Flash needs help

[jo_schmoe]

The past two days Flash has made a turn downhill.
Im at a loss....and I need all of your help and ideas you can possibly give me.
His potty is very bright yellow....could this be from dehydration or the vetri-dmg?
He has two big dry patches of skin under his arms and some dry scaly skin on his face. I can try and get pics here in a minute.
His pooh is the color of sea foam...has been for about 4 days now.
His appetite is good...he eats and drinks a lot of water.
He just doesn't seem like himself. Im really worried.
I have emailed Dr. Pilny to see what he thinks.

[CritterMom]

Jo, get in touch with Chris Clark and see if the yellow urine is a side effect of the Ventri.

Is he getting any kind of probiotic, either from yogurt of another form?

I am wondering if he is having issues with the coconut oil. I have been kicking this around in my head for a while...

[stosh2010]

Oh ....
Please let this be a passing issue....TEAM FLASH is praying up a Storm

[CritterMom]

This is what I am thinking of as a sub for the coconut - I have some experience with this stuff - emu oil:

http://www.longviewfarms.com/

It is available from several places but my Net Nanny at work won't let me open the sites. You can look into it. I have used it on my animals (and myself) for years...

[pappy1264]

Generally a darker pee is indicitive of dehydration (unless just the first pee of the day, which is usually a bit darker). Green poop 'usually' indicates infection, has he had any flagyl? This poor boy. I wish I had more answers for you. Sending tons of prayers and healing thoughts and stregnth, as I can imagine how hard this has to be on you.

[Nancy in New York]

OMG Flash....we have to pull out all stops for Flash. Let's all put our heads together and think and pool your resources and ask anybody you know with great squirrel experience to help.

[jo_schmoe]

Jo, get in touch with Chris Clark and see if the yellow urine is a side effect of the Ventri.

Is he getting any kind of probiotic, either from yogurt of another form?

I am wondering if he is having issues with the coconut oil. I have been kicking this around in my head for a while...
Well...this is what I know about coconut oil. It can kill yeast and fungus...but it also will dry our your skin. Way back in the day ( traveling tarot card reader days) I used to make soap. When I used more than 25% coconut oil...it dried out your skin. I had to add other oils to it to reverse this effect.
I was thinking the same thing....so I cut back the coconut oil rubs to every other day...and backed them with aloe. It was at this time that he scratched himself bloody. I put him back on the oil and no more itching at all.
Im thinking that his fungus/ yeast thing is way too serious for only the coconut oil. Im seriously at my wits end. I can't sleep at night...I'm always checking on him.
Ive tried on several occasions to get ahold of Chris....only contact I have been able to manage is the sale of the Vetri DMG. I've left a few messages...but have't heard back.

[jo_schmoe]

Generally a darker pee is indicitive of dehydration (unless just the first pee of the day, which is usually a bit darker). Green poop 'usually' indicates infection, has he had any flagyl? This poor boy. I wish I had more answers for you. Sending tons of prayers and healing thoughts and stregnth, as I can imagine how hard this has to be on you.
He was on Flagyl for 7 days.
Also on Sulfatrim for 14 days.
I have more flagyl....:dono

[CritterMom]

I did some reading on candida the other day. There are all kinds of home remedies, but I am wondering if an anti-fungal is needed here and what it would be. It would be great if Pilney responds.

Please do a little reading about the emu oil. I have had great luck with this stuff - I use it one wounds all the time and it heals them like lightening. It has some antibacterial properties, and one thing that coconut oil does not - it has such a small molecular structure it is able to actually penetrate the epidermis and get into the dermal layer.

[Jackie in Tampa]

Hi Flash:grouphug
sending good good good to ya sweet squirrel!


...Animax
http://www.drugs.com/vet/animax-cream.html

formerly Panalog

[Alcippe]

Oh no! Sending healing thoughts and prayers for Flash. I have my two babies on Vetri-DMG and it does not turn their pee darker. I just fed them and got potty habits and their pee is a very light yellow, nearly clear. (And this is the first pee since the Vetri-DMG this morning)

[jo_schmoe]

I did some reading on candida the other day. There are all kinds of home remedies, but I am wondering if an anti-fungal is needed here and what it would be. It would be great if Pilney responds.

Please do a little reading about the emu oil. I have had great luck with this stuff - I use it one wounds all the time and it heals them like lightening. It has some antibacterial properties, and one thing that coconut oil does not - it has such a small molecular structure it is able to actually penetrate the epidermis and get into the dermal layer.
Good article! Sounds like I should give it shot. I was also thinking about grapeseed oil. I used it as an extra moisturizer in facial soap. Its also edible.
My mother said hemp oil which I need to look into more.
I just called the pharmacy to see if by chance they had any emu oil. That was a big fat no. The man that answered the phone said, " Maam....I dont know about oil for your emul....I dont know anything about computers" :thinking .
I just gave up...I guess he thought my email needed to be oiled.
I will have to order it and because I live in the middle of nowhere it will take about 5 days. I need something I can get here...and like today!
Here's why. Look at him!!! He's drying out like a raisin!!
Anything you guys can think of I appreciate.
His ears and skin look like this every morning. Its a good morning if he hasn't scratched himself bloody. This is before I clean his ears and rub off the dry skin.

[pappy1264]

Is there any way you can somehow get a small scrape done to see if they can see what is causing this? My heart just breaks looking at him. He is fighting so hard. I just want to hold him and make him better....:grouphug

[jo_schmoe]

He just drank 8 ccs of Fv like a champ!

[pappy1264]

Thats good....please God, help Flash to get through this!

[jo_schmoe]

Oh no! Sending healing thoughts and prayers for Flash. I have my two babies on Vetri-DMG and it does not turn their pee darker. I just fed them and got potty habits and their pee is a very light yellow, nearly clear. (And this is the first pee since the Vetri-DMG this morning)
Thank you!! Then he is dehydrated. The pinch test isnt so accurate on him because he so wrinkly anyways.
I will give him another Fv feeding in an hour or so. He just now drank 8 ccs. Good boy Flash!!
My heart stopped pounding out of my chest for a second!!
Still waiting to hear from Pilny.

[mpetys]

Since we are brainstorming, I am going to throw this out here. May not be of help but who knows. What about eucern lotion for the itchiing? I have a nephew who was born with allergies to almost everything. He itched all the time and had extremely dry skin. When he was a baby, he had to sleep with socks on his hands because he would scratch himself until he bled. One time when he was about 18 months old, I was sleeping with him on a pallet on the floor and he had his socks on. He woke me up crying, begging me to "itch" me.

Anyhow, they used Eucerin cream all over his body and it helped. Here is some info from http://www.livestrong.com/article/218329-eucerin-ingredients/

Overview
Eucerin is the brand name for a dermatological skin cream that helps to treat common skin conditions such as dryness, itching, irritation and inflammatory skin disorders such as eczema. This skin cream is sold without a prescription and is available in a variety of formulas for varying skin problems.

Uses
Eucerin is a brand name skin cream that comes in a variety of types for varying skin conditions. It is used as a dermatology-grade skin cream that offers moisturizing and protective benefits. Eucerin helps to soothe irritated and inflamed skin due to severe dryness, sun irritation, allergic contact dermatitis, eczema and other conditions.

Eucerin Formulas
According to the manufacturers, Eucerin Dermatological Skincare, Eucerin Omega formulas have the added ingredients of essential fatty acids called Omega-6 fatty acids and licochalcone. The Omega-6 fatty acids are derived from plant extracts such as Evening Primrose oil and grape seed oil and help to strengthen the tight barriers between skin cells.



The compound licochalcone is an extract from the licorice root and is used as a soothing agent to reduce skin inflammation and irriitation. Eucerin's anti-itch cream formula contains added menthol for skin cooling and oatmeal for relieving skin irritation. Another formula for severe dry, flaky skin contains the ingredient urea to trap moisture into skin.

Other Ingredients
Additional ingredients in Eucerin skin creams are listed by NetDoctor.co.uk and include cetyl alcohol and lanolin alcohol. The manufacturer explains that though alcohol substances are thought to be drying to the skin, these two type of alcohols are emulsifying agents and have a moisturizing effect on the skin.

Fragrances
Eucerin skin creams are labeled "Fragrance-free" which means that the product contains no fragrances whatsoever.

Like I said, may not be helpful at all but then again, maybe there will be something.

[CritterMom]

http://www.emuoildepot.com/

That is where to order.

For local possibilities, try any makeup shops, cosmetic places - even the cosmetics counter at places like Macy's - this is used a LOT as a cosmetic.

[stepnstone]

Prayers for Flash. :grouphug
Besides the obvious condition. Is there something in his surrounding living environment that could be drying him out? Ac, heat, detergents in his bedding, dust mites, etc... :dono

[stosh2010]

I just gave up...I guess he thought my email needed to be oiled..
“Faith is a knowledge within the heart, beyond the reach of proof.” --Kahlil Gibran

We are praying hard ----that FLASH turns the corner, and ITCHES no more, has clear urine, and grows a pelt like a beaver.

[gs1]

:grouphug

[Alcippe]

http://www.emuoildepot.com/

That is where to order.

For local possibilities, try any makeup shops, cosmetic places - even the cosmetics counter at places like Macy's - this is used a LOT as a cosmetic.

Would a health food store carry it?

[astra]

Is there any way you can somehow get a small scrape done to see if they can see what is causing this? My heart just breaks looking at him. He is fighting so hard. I just want to hold him and make him better....:grouphug
that's what i thought of, too...
is there a way to take whatever you clean out of his ears and whatever you could get off his skin, or his blankies and overnight it to a vet (e.g., Dr. Pilny?)... poor little Flash:grouphug :grouphug :grouphug

[jo_schmoe]

Would a health food store carry it?
I just found it at a place called Mothers in Fargo. Its a health food store/head shop that I called about hemp oil. They also have emu oil.
She is shipping them both out today.
He's already looking better...and just drank 6 ccs of water/pedialite.
Im just going to hold him for awhile....he seems to feel better when I do.
I called the vet to see if he had gotten his Otomax in yet...and wouldnt ya know it...he just plain forgot to order it!!!! Im baseball bat angry right now.

[jo_schmoe]

that's what i thought of, too...
is there a way to take whatever you clean out of his ears and whatever you could get off his skin, or his blankies and overnight it to a vet (e.g., Dr. Pilny?)... poor little Flash:grouphug :grouphug :grouphug
If he agreed to that you bet I would. I had the vet here look...said he sent it off...and said it was a yeast infection. Said he would order some Otomax but if you read the post below..you will see that didn't go so well.
If there was a rehabber in my state...who could do better for him and get him in to see someone who knows about squirrels...I would hand him over in a heartbeat! But the fact of the matter is...there isn't a rehabber here....Im the best chance this guy has. I feel like Im failing him....I have a vet who doesnt give two squats about a squirrel like Flash....BUT I DO!!!
Im losing my mind......

[astra]

If he agreed to that you bet I would. I had the vet here look...said he sent it off...and said it was a yeast infection. Said he would order some Otomax but if you read the post below..you will see that didn't go so well.
If there was a rehabber in my state...who could do better for him and get him in to see someone who knows about squirrels...I would hand him over in a heartbeat! But the fact of the matter is...there isn't a rehabber here....Im the best chance this guy has. I feel like Im failing him....I have a vet who doesnt give two squats about a squirrel like Flash....BUT I DO!!!
Im losing my mind......
:grouphug :Love_Icon :grouphug :Love_Icon :grouphug ....oh goodness...
but you are not failing him... you are doing everything you can and beyond...there is still much hope... he ate well - that's a good sign! Very good sign!... there are new things to try: emu oil and all that other stuff that ppl just posted about... there is still much hope:grouphug :grouphug :grouphug

[rygel1hardt]

Misty from www.squirrelstore.com Has the emu oil in several sizes. I have used her store for many years and she ships QUICK! When you get to her home page you can just type in emu oil and it brings in right up. Stacey
http://www.emuoildepot.com/

That is where to order.

For local possibilities, try any makeup shops, cosmetic places - even the cosmetics counter at places like Macy's - this is used a LOT as a cosmetic.

[jo_schmoe]

Emu oil is ordered. Should be here tomorrow as its coming from Fargo.
Is there anything I can use on him today that I would just have in the house.
Heres what I came up with. ( keep in mind I have no clue whats ok)
Olive oil
Peanut oil
apple cider vinegar
baking soda
Burts Bees Body Butter

[Rainy9]

Emu oil is ordered. Should be here tomorrow as its coming from Fargo.
Is there anything I can use on him today that I would just have in the house.
Heres what I came up with. ( keep in mind I have no clue whats ok)
Olive oil
Peanut oil
apple cider vinegar
baking soda
Burts Bees Body Butter

I can't stop thinking about oatmeal for this issue. You know how they do oatmeal baths for people with eczema and other irritations. Maybe you could do something with oatmeal and a warm wet wash cloth and kinda wrap him in it or do a sorta sponge bath that way? I dunno if it would help with the dryness though, but could help with the irritation.

Not sure about the olvie oil...I have a bar of olive oil soap(it's called soap and yet there are no harsh soaps in it. :thinking) but whenever I use it it dries the buhgeezus out of my skin!(although it does feel great going on :D)

[CritterMom]

OK, some thoughts – I just sat in a meeting scribbling notes furiously…but they were all about Flash! I have NO idea what the meeting was about…:osnap

We keep pinkies in plastic bins in order to keep the humidity around them really high because all of the unfurred skin is just a way for hydration to escape them. Flash is a grown pinkie. So I think that additional hydration is going to be the name of the game for this guy for a long time. You will only want to do the electrolyte solution for 24 hours; after that you can experiment. I would try water with a little bit of yogurt in it – get more probiotics in him while you are at it.

When you do the emu oil, try this: water down the aloe you have and wipe the boy down with that first. Then, while he is still wet, rub him down with the emu oil. This is how I use it on my face – I wash it and apply the oil while it is still wet. It is wild stuff – it sucks right in and within an hour you won’t even see any shine left on the skin from it. Anything applied under it will be carried into the skin by the oil. That way he is getting moisture from the inside with the rehydration and moisture from the outside from the humidifier you are running plus the moisture from the oil/aloe mix.

I like the idea of some sort of cream, too – something water based. The animex/panalog that Jackie mentioned is an antibacterial that may help the yeast infection some, but any water based moisture filled cream, preferably without scent or lanolin will bring water to the skin too. Even the watered down RR cream…

[jo_schmoe]

OK, some thoughts – I just sat in a meeting scribbling notes furiously…but they were all about Flash! I have NO idea what the meeting was about…:osnap

We keep pinkies in plastic bins in order to keep the humidity around them really high because all of the unfurred skin is just a way for hydration to escape them. Flash is a grown pinkie. So I think that additional hydration is going to be the name of the game for this guy for a long time. You will only want to do the electrolyte solution for 24 hours; after that you can experiment. I would try water with a little bit of yogurt in it – get more probiotics in him while you are at it.

When you do the emu oil, try this: water down the aloe you have and wipe the boy down with that first. Then, while he is still wet, rub him down with the emu oil. This is how I use it on my face – I wash it and apply the oil while it is still wet. It is wild stuff – it sucks right in and within an hour you won’t even see any shine left on the skin from it. Anything applied under it will be carried into the skin by the oil. That way he is getting moisture from the inside with the rehydration and moisture from the outside from the humidifier you are running plus the moisture from the oil/aloe mix.

I like the idea of some sort of cream, too – something water based. The animex/panalog that Jackie mentioned is an antibacterial that may help the yeast infection some, but any water based moisture filled cream, preferably without scent or lanolin will bring water to the skin too. Even the watered down RR cream…
That sounds great to me. When the oil arrives that is exactly what I will do.
What about for today though??

[Rainy9]

OK, some thoughts – I just sat in a meeting scribbling notes furiously…but they were all about Flash! I have NO idea what the meeting was about…:osnap

We keep pinkies in plastic bins in order to keep the humidity around them really high because all of the unfurred skin is just a way for hydration to escape them. Flash is a grown pinkie. So I think that additional hydration is going to be the name of the game for this guy for a long time. You will only want to do the electrolyte solution for 24 hours; after that you can experiment. I would try water with a little bit of yogurt in it – get more probiotics in him while you are at it.

When you do the emu oil, try this: water down the aloe you have and wipe the boy down with that first. Then, while he is still wet, rub him down with the emu oil. This is how I use it on my face – I wash it and apply the oil while it is still wet. It is wild stuff – it sucks right in and within an hour you won’t even see any shine left on the skin from it. Anything applied under it will be carried into the skin by the oil. That way he is getting moisture from the inside with the rehydration and moisture from the outside from the humidifier you are running plus the moisture from the oil/aloe mix.

I like the idea of some sort of cream, too – something water based. The animex/panalog that Jackie mentioned is an antibacterial that may help the yeast infection some, but any water based moisture filled cream, preferably without scent or lanolin will bring water to the skin too. Even the watered down RR cream…

Great thinking! I think your idea for the hydration, humidity and your hydrating the skin procedure sound like a good way to go.

I may have to try your face moisturizing technique myself!

[Rainy9]

That sounds great to me. When the oil arrives that is exactly what I will do.
What about for today though??

Dunno if you've come across this already? Lots of natural remedies for dry skin. I think they mention a few of the things that you mentioned you have available. And honey! or an avacado paste! Whoa....I wouldn't want him to eat himself, but that does sound like something that could work if it weren't so tasty!

Here's the link:
http://www.home-remedies-for-you.com/25-natural-remedies-for-dry-skin.html

[jo_schmoe]

I can't stop thinking about oatmeal for this issue. You know how they do oatmeal baths for people with eczema and other irritations. Maybe you could do something with oatmeal and a warm wet wash cloth and kinda wrap him in it or do a sorta sponge bath that way? I dunno if it would help with the dryness though, but could help with the irritation.

Not sure about the olvie oil...I have a bar of olive oil soap(it's called soap and yet there are no harsh soaps in it. :thinking) but whenever I use it it dries the buhgeezus out of my skin!(although it does feel great going on :D)
I use an oatmeal baking soda bath for him. It does soothe his skin.
Here's another thought...Its down right cold here. We are in a freeze warning until Thursday...its a balmy 42 out right now. Tonight should be in the high 20's. This cold blast came all of a sudden. Its got to be sucking all the moisture out of the air. I am running a hot steam humidifier in his room. He is still all snuggled up in his warm fleece inside my hoodie. When I put him back in his cage I will give him a warm sock buddy to help.

[SammysMom]

Is there anyone who knows pros or cons about olive oil for this sort of situation? I use a homemade soap made with olive oil and it works wonders. I wasn't sure if it did or not until I recently ran out of it and a few days later was thinking that the season change was already drying my face, but then remembered the lack of my soap. I just thought since it is food grade it might be a good option that wouldn't have ill effects if ingested. :grouphug (((Flash))):grouphug
I was also just thinking about the fact that if use chapstick too much in the winter, my lips sort of stop producing their own protection and I become dependent on the chapstick. Could his skin be slacking off on the natural hydration due to external applications?

[Baxied]

:grouphug Jo, just want you to know that I'm pulling for you & Flash!!:grouphug

[grinn75]

I think olive oil diluted with water would be your best bet for today.

You might also want to consider calenduala. Calendula promotes healing and has antisceptic properties. I have to do a little more research because I'm not sure if they make an ointment specifically for animals. If they don't though I'm sure I can find a homeopathic oral form that you could give him. It's often used on dogs and cats that have severe itching from allergies.

[Syntdea]

You can use the olive oil. It's been used for thousands of years as a skin conditioner. I have used it one my hands and it does wonders.

[CritterMom]

Jo, what is in the Burt's Bees?

[jo_schmoe]

Jo, what is in the Burt's Bees?
Water, sunflower oil, stearic acid ( vegetable fat), vegetable glycerin, beeswax, sesame seed oil, shea butter, cocoa butter, macadamia nut oil, rosehips seed oil, fragrance, willowback extract, borage oil, xanthan gum, rosemary leaf extract, tocopherol ( Vit. E), ladys mantle leaf extract, plantain leaf extract, calendula flower extract, sucrose stearate ( sugar emilsifier), retinyl palmitate ( Vit A), sodium borate ( natural borax) chlophenesin, phenoxyethanol.
*chlorphenesin and phenoxyethanol are paraben-free preservatives.

[SammysMom]

Burt's Bees looks fine except possibly the fragrance which might cause irritation.:dono

[jo_schmoe]

Burt's Bees looks fine except possibly the fragrance which might cause irritation.:dono
I was worried about that...and natural borax. Not quite sure what that is. I use borax in my laundry to boost the soap power and soften the water. Maybe its just the name that scares me.:dono

[Syntdea]

How strong is the fragrance in the Burt's Bees? I ask, because with him being as sensitive as he is, it might be too much for him. If you have access to beeswax you can always melt that over a double boiler and add some oil to it (olive or grapeseed or whatever you have) you want enough oil so that it will melt easily, pour into an ice cube tray, let it set up until solid, and then smooth that on him. The oil with condition his skin, and the wax will prevent moisture loss, and all the ingredients are edible. Also, no worries about fragrances and preservitives. I've made it several times and it works for me (I have sensitive skin).

[grinn75]

Borax would not be good if ingested. Often used as a natural insecticide. In this cream it is probably used as a buffer to maintain pH of the cream.

I couldn't find a calendula ointment that could be safely ingested but did find a cleanser that has calendula in it if you would like to try it instead of the oatmeal baths, http://www.nativeremedies.com/petalive/clenzor-first-aid-antiseptic-cat-dog.html . It's safe for small animals.

I did find a homeopathic remedy for skin allergies. Not sure if he has that going on with everything else but the conditions it treats are the same regardless. It can't hurt and is safe for small animals. http://www.nativeremedies.com/petalive/allergyitchease-cats-dogs-skin-allergies.html

[jo_schmoe]

Borax would not be good if ingested. Often used as a natural insecticide. In this cream it is probably used as a buffer to maintain pH of the cream.

I couldn't find a calendula ointment that could be safely ingested but did find a cleanser that has calendula in it if you would like to try it instead of the oatmeal baths, http://www.nativeremedies.com/petalive/clenzor-first-aid-antiseptic-cat-dog.html . It's safe for small animals.

I did find a homeopathic remedy for skin allergies. Not sure if he has that going on with everything else but the conditions it treats are the same regardless. It can't hurt and is safe for small animals. http://www.nativeremedies.com/petalive/allergyitchease-cats-dogs-skin-allergies.html
Ok...good to know and thank you for clearing that up.
Both of those products look good to me.
Like I said I am willing to try anything.

[jo_schmoe]

How strong is the fragrance in the Burt's Bees? I ask, because with him being as sensitive as he is, it might be too much for him. If you have access to beeswax you can always melt that over a double boiler and add some oil to it (olive or grapeseed or whatever you have) you want enough oil so that it will melt easily, pour into an ice cube tray, let it set up until solid, and then smooth that on him. The oil with condition his skin, and the wax will prevent moisture loss, and all the ingredients are edible. Also, no worries about fragrances and preservitives. I've made it several times and it works for me (I have sensitive skin).
ANd this is a wonderful idea! Im going to try this too. We have a lot of apiaries here....I may go see if the have some beeswax I can buy.

[stosh2010]

Water, sunflower oil, stearic acid ( vegetable fat), vegetable glycerin, beeswax, sesame seed oil, shea butter, cocoa butterRamaMama uses a Shea Butter cream every day. It is the only body cream she prefers. I wish I knew if it is OK for critters.

I am running a hot steam humidifier in his room
can the humidifier be placed closer to his sleeping area? can you "tent" his bed with the steam?? Or is that too much ??

Im the best chance this guy has. I feel like Im failing him....
You are the reason--the ONLY reason FLASH is sleeping in a warm safe home and being LOVED like NO OTHER. So dismiss the "failing him" thoughts. You are the best Squirrel MOM he could ever wish for.

[jo_schmoe]

RamaMama uses a Shea Butter cream every day. It is the only body cream she prefers. I wish I knew if it is OK for critters.

can the humidifier be placed closer to his sleeping area? can you "tent" his bed with the steam?? Or is that too much ??

You are the reason--the ONLY reason FLASH is sleeping in a warm safe home and being LOVED like NO OTHER. So dismiss the "failing him" thoughts. You are the best Squirrel MOM he could ever wish for.
Stosh...I like the idea of tenting him.
Anyone else have any input on this??

[grinn75]

An ENT actually recommended to use vinegar for a yeasty ear infection for a friends daughter. So vinegar might be a good option for Flashes ears. http://www.ehow.com/way_5343515_apple-cider-vinegar-cures-candida.html (http://www.ehow.com/way_5343515_apple-cider-vinegar-cures-candida.html)

I think tenting to increase the humidity might be a good idea. You want to make sure not too much humidity and avoid things like pneumonia.

[Syntdea]

I would be leery of that much moisture in and around surfaces that can harbour mould. I would also worry that too much moisture would make it hard for him to breathe (think about how it is harder to breathe with the humidity is high). If you wanted to do it for a short period of time while supervising him it wouldn't hurt, but if the humidifier is already near his cage I don't see how much it would help.
Dry air can dry you out, but you can still have dry skin in humid conditions. I would focus on making sure he drinks enough fluids, put something on to add moisture to his skin and something to lock it in (oil and beeswax mix do both), and getting him tested for some sort of fungal infection (which if he has you might need to go with something perscription since the coconut oil isn't doing the trick). If there is no infection, the above should help, and when the emu oil comes in you can add that in, either on it's own or before the beeswax mix (emu oil is amazing).
Remember no matter who he was with they would still have to deal with this issue, and they would have to discover what works for him by trial and error just like you are.
You are doing a wonderful job. You notice whenever there is a change with him and you take action to resolve it. No one could do more and no one could do better.

EDIT: Is he getting enough fat in his diet? I know with one of my dogs, if he doesn't get enough his skin gets really dry. I have had to add a tablespoon of olive oil to his diet to help keep his skin and hair healthy. It's something to think about.

[SammysMom]

Did I read back further that he has a hot air humidifier? I have been thinking about that and does anyone else think cool air would be better? I may be wrong, but the "tropical" atmosphere might sort of foster the yeast growth and is more likely to cause mold and fungus issues isn't it?
Just thinking out loud, so experts please correct any mistakes I make!

[CritterMom]

Did I read back further that he has a hot air humidifier? I have been thinking about that and does anyone else think cool air would be better? I may be wrong, but the "tropical" atmosphere might sort of foster the yeast growth and is more likely to cause mold and fungus issues isn't it?
Just thinking out loud, so experts please correct any mistakes I make!

Mold is from too much humidity period, not the temp it is produced at. The cool air humidifiers are so dangerous - little Legionairre's Disease spewers. The hot humidifiers boil the water to make steam, thus killing EVERYTHING in it. If you let the ambient humidity rise too high, mold would def be an issue. But when you are fighting dry heat up north in the winter, a vaporizer is a godsend...

[SammysMom]

Thanks for the clarification CrM!:thankyou

[RamaMama]

:grouphug :Love_Icon Hi Jo, :Love_Icon :grouphug

Just letting you know that you

and little :Love_Icon :Love_Icon :Love_Icon Flash :Love_Icon :Love_Icon :Love_Icon
are in my thoughts and Prayers.

Lots of people caring and sharing their Hearts & Knowledge.

:Love_Icon That is the Way. :Love_Icon

:grouphug to everyone, especially Flash Beautiful Baby

[lila01]

OMG haven't been on all day and I see this as soon as I get on! Poor baby flash!!! I hope that whatever you do works FAST!!! LOVE you FLASH!!!:Love_Icon :)

[rygel1hardt]

This is what I use. It is for animals so it is safe. I have even used it on a squirrel with mange and it completely healed him. His fur grew back and he was released.http://www.wellbeings.com/html/halo-dermadream.html

[CritterMom]

OK, since this is a brainstorming session, I have a question. Beeswax. I am concerned about using something so thick and impervious that it clogs his little pores. I know nothing about using beeswax so this is a question borne of ignorance and I would like input. I have direct experience with the emu oil and trust that completely.

I still say I would like to see some kind of water based lotion that has no fragrance or trash like that. Do they make anything for human infants that doesn't have that smell? Hypoallergenic unscented baby lotion of some kind??

[jo_schmoe]

Ok, this is what I did.
I mixed up some olive oil and aloe and water. I warmed it up and rubbed it all over him with a cotton ball. Considering he was so dry...I ran the shower on hot for a long time until the bathroom got real steamy. I held him in there with me for about 20 mins just rubbing the mix into his skin. I then warmed up a rice buddy and put him back in his bed to keep warm. His skin already looks better. He also drank another 6 ccs of FV and 3 ccs of yogurt water.
How long do you think I should keep him on the vetri DMG?

[jo_schmoe]

OK, since this is a brainstorming session, I have a question. Beeswax. I am concerned about using something so thick and impervious that it clogs his little pores. I know nothing about using beeswax so this is a question borne of ignorance and I would like input. I have direct experience with the emu oil and trust that completely.

I still say I would like to see some kind of water based lotion that has no fragrance or trash like that. Do they make anything for human infants that doesn't have that smell? Hypoallergenic unscented baby lotion of some kind??
I will have the Emu oil tomorrow so thats what I am going to go with for now.
Still havent heard back from Pilny....

[JakesLittlePrincess]

Just checking in on Flash. You are the best squirrel mom for helping him through this!!!:grouphug :grouphug :grouphug

[jo_schmoe]

Everything I am coming up with keeps taking me back to apple cider vinegar.
Anyone know how to make a apple cider vinegar wash safe for a squirrel?

[Alcippe]

Just a quick note on the condition of his poops...I had a loose-ish, greenish tinge poop from my youngest one that is on the Vetri-DMG today. I'm wondering if she is getting too much? It says one drop for every 100 grams of body weight, but I have no way to weigh her so I just give her a drop. Either way, this could be the reason his poops look different. :dono

[stosh2010]

I wish I was closer...so I could come over an sit with FLASH...playing and rubbing him down...
FLASH >>> You Rock !!

[CritterMom]

Everything I am coming up with keeps taking me back to apple cider vinegar.
Anyone know how to make a apple cider vinegar wash safe for a squirrel?

Well, I would make sure it is natural ACV - the kind with the "mother." And then I would dilute it way down and let him smell it.

When I was looking for info on ringworm for R&R, I saw all kinds of references to ACV because it does work for this, but everyone posting on the boards said it made their dogs violently ill, vomiting uncontrollably - just the SMELL. So you need to expose him to the smell for a while in a way that it can be taken away if need be so you can observe his reaction. I would hate to see you douse the poor little bugger and then have to try to wash it off of him if it made him sick.

It may just be a dog thing, but I was struck by the number of people who reported it.

[jo_schmoe]

Well, I would make sure it is natural ACV - the kind with the "mother." And then I would dilute it way down and let him smell it.

When I was looking for info on ringworm for R&R, I saw all kinds of references to ACV because it does work for this, but everyone posting on the boards said it made their dogs violently ill, vomiting uncontrollably - just the SMELL. So you need to expose him to the smell for a while in a way that it can be taken away if need be so you can observe his reaction. I would hate to see you douse the poor little bugger and then have to try to wash it off of him if it made him sick.

It may just be a dog thing, but I was struck by the number of people who reported it.
I do not have the mother cider vinegar. Only the pasturized grocery store crap. I use it to make gnat traps.

[CritterMom]

I do not have the mother cider vinegar. Only the pasturized grocery store crap. I use it to make gnat traps.

I think the smell is the same. It is really strong stuff - I don't think I would do more than 25% acv / 75% water, and like I said, let him smell it and be around the smell for a while.

Are you planning on just using it in his ears?

Do you have any reason to think that his skin has a yeast infection? Because it doesn't look it in the pics - it just looks dry and flaky.

[RamaMama]

Jo, I am sure you thought of this as many other have....if you warm the rice buddy in a microwave oven, put a glass of water in with it. Makes it more moist................ to a point.

Just a thought to share.

Cause I care.

[jo_schmoe]

Jo, I am sure you thought of this as many other have....if you warm the rice buddy in a microwave oven, put a glass of water in with it. Makes it more moist................ to a point.

Just a thought to share.

Cause I care.
I wrap it in a damp paper towel for him while I warm it. He loves it and has been resting on it most of the day.
I turned on the furnace...boiled 3 big pots of water and brought his cage out to the living room so he could get some of the moisture and heat radiating out of the kitchen.
Thank you so much for caring...ALL of you! I just want him to feel better.
Im doing everything I can think of.

[jo_schmoe]

I think the smell is the same. It is really strong stuff - I don't think I would do more than 25% acv / 75% water, and like I said, let him smell it and be around the smell for a while.

Are you planning on just using it in his ears?

Do you have any reason to think that his skin has a yeast infection? Because it doesn't look it in the pics - it just looks dry and flaky.
I was reading that you can make a wash out of it...and wipe the animal down. Its supposed to kill yeast. The vet took a sample of the goo in his ears and said it was yeast. He also has the yellow yeasty looking patches on his feet and now his penis. It clears up one day and is back the next.

[Syntdea]

OK, since this is a brainstorming session, I have a question. Beeswax. I am concerned about using something so thick and impervious that it clogs his little pores. I know nothing about using beeswax so this is a question borne of ignorance and I would like input. I have direct experience with the emu oil and trust that completely.

With the oils that you add to the beeswax it allows it to melt at body temperature, and while it sits on the top of your skin for a bit it actually gets absorbed. If you have ever used Burt's Bees stuff you've had beeswax on your skin. I use it (stuff I've made myself) on my whole body. Since I began I almost never have dryness issues where as before my hands and face were constantly having skin flaking off.
My sister in law has severe exzema (sp?) and she uses the stuff I made her all the time. Her's actually has emu oil in it. That stuff (emu oil) has some powerful healing properties. Combining the two is just twice the goodness, although in Flash's case I would put the emu oil on directly and then finish up with the beeswax and oil mix after the emu oil has been on for a minute or so.

[SammysMom]

Plain yogurt
Yogurt topically?
"The good bacteria in plain yogurt helps fight yeast and yogurt can be used both internally and externally. BUT, be sure you buy plain, unsweetened yogurt. Since sugar feeds yeast, this is a crucial point."

[jo_schmoe]

Dr Pilny just got back to me. I sent him some pics of Flash to look at.
He advised against Otomax....said it has a pretty potent steroid in it and he personally never recommends it.
Waiting what he says after he sees the pics.

[Kelly Brady]

Hi Jo,

I am the one that mentioned to Grinn about the apple cider vinegar. I wanted to elaborate on what I was told by a great Dr.

My handicapped daughter had ears that itched so badly and when we went in to this specialist at All Childrens hospital he told me that it was a over growth of yeast in the ear and then told me we would be taking care of it with the ACV. I was shocked.

He then told me "here is a little secret of mine it is the best cure for many to most all types of yeast problems and that included many fungal issues as well. he then said " I know go figure huh"? he said it worked for fungal skin issues like in Florida we get a tan and white spots will show up on the skin sort of faded looking spots, he said that is a skin fungus and it treats that as well. He also said it is a natural disinfectant also for bacteria.

Reading about it on line is amazing at how much it treats. As far as the smell I may set up a small fan to blow the smell away while doing a rinse with the vinegar. I put full strength in Kaceys ears twice a day for seven days and puff gone. No prescriptions needed. also only needed to be placed in ear and then drained immediatly. contact for lengthy periods was not necessay.

I cannot help with the after dry skin effects advice but my daughters pediatrician treats very dry skin with only something called aquafor. It is a vasoline type of lotion and she recommends it for babys through adults and it has no harmful ingredients what so ever. My youngest had terrible dry patches and she said to use it that it is the only thing that locks in moisture so well.
The poops and vetri DMG I no nothing about. My thoughts are with you and Flash. I wanted to get the ACV explanation in to you. Good luck, Flash deserves a break. you too:grouphug

[CritterMom]

:thumbsup :thumbsup :thumbsup

[Alcippe]

I do not have the mother cider vinegar. Only the pasturized grocery store crap. I use it to make gnat traps.

Oh please elaborate on how to make these gnat traps! I hate to go OT, but those buggers are brutal around here!

[jo_schmoe]

Oh please elaborate on how to make these gnat traps! I hate to go OT, but those buggers are brutal around here!
Take a jar with a metal lid and poke holes in it..big enough so the gnats can get in ( about ice pick size) and fill far 3/4 of the way with apple cider vinegar and a drop of dawn dish soap. They are attracted to it and once they go inside the jar they fall in the mixture and die. Works like a charm. I have 4 jars alone in the squirrel room. It doesnt seem to bother them at all...and best thing.....NO GNATS!

[jo_schmoe]

Hi Jo,

I am the one that mentioned to Grinn about the apple cider vinegar. I wanted to elaborate on what I was told by a great Dr.

My handicapped daughter had ears that itched so badly and when we went in to this specialist at All Childrens hospital he told me that it was a over growth of yeast in the ear and then told me we would be taking care of it with the ACV. I was shocked.

He then told me "here is a little secret of mine it is the best cure for many to most all types of yeast problems and that included many fungal issues as well. he then said " I know go figure huh"? he said it worked for fungal skin issues like in Florida we get a tan and white spots will show up on the skin sort of faded looking spots, he said that is a skin fungus and it treats that as well. He also said it is a natural disinfectant also for bacteria.

Reading about it on line is amazing at how much it treats. As far as the smell I may set up a small fan to blow the smell away while doing a rinse with the vinegar. I put full strength in Kaceys ears twice a day for seven days and puff gone. No prescriptions needed. also only needed to be placed in ear and then drained immediatly. contact for lengthy periods was not necessay.

I cannot help with the after dry skin effects advice but my daughters pediatrician treats very dry skin with only something called aquafor. It is a vasoline type of lotion and she recommends it for babys through adults and it has no harmful ingredients what so ever. My youngest had terrible dry patches and she said to use it that it is the only thing that locks in moisture so well.
The poops and vetri DMG I no nothing about. My thoughts are with you and Flash. I wanted to get the ACV explanation in to you. Good luck, Flash deserves a break. you too:grouphug
Thank you Kelly so much!! I too have been reading a lot about the benefits of ACV.

[jo_schmoe]

Flash is up and eating!! Took a big huge drink from the water dish and is munching away at his food!! I just got some pics. I had to use the flash because its so dark. I didn't want to make him run back to his bed by turning on the light.
I left the last one bigger so you can see the dark dry patches he now has on his elbows.

[Alcippe]

Take a jar with a metal lid and poke holes in it..big enough so the gnats can get in ( about ice pick size) and fill far 3/4 of the way with apple cider vinegar and a drop of dawn dish soap. They are attracted to it and once they go inside the jar they fall in the mixture and die. Works like a charm. I have 4 jars alone in the squirrel room. It doesnt seem to bother them at all...and best thing.....NO GNATS!

Thanks! I am definately going to give this a try!

[Nancy in New York]

:Love_Icon FLASH....I JUST LOVE YOU...:Love_Icon

[stosh2010]

So good to see the FLASH up and eating---

[Twi_prime]

Hope he keeps feeling better, Jo. Any further word from Dr. Pilny?

[stosh2010]

It's MORNIN' Time...Did FLASH stay up ALL NIGHT ??
How is the ITCHING this morning ???

[jo_schmoe]

It's MORNIN' Time...Did FLASH stay up ALL NIGHT ??
How is the ITCHING this morning ???
He did!! He was more active last night than I have ever seen him before.
I just wanted to say THANKS to everyone that posted here yesterday with their help. I have posted an update in his thread.

[jo_schmoe]

I just got home from work and checked on Flash. His head is swollen. Right side...just below his ear. Its only on that side....ears look infected again.
PLEASE is anyone knows what I can do tell me.

[Nancy in New York]

I just got home from work and checked on Flash. His head is swollen. Right side...just below his ear. Its only on that side....ears look infected again.
PLEASE is anyone knows what I can do tell me.

Jo, post a picture if you can. This is always the best way to help with any problem, to be able to see it.
Do you notice an odor near his ear?
Do you want me to contact anyone?

[pappy1264]

Is it soft or hard the swelling? Can you check his teeth? Can be fluid from ears. God, this poor baby!!

[island rehabber]

Is he still on any antibiotics? Something is going on in there....:(

[grinn75]

Warm compress on that side of head to help disperse the fluid if it's infection. And probably start on abx? I'll wait for pics to say more.

[CritterMom]

This poor sweet baby.

Jo, do you have ANY solution for his ears? I know the vet was getting some for you at one point...

This baby has been on both sulfatrim and metro so far. Do we now try baytril/cipro?

[jo_schmoe]

Here is a pic I just now got of him.
Look at how swollen he is under his ear and under his eye. Notice the yuck in his ear.
No he is not on ABs anymore. I have them though. Just tell me what to do and it will be done. I have sulfatrim, metro and cipro ( I think....I'll have to go back and see what the other pill is.)
Its doesn't feel hard....it feels soft....like its full of fluid.

[jo_schmoe]

And I was wrong. Both sides are swollen. One is just worse than the other. Heres a pic of what the goo looks like under the scab. Its white and smelly. Very liquidy in his ear.

[CritterMom]

In my opinion, for what it's worth, he has already been on the other two and they have not taken care of this. So I would do the Cipro. Do you have the dosing info on it?

I would also do some warm compresses on the area.

See what IR thinks - hopefully she will come back on here.

[Nancy in New York]

When he is on the abs, does the ear clear up? Is there an odor to it?
That does look swollen...wished I had an answer....:shakehead

*edit, just saw your post that there is an odor.
Poor little darling....:Love_Icon

[jo_schmoe]

When he is on the abs, does the ear clear up? Is there an odor to it?
That does look swollen...wished I had an answer....:shakehead

*edit, just saw your post that there is an odor.
Poor little darling....:Love_Icon
Yes...it cleared up for about a week after the Abs....but just came right back.

[Jackie in Tampa]

OMGoodness, he already has discoloration...get that boy back on ABs..
clean that ear....flush outside exterior with betadine as soon as possible...
:shakehead Please refrain from the oils...they will not help....
he can/may go septic...:shakehead
that ear is bad...
I would double up his first dose...keep him hydrated...
I would take off all dead skin...apply a medical cream/ointment...none of the things pic in your other thread:nono

I was PMed to try to help...
let me know if I can...
good luck Flash and Jo!

[jo_schmoe]

Thank you Jackie.
Now something else I should mention...is I applied some Silvadine for the first time yesterday to his inner things. He was raw in this area. Could this have affected him?? If not...can THAT be applied to his ears??

[island rehabber]

Cipro or Baytril -- the big dogs -- needed now, as JIT said. I wasn't sure if he was already on one of them. DEFINITELY needs to be.

[jo_schmoe]

Thank you Jackie.
Now something else I should mention...is I applied some Silvadine for the first time yesterday to his inner things. He was raw in this area. Could this have affected him?? If not...can THAT be applied to his ears??
Can anyone answer this?

[SammysMom]

No info to add, but lots of prayers to be said!:grouphug :grouphug :grouphug

[Jackie in Tampa]

Thank you Jackie.
Now something else I should mention...is I applied some Silvadine for the first time yesterday to his inner things. He was raw in this area. Could this have affected him?? If not...can THAT be applied to his ears??
I cannot answer the SSD question myself with a good feeling....
HOWEVER...
I, per my vet, am putting SSD in a raw open wound...
not sure about ears...:dono
I doubt it would hurt if on the exterior of the ear..have no clue about inside the canal.
I have vet appointment at noon saturday...{tomorrow}
if you have questions, I will present them and Flash's pics...
yep, time for the BIG DOG!

[island rehabber]

I believe Silvadene is a miracle cream -- used on 3rd degree burn victims, in fact. Try it. :thumbsup
Still needs ABX though...

[Nancy in New York]

I have vet appointment at noon saturday...{tomorrow}
if you have questions, I will present them and Flash's pics...
yep, time for the BIG DOG!

Fantastic offer Jackie...:Love_Icon
Jo, it may be beneficial to write up a short history on Flash which can be presented along with the pictures.
Also Dr. P's thoughts and what course of action you have been taking.:Love_Icon

I know you already know this....just a little reminder.:)

[pappy1264]

Yes, I agree with IR and Jackie...Cipro since you hve it already.

Have you had him on benedryl at all (I know he needs abs now, but was talking to someone about him and they asked.)

I also found this, looking into recurrent ear infections:


Gantrisin

In its liquid forms, Gantrisin is a brand name for acetyl sulfisoxazole and is often used as a preventative drug for children with recurrent infections, because it's taken only once a day. It's approved for acute otitis media when used in combination with penicillin or erythromycin.

[pappy1264]

Jackie, do you think while at vets, they would allow you to pull the threads up on Flash for them to look over? Might give them more insite into this and coming up with ideas.

[stosh2010]

Oh Poor Little Flash...just when we hoped he was over the"hump"
Please, Lord, watch over and protect our hairless friend, he deserves to have many, many Years of Lovins from his Mom.

[Jackie in Tampa]

Jackie, do you think while at vets, they would allow you to pull the threads up on Flash for them to look over? Might give them more insite into this and coming up with ideas.the vet and I look at TSB often...:thumbsup
have spoke with Jo...starting NOW..she will build his immune system..
he def has immune system deficiency...
whether it's from birth or contracted from illness or meds...it needs to be addressed...
good health comes from good diet...
immune system is key, ABs destroy it...

no stress for Flash..healthy diet is best option...
I have given Jo my best advise...
hope it helps.

[jo_schmoe]

I believe Silvadene is a miracle cream -- used on 3rd degree burn victims, in fact. Try it. :thumbsup
Still needs ABX though...

Can it go inside his ears?? Getting ready to dose him with the Cipro...thought as long as Im at it I can put on the Silvadine and let him rest.

[RamaMama]

So so sorry and sad to hear this turn.

I know this is extremely distressing for everyone who Loves
little Flash, especially his wonderful Mom.

Flash is in my prayers, for certain.

Hope the vet has some answers and can help.


Love & Blessings

:Love_Icon :grouphug :Love_Icon :grouphug :Love_Icon

[4skwerlz]

Adding my prayers to all the rest.:grouphug Poor little Flash. :Love_Icon

[jo_schmoe]

BEST NEWS EVER!!! Found a vet!!! He will see him RIGHT NOW. Not very far...just a few miles. PLEASE pray for him.

[astra]

BEST NEWS EVER!!! Found a vet!!! He will see him RIGHT NOW. Not very far...just a few miles. PLEASE pray for him.
:grouphug :grouphug :grouphug

[gs1]

:Love_Icon :Love_Icon :Love_Icon will do....:Love_Icon :Love_Icon :Love_Icon

[CritterMom]

Empty your PM folder before you go!

[jo_schmoe]

Empty your PM folder before you go!
K. Its empty

[pappy1264]

Sending tons of prayers....let us know as soon as you can. Please Lord, guide this doctor to help poor little Flash.

[Jackie in Tampa]

one more quickie...I forgot when we were talking...
when I researched Immune system builders for sweet Richard...
I found a few studies saying zinc and vitamin E were excellent boosters...
science proven...studied and testedd...
so I started looking at everything, hoping to find high contents of them both...
guess what...I looked at my HHBs...200% of the RDA of E and 150% zinc...
I felt better as Richard was already hooked on them...:thumbsup

[jo_schmoe]

Ok..just got back home.
I REALLY like this vet. He wants Flash on liquid baytril for 5 days...then he wants to see him after those 5 days to see if a longer time is needed. He also prescribed Gentizol. This goes directly into his ears and also can be applied to his dry spots as he suspects they are yeast. He got a good look into his ears...left one is clear and looks good ( minus the yeast) but the right one was so swollen he couldnt see inside of it. The lymph node on that side is swollen.
He does not think Flash has a high estrogen level. He does believe most of what is causing his symptoms is a repressed immune system. He also believes he never had mange.
It was explained to us by him...that what he thinks happened to Flash was that he had a fever at the time of a normal shed cycle...causing all his hair to fall out. Said its quite common if the natural shed cycle falls onto a squirrel while they have a fever. In Red squirrels their first shed happens when they are around 9 weeks old....thats just a week or two before he was found. They hair may or may not grow back.
He also got a good look at his teeth and they do NOT line up. They will have to be trimmed every two weeks for the rest of his life.
He also took a sample of his poo ( not hard...he left quite a trail on the exam table) and will test for parasites. I will know the results of that in the morning.

[RamaMama]

Praying praying with Thanks, that this vet knows what to do to help Flash be on the mend.
Beautiful Little Flash ! ! !

Hoping for the Best for Flash. Will be waiting to hear the results of the tests.

Blessings to you too jo schmoe.

:Love_Icon :Love_Icon :Love_Icon :Love_Icon :Love_Icon :Love_Icon

[jo_schmoe]

Praying praying this vet knows what to do to help Flash be on the mend.
Beautiful Little Flash ! ! !

:Love_Icon :Love_Icon :Love_Icon :Love_Icon :Love_Icon :Love_Icon
I think he knows his stuff. He knew quite a bit about squirrels....I was shocked. And I love the fact that he wants to see him again in 5 days.

[jo_schmoe]

one more quickie...I forgot when we were talking...
when I researched Immune system builders for sweet Richard...
I found a few studies saying zinc and vitamin E were excellent boosters...
science proven...studied and testedd...
so I started looking at everything, hoping to find high contents of them both...
guess what...I looked at my HHBs...200% of the RDA of E and 150% zinc...
I felt better as Richard was already hooked on them...:thumbsup
Well Jackie...you never cease to amaze me. You were right...its all coming from a suppressed immune system. Listening to the vet just now....was almost identical to what we spoke about on the phone. :thumbsup You COMPLETELY rock!!!!:bowdown

[pappy1264]

Yeah!!! Maybe (finally) a way to get him completely better to stay will be found!! I am so happy you found this vet!!!!

[CritterMom]

Wow! That was quick! And awesome, too! Poor little Flash, maybe this is the start of something good!

[jo_schmoe]

Yeah!!! Maybe (finally) a way to get him completely better to stay will be found!! I am so happy you found this vet!!!!
I can't take the credit for it. It was my Hubby. 5 of the vets he called said they would euthanize him before they ever even seen him. ( makes my blood boil)
Russ just explained to this guy that we love him VERY much....and if we lost him we would be devastated and like a good Squappa insisted on going inside alone with his burly self and told the vet that if he even THOUGHT about putting him down....there would be trouble. When the vet saw how calm and gentle Flash was he was floored. I think he understands why we love him so much now.

[jo_schmoe]

Wow! That was quick! And awesome, too! Poor little Flash, maybe this is the start of something good!
This guy is 3 miles from my house. A country vet we knew nothing about. We may just transfer our show dogs over to him...since MY vet is a dip. I'd rather support a vet that believe what we do....all life is worth saving...ALL LIFE!!!

[Nancy in New York]

:jump :jump :jump Just got home and had to see how our baby is doing....:jump :jump :jump

[CritterMom]

This guy is 3 miles from my house. A country vet we knew nothing about. We may just transfer our show dogs over to him...since MY vet is a dip. I'd rather support a vet that believe what we do....all life is worth saving...ALL LIFE!!!

You absolutely should. Good deeds deserve reward, being a dip deserves rejection. Nothing votes like $$$.

[4skwerlz]

I think he knows his stuff. He knew quite a bit about squirrels....I was shocked. And I love the fact that he wants to see him again in 5 days.

I love that too. It means he cares IMO.

[jo_schmoe]

So I curious what you guys think about what he said about Flash and why he lost his hair. Have any of you ever heard of such a thing?

[astra]

:crazy :grouphug :crazy :grouphug :crazy

[gs1]

:D am so glad!!!he sounds so good and love the squappa defending his baby.... :D

[jo_schmoe]

Just went and checked him....the swelling is already going down. Is that possible??? Baytril/Cipro really works that fast?? Maybe its the Gentizol. he said it had a steroid in it that would help with the swelling but I had no idea it would work that fast. He already looks better. Pics when he wakes up to eat...you guys are going to be amazed!! :multi :wott :wott :multi

[jo_schmoe]

:D am so glad!!!he sounds so good and love the squappa defending his baby.... :D
He's a pretty special guy. He loves these guys just as much as I do. Remember he is the one that did all the night feedings when the Rockers were babies so I could sleep for a bit. He's also the one that set up a credit card for everything squirrel related. That way they will never ever go without anything they need.

[pappy1264]

Probably the steroids, they can work incredibly fast (which is a good thing!) I love this vet CARES.....because they do the most to find ways to fix things! (Hope that came out right...lol)

Now, I know he did not have chemo, but chemo severally depresses the immune system. My dog, Jake, had bone cancer and had his leg amputated. Had chemo day after surgery, then again three weeks later. Unfortunately, it effected his kidneys, so no more chemo after that. BUT where he was shaved took forever to even start growing in (he only got 3 mos 2 days after amp and he was just at the fuzz stage at that point.) I was told the shaving then chemo probably happened at a time of shed. Because the immune system was repressed, it threw the shed timing all out of whack. They said it might not ever grow back or may grow back very thin. So, perhaps really boosting that immune system (trying to jumpstart it) MAY cause the shed pattern to go back on track, too. I never even thought of this, unfortunately.....(did I say how happy I am you found this vet?? Heck, I would LOVE to write him a personal letter to thank him!)

Give that sweet little guy a kiss, kiss, kiss, scritch, scritch, scritch for me!

[island rehabber]

I've never heard anything like what the vet diagnosed but from you're telling us this man seems very knowledgeable and CARING. I do think the steroids are what brought the swelling down (that's why we used to say "Dex, a steroid, for head trauma if you can give it right away" in an effort to prevent neuro symptoms). Jackie, :bowdown. And :bowdown.

[jo_schmoe]

Probably the steroids, they can work incredibly fast (which is a good thing!) I love this vet CARES.....because they do the most to find ways to fix things! (Hope that came out right...lol)

Now, I know he did not have chemo, but chemo severally depresses the immune system. My dog, Jake, had bone cancer and had his leg amputated. Had chemo day after surgery, then again three weeks later. Unfortunately, it effected his kidneys, so no more chemo after that. BUT where he was shaved took forever to even start growing in (he only got 3 mos 2 days after amp and he was just at the fuzz stage at that point.) I was told the shaving then chemo probably happened at a time of shed. Because the immune system was repressed, it threw the shed timing all out of whack. They said it might not ever grow back or may grow back very thin. So, perhaps really boosting that immune system (trying to jumpstart it) MAY cause the shed pattern to go back on track, too. I never even thought of this, unfortunately.....(did I say how happy I am you found this vet?? Heck, I would LOVE to write him a personal letter to thank him!)

Give that sweet little guy a kiss, kiss, kiss, scritch, scritch, scritch for me!
He asked me how I knew so much about squirrels...and I told him the truth...TSB! I also told him that Flash has a fan club...and to write down everything he was doing so I could relay it to you guys. If your serious about writing him a letter....I will give you his address. His name is Dr. Motter in Cooperstown ND.

[jo_schmoe]

I forgot this part. NEVER EVER WHATEVER YOU DO....apply peroxide to ANY animals ears. I can cause drum damage and deafness. He suggested using a mix of 1 part vinegar to 10 parts water...and wipe them out daily with this.

[jo_schmoe]

Ok, here is a pic of Flash as of just now. He's VERY squirmy.....which I am chalking up as good. Activity is always good. He wasn't much for picture taking ......probably worried Im going to shove some more nasty stuff in his mouth...... this was the best I could do....but you can see in this pic that the swelling is down quite a bit...also his color looks better.

[Nancy in New York]

Huge difference, especially around the eyes. Hoping this little fella feels better real soon....:Love_Icon :Love_Icon

http://i673.photobucket.com/albums/vv95/nancym518/Fall%20babies%202011/9-2320flash20yuck20ear.jpg http://i673.photobucket.com/albums/vv95/nancym518/Fall%20babies%202011/9-2320Flash20better.jpg

[lilidukes]

Jo went back and read Flashes thread.....found in moldy oats, oatmeal baths, fed wheat, flour sack bedding????? ALERGIES kept coming to mind. Grain alergies. This link is about dogs and cats. Just a thought:thinking :dono


http://www.petcurean.com/index.php?page_id=109

Food Allergies and Intolerances

In order for an animal to have an allergy they must have had previous exposure to the offending agent.

Food allergies account for about 10% of all the allergies seen in dogs and cats. It is the third most common cause after flea bite allergies and atopy (inhalant allergies). With the advent of lamb and rice diets, many people feel that they are preventing or treating food allergies. The entire process of a pet being sensitized to a particular agent in food, and the complicated antibody response that occurs in the intestinal tract in pets with food allergies, are not very well understood. Despite the lack of understanding of the actual disease process, there are many things that we do know including the symptoms, how to diagnose food allergies, and also how to treat them.

Food allergies affect both dogs, and less so, cats. They can show up as early as five months and as late as 12 years of age, though the vast majority of cases occur between 2 and 6 years. Many animals with food allergies also have concurrent inhalant or contact allergies.

The symptoms of food allergies are similar to those of most allergies seen in dogs and cats. The primary symptom is itchy skin. Symptoms may also include chronic or recurrent ear infections, hair loss, excessive scratching, hot spots, and skin infections that respond to antibiotics but reoccur after antibiotics are discontinued. There is evidence that dogs with food allergies may sometimes have an increased incidence of bowel movements. One study showed that non-allergic dogs have around 1.5 bowel movements per day where some dogs with food allergies may have 3 or more per day.

In order to determine a food allergy, a food trial consists of feeding an animal a novel food source of one protein and one carbohydrate for 12 weeks. A novel food source would be a protein and carbohydrate that the animal had never eaten before. An example would be Go! Natural Salmon & Oatmeal, venison and rice, or Go! Natural Duck & Oatmeal if more than one novel carbohydrate is acceptable. Go! Natural Salmon and Oatmeal produced by Petcurean Pet Nutrition are used by many veterinarians for food allergies or intolerances. Regardless of the diet used, it must be the only thing the animal eats for 12 weeks. This means no treats; absolutely nothing but the special food and water.

[jo_schmoe]

Whoa....VERY interesting. I think this needs some looking into. The flour sack is just material...like your grandmas dish towels. No wheat in them. All cotton. Also...if he was tossed out by his mama.....the farm he was found at was a wheat farm and it may be what he ate the most of because it was so available.
For now....we will not offer him any more wheat and see what happens. He hasn't had an oatmeal bath in a long while....I was worried it was drying him out. The only itchy places he has now are his ears. His skin has healed up quite well.
Is there any wheat in Rat block?? How about HHBs??

[astra]

of course, Leigh will have to confirm this, but according to the homemade HHB recipe there is no wheat whatsoever in HHBs...

as far as the Kaytee or other blocks go, you can check their ingredients. BUT a lot of them contain soy in one form or another, and soy can cause allergies just like (or even worse) wheat.
I remember reading that they cause allergies in humans, too. Except, in humans these allergies might not manifest themselves as nasal itching, sneezing, runny nose etc - usual allergic symptoms. They can be almost completely asymptomatic or mimic other illnesses, but almost in all cases they negatively affect immune system, so that even though the person might not have a certain illness that can be directly traced back to soy and wheat, they might end up with some illness as a result of their whacked immune system, seemingly completely unrelated to soy and wheat.

These negative effects of soy and wheat are largely due to them being GMO (although, soy has some other stuff).

So, if the blocks Flash consumes have soy in some form, that might have caused either an allergic reaction, or further undermined his immune system...

[jo_schmoe]

UNBELIEVABLE!!!!! Dr Motter just called to check in on Flash. Can you believe this guy?? I feel like my prayers have been answered. I told him the swelling had went way down and he said that was what he was hoping for.
He also wanted to relay some info on a common captive squirrel ailment called ( no other than) MBD! He wanted to make sure that Flash was getting the proper amount of not only Calcium....but he stressed that most MBD is caused from lack of Vit D. ( duh...sunshine). Wild squirrels dont get much calcium...but because they are outside ( Vit D) they get high doses of Vit D which cause the body to process the calcium correctly and you almost never see a wild with MBD.
Leigh.....I think this might be where you step in...LOL.
Can you tell us what the deal is with captive squirrels and MBD? How do you feel about what he said about the Vit D?

[4skwerlz]

So I curious what you guys think about what he said about Flash and why he lost his hair. Have any of you ever heard of such a thing?

Yes, it can happen in humans with certain acute infections, which basically cause the immune system to overreact and attack normal tissues. I believe Dengue fever is one instance where it's fairly common for the hair follicles to be affected. Seems a little unlikely in a squirrel, but I guess we learn something new every day.

This vet sounds fantastic; he cares. Perhaps even more importantly, his treatment has worked. Flash looks a lot better already. Hopefully if you can support Flash and prevent/treat these secondary infections, he'll outgrow the underlying problem, whatever it is.

[astra]

of course I am no squirrel medicine expert, but when I think of the many NRs here and overwintered guys, they are not necessarily exposed to sunlight daily on a regular basis, yet, they do not have MBD if they are fed the correct diet.

Vit D is, of course, absolutely important for bone strength and health even humans, too. And yes, it does aide calcium absorption. But it's not the only thing that is important for Cal absorption, and hence, it's deficiency, if any at all, alone cannot cause poor Cal absorption and MBD as a result of it

vit D can be obtained through correct diet as well, and as long as Flash's menu is as close to the recommended in the Nutritional forum as possible, he should not have lack of vit D... or deficiency serious enough to cause Cal absorption problems.
Also, MBD has a very distinct set of symptoms, and I don't think Flash exhibits any of them (unless I missed it somehow)

to me, it does look more like the results of a weak immune system...:thinking :dono

[jo_schmoe]

of course I am no squirrel medicine expert, but when I think of the many NRs here and overwintered guys, they are not necessarily exposed to sunlight daily on a regular basis, yet, they do not have MBD if they are fed the correct diet.

Vit D is, of course, absolutely important for bone strength and health even humans, too. And yes, it does aide calcium absorption. But it's not the only thing that is important for Cal absorption, and hence, it's deficiency, if any at all, alone cannot cause poor Cal absorption and MBD as a result of it

vit D can be obtained through correct diet as well, and as long as Flash's menu is as close to the recommended in the Nutritional forum as possible, he should not have lack of vit D... or deficiency serious enough to cause Cal absorption problems.
Also, MBD has a very distinct set of symptoms, and I don't think Flash exhibits any of them (unless I missed it somehow)

to me, it does look more like the results of a weak immune system...:thinking :dono
He doesn't think Flash has MBD. He just wanted to let me know about it because Flash will not be able to be released.

[astra]

He doesn't think Flash has MBD. He just wanted to let me know about it because Flash will not be able to be released.
ah, ok, I see now.
But still, as long as Flash eats well and gets some daylight, he should not really get MBD. I believe, HHBs have enough vit D in them + food sources (e.g, mushrooms). Flash should be all set, since he eats well.

[SammysMom]

Well I can't address the squirrel issues but I can add my two cents about the hair-loss. I have MS (autoimmune disorder) and I do suffer from hair-loss when I am having an episode of active illness. Autoimmune disorders can just decide that that some tissue or matter in you body is a foreign invasion and attack it. I don't see any reason why he couldn't be suffering from some strange issues due to an autoimmune disorder of some sort.
Other than that, prayers to the patient!:grouphug

[Gina]

Praying for Flash....just love that face, cannot get enough of him:Love_Icon

[stosh2010]

He's CLOSE...Compassionate ...and Knowledgable...You hit the TRI-fecta with Dr. Motter.
What is the name of his Vet Clinic? Does he have a web site or e-mail we can contact him by? I would really like to let him know how thankful