire other back foot. They both lived and are fine. The first one has learned to cope with no trouble, but the little one without the back foot has had to learn that there are things he can not do. He tried once to walk across the top of the cage like the other flyers were doing, and I had to get him down. And he can't get down a branch, but has learned to jump to get wherever he wants to go. He even runs on his wheel! So the loss of one toe shouldn't bother your baby at all. And when I get one with an injury, the toe usually just falls off. Just keep an eye on it in case of infection.

muffinsquirrel

[crystal timber]

i never received the cream for the urine scald. i started to use a&d ointment and it was a great help. i would like to still get that special cream i know it might be hard to come by and have no problem reimbursing. if not does anyone know any other otc creams i can buy for him that work as good? thank you again for all the help and advice i will try the saline wound solution on his finger today. i will never give up on healing my baby boy. :thumbsup


:thankyou

[Ellymae]

Has anyone on this board ever used any Bag Balm on a squirrel for urine burn?

Elly

[JLM27]

Awwww. Timber looks like such a sweet boy! I hope he gets well soon.

[UDoWhat]

Has anyone on this board ever used any Bag Balm on a squirrel for urine burn?

Elly
I have not used Bag Balm on a squirrel before but I have used it on my own hands in the past. Elly, do you use it on your squirrels for urine burn??? If so does it work well?
Also, Crystal & Elly, I often use a Homeopathic Medicine called Calendula ointment the maker is Boiron (France) I buy it at a store called David's Natural Shop. I think many homeopathic /vitamin shops, etc. would carry it. I use it on my squirrels and on myself. When I get scratches on my face from face plants I use the calendula ointment on my scratches. It heals the scratches incredibly fast. I also use it on cuts, scrapes, urine burns, and chapping after I clean and dry the area throughly. It heals super fast. For that reason it has been suggested NOT to use on the end of a male squirrel penis because it heals fast and will heal and close the end opening and can block and seal the penis end. It will heal right over. I think you could still use it just do not put on the end of the penis. It comes in a spray but I like the ointment best. The box did not have a web site listed just a phone #1-800-2647661.

[crystal timber]

timbers finger fell off :confused: what should i do? soak it in saline? put medicine or just leave it alone?

[lilidukes]

I have sent another package today. I was told it would be there Monday.

[pappy1264]

Is what is remaining pink or is there more black? Do you have more of the A/D ointment? You can put a little of that on, but you need to make sure it is rubbed in so there is nothing to cause him to lick it. Is he messing with it at all? He is still on the baytril, right? Did you ever get the cream? I tried to pm Lisa, but have not heard back from her. (Lisa, you must have been typing same time as me!)

[crystal timber]

ok thank you i didnt know what happened if everything is ok?

[crystal timber]

i dont see any more black i dont know if he really notices its even gone but i hope he is not in pain he is still on baytril got some bites to show it! i have ad ointment and neosporin?

[crystal timber]

he is chattering his teeth and very awake

[lilidukes]

he may of chewed it off. I sent more baytril and a little calcium carb powder. keep neo on it and watch for swelling, a Bad smell, or pus. Any pain meds??

[pappy1264]

Chattering his teeth could be from pain, or he is just very agitated. Do you have any more of the metacam? I would give him some tonight and tomorrow and then see how he is. Keep a close eye on him and watch for any signs he is chewing on it.

[UDoWhat]

i dont see any more black i dont know if he really notices its even gone but i hope he is not in pain he is still on baytril got some bites to show it! i have ad ointment and neosporin?
:wave123 Hi Crystal, As I mentioned in my post # 138 and my e-mail to you the other night when you e-mailed me the pictures of his toe, I thought his toe looked necrotic and would most likely just fall off by itself. It did! Great! That is a good thing, especially if he is not bothering his toe or even noticing it is gone. I would definately watch it and keep him on the Baytril for at least 7-10 days. Also put the Neosporin, and other cream on it, if you have it.

QUESTIONS :
* Is the stump red, swollen, infected with pus or other milky fluid, or smell bad?
* Is the toe dry?
* Is Timber licking or biting it?
* Did the bone fall off too?
* Can you e-mail the pictures to Nancy again so we can see it and advise to how it looks? Or e-mail to me?
* How is the movement in Timber's back legs.
* Can you give sweet Timber some tummy rubs for me? :D

Let us know how he is and if we can help in anyway. mjs

[crystal timber]

timbers bone did fall off too. its a little red and swollen. not too bad the size of the wound itself is a lot smallr that the size of his finger i had been putting medicine on it twice a day so maybe it was partially healed before it fell off. i feel so bad when i walk towards the cage he will run and hide he is very sick of me giving medicine twice a day! i hope he doesnt hate me in the end. his back legs are moving but not to be used for walking. he tries sometimes. i bought him some rodent blocks and eveyday he pushes them out the front of his cage. do they have any different flavored ones?

[island rehabber]

Try a bag of Henry's Picky Blocks. When I had to overwinter two squirrels last year who wouldn't touch rodent block, I was panicked because I figured by spring they'd both have MBD. :shakehead The Picky's won them over. They LOVED them. :thumbsup

[Ellymae]

Re: post on 6/23/11

Designed for dry, chapped cow udders, Bag Balm works great for any animal's skin. Treat your pet's chapped or brush-burned area with Bag Balm for soothing, moisturizing relief. In case of deep puncture wounds seek medical help. Discontinue use if rash or irritation occurs.

p.s. My surgeon from the Mayo Clinic suggested this for me.

[UDoWhat]

:wave123 Crystal and Timber, I know how hard it is to get squirrels that are not use to eating block to eat it. I will give you the link to the Henrys Healthy Pets site. The owner is a member of TSB and created HHB's for the best in squirrel nutrition. You can even give her a call and talk about what she thinks would help you the most with Timber. Squirrels who won't eat regular block will usually eat her products. http://www.henryspets.com/ Check out her site.
Keep putting the cream/ointment on Timbers toe. Let us know how it is going. Try the Henry's site for the squirrel block. Also you can try grinding the block you have and add some ground nuts to it and some apple sauce to make a block/nut ball . This is not ideal forever but for a while to get him to try the block you may try this . You can add anything you think he will eat to the ground up block/nut mix. (Most squirrels love avocado) You could try ground block, ground nuts, applesauce or baby food fruit to moisten the block/nut mixture. Even mashed avocado to the mix too. The point is to get him use to the block taste and in time gradually reduce the other ingredients until he will eat mostly block or all block. Also don't worry if he tries to hide from you. That is his little trick to tell you he doesn't want to take his meds or calcium. Just like a kid would do to his "mom". Don't let him be "in charge". Also it is important to handle him so he is use to it. He is a "special needs" kid now and needs to be use to being handled to make his and your life easier. Keep in touch. Timber is lucky to have you. :thumbsup

[Wonkawillie]

My squirrels really hate rodent block also, but I have made Boo-Balls with the blocks and they LOVE them! So they get the rodent black into them, plus the nutrition of the Fox Valley formula all in one.

[crystal timber]

i received the package in the mail today thank you lilidukes! s:thankyou o i was just wondering how much and how often should i give the calcium carb powder?
:rotfl :jump

[lilidukes]

Crystal and Timber you are both so very welcome.

Is the SSD working on the urine scald?? Put it on the toe stump too.

The calcium powder you can sprinkle a tiny bit on his favorite foods everyday.

[pappy1264]

Crystal, how is Timber doing?

[crystal timber]

He's doing so much better! Finger is pretty healed he seems like himself again not so sad and depresed . He is moving his back legs but not much I don't know if we are at a stand still hopefully this is not the full extent of his progress I will sit there and keep lighty pulling on his tail fur and he ill keep flicking it away from me. I do therapy with his legs and massage his muscles every day what is the recommended amout of times perday to do it? I try as often as I can and as long as he can tolerate it . He is starting to try to climb all over the place only with front legs of course. I hope he doesn't forget how to use his back legs from lack of using them and hopefully he makes more progress.

[astra]

He's doing so much better! Finger is pretty healed he seems like himself again not so sad and depresed . He is moving his back legs but not much I don't know if we are at a stand still hopefully this is not the full extent of his progress I will sit there and keep lighty pulling on his tail fur and he ill keep flicking it away from me. I do therapy with his legs and massage his muscles every day what is the recommended amout of times perday to do it? I try as often as I can and as long as he can tolerate it . He is starting to try to climb all over the place only with front legs of course. I hope he doesn't forget how to use his back legs from lack of using them and hopefully he makes more progress.
so good to hear that he is doing better.
As for the therapy - what you are doing "as often as you can and as long as he can tolerate it" sounds fine.
Usually, a rule of thumb with any exercise increase is to increase it by about 10% in intensity and duration , but it all comes down to individual tolerance.
I also remember that some ppl i knew did their exercises (recovering from injuries and/or other debilitating illnesses) 3 times a day: after breakfast, daytime and evening.
Massage sessions can be as short as 15 min and as long as 30-40min., again depending on intensity. I cannot imagine a squirrel :) could have enough patience for a 30min massage, but you never know. If you break it down into shorter sessions throughout the day, that will be just fine.

Go by how he tolerates it and by the progress he makes.

I don't think he'll forget how to use his legs... I am not a vet, so I don't know how it works in animals, but in humans, after being bed-ridden for a prolonged period of time, they sort of learn how to walk again. Not because they forgot how to (we cannot forget how to), but because muscles and bones need time to adjust to moving again, as they become very weakened and, sometimes, atrophied to various degrees.

But with your massage and help, he will be fine if he does have to "re-learn" how to
So far, it sounds like he is making progress and that's wonderful!

[UDoWhat]

so good to hear that he is doing better.
As for the therapy - what you are doing "as often as you can and as long as he can tolerate it" sounds fine.
Usually, a rule of thumb with any exercise increase is to increase it by about 10% in intensity and duration , but it all comes down to individual tolerance.
I also remember that some ppl i knew did their exercises (recovering from injuries and/or other debilitating illnesses) 3 times a day: after breakfast, daytime and evening.
Massage sessions can be as short as 15 min and as long as 30-40min., again depending on intensity. I cannot imagine a squirrel :) could have enough patience for a 30min massage, but you never know. If you break it down into shorter sessions throughout the day, that will be just fine.

Go by how he tolerates it and by the progress he makes.

I don't think he'll forget how to use his legs... I am not a vet, so I don't know how it works in animals, but in humans, after being bed-ridden for a prolonged period of time, they sort of learn how to walk again. Not because they forgot how to (we cannot forget how to), but because muscles and bones need time to adjust to moving again, as they become very weakened and, sometimes, atrophied to various degrees.

But with your massage and help, he will be fine if he does have to "re-learn" how to
So far, it sounds like he is making progress and that's wonderful!

:goodpost
Astra is right on with this. Remember Timber should be on the increased calcium regimen/schedule for at least 8 weeks in total, 4-5 x per day. I know it seems like he has already been on the increased daily calcium for 8 YEARS but he still has a while to go. :rotfl He will get better even from this point. Keep us updated. Best scritches to Timber .:Love_Icon :Love_Icon Pictures when you can .:poke

[lilidukes]

Timbers recovery is not going to be a quick thing you are looking at weeks.

Is the SSD working?? If you think you will need more let me know so I can start work on getting more to you.

Watch to see if he is attempting to lift himself up to pee. this will be first. He has not forgotten how to use his rear legs and if watched carefully you will see him make efforts. Take him outside fresh air and sunshine works miracles too. I like to do this after baths while you have them wrapped up tight though beware of an escape attempt.

[astra]

Timbers recovery is not going to be a quick thing you are looking at weeks.

Is the SSD working?? If you think you will need more let me know so I can start work on getting more to you.

Watch to see if he is attempting to lift himself up to pee. this will be first. He has not forgotten how to use his rear legs and if watched carefully you will see him make efforts. Take him outside fresh air and sunshine works miracles too. I like to do this after baths while you have them wrapped up tight though beware of an escape attempt.
excellent point by lilidukes!
Don't be deceived by his disability - they can scoot and move very fast despite it all, if they decide to. He is a squirrel after all, ;-) and, therefore, will try to escape if he wants to.

[lilidukes]

Hows Timber doing???:dono

[crystal timber]

timber is about the same right but i just weighem him and he gained 1/4 pound :rotfl which is really good he was looking very thin and sad looking so i am very happy he looks healthier and is being himself

[UDoWhat]

:multi Yessss! So glad to hear Timber is better. The weight gain is good just watch for too much weight. Keep up the calcium everyday for a total of 8 weeks. How is his toe? I'm so happy Timber has a wonderful Mom to take care of him!:thankyou Maybe pictures when you can.:poke

Marty

[lilidukes]

Looking for an update.....Did the silvadene clear up the urine scald???:grouphug :grouphug

[UDoWhat]

Looking for an update.....Did the silvadene clear up the urine scald???:grouphug :grouphug
:poke What she said. Where is our sweet Timber and his Mom, Crystal? We miss knowing about Timber. When you can, let us know. :wave123

Marty

[crystal timber]

Very sorry I haven't been on I wish I knew had to upload pics I have a lot of cute ones of timber:-) well timber hasn't made a real lot of progress he is moving his legs and tale limited. His urine scald is completely healed all fur grown back :D I haven't saw him lift to pee though. I am a little woried about him getting too fat he is not getting to much excersize

[UDoWhat]

Very sorry I haven't been on I wish I knew had to upload pics I have a lot of cute ones of timber:-) well timber hasn't made a real lot of progress he is moving his legs and tale limited. His urine scald is completely healed all fur grown back :D I haven't saw him lift to pee though. I am a little woried about him getting too fat he is not getting to much excersize
I am glad that the urine scald is healed. Don't be discouraged with the limited movement in his back end. He may yet improve. You may have to give him a little physical therapy so he can gain more exercise. More updates as you can.
Sritchens to Timber.:Love_Icon

Marty

[astra]

i don't see him move, so it's hard for me to suggest anything specific, but in general terms, maybe, you could come up with some sort of games - exercises that would encourage him to move a bit more, and thus, might help with progress?...
It will depend on his condition and what he is capable of right now, so start with something not very challenging and see how he does so that he doesn't overexert himself too soon and doesn't hurt himself more by trying to do more than he can at the moment. So, you'll need to keep watching, observing and monitoring his movements while you are playing.

Games-exercises can be anything... again, I can't suggest anything specific because I can't see him, but, maybe, along the lines of wrestling with your hand (wearing a glove), wrestling with you holding a stuffie, something that would encourage him to move/run towards and away from you, or after a stuffie... Something like that.

Maybe, you could hold a stuffie just enough above his head (enough not to make him do too much too soon), so that he would try to reach it, thus trying to use his legs more?... Just do it on something VERY padded... maybe, on the bed or something like that, that will be 100% safe for him?

Just thinking....

[lilidukes]

Don't worry about him getting fat. These kids use a lot of energy to help heal themselves and when he feels better he will start moving around a lot even if he never regains all the use of his back legs.

If you are still bathing him keep trying the water therapy we discussed way back gentle massage and stretching the legs as much as he will allow is good.

Be sure to watch or I should say smell for any change in the odor of his urine UTI's can happen quickly sometimes.

Give him some supervised out of cage time if he wants it.

Good to hear the scald is all better:grouphug :grouphug :grouphug :grouphug

[astra]

If you are still bathing him keep trying the water therapy we discussed way back gentle massage and stretching the legs as much as he will allow is good.

grouphug :grouphug :grouphug :grouphug
:goodpost
water therapy is always good. Stretching under water can be very powerful yet rather more gentle on the tissues... and yes, stretching is important: injured muscles, esp. without much use, tend to stiffen up a lot. So, yes - massage and stretching, esp. in water!!!!!:thumbsup

[pappy1264]

You may want to pick him up a little life vest for squirrels (remember the water skiing squirrel) and try seeing if he will use the legs in water (supervised at all times, of course!) Glad to hear the urine scald is better.

[astra]

You may want to pick him up a little life vest for squirrels (remember the water skiing squirrel) and try seeing if he will use the legs in water (supervised at all times, of course!) Glad to hear the urine scald is better.
what a genius idea! :thumbsup :)

[crystal timber]

Timber is doing good . Heseems to be shedding a lot though and he never shed that much last summer? Could he be stressed out? Is it normal?:osnap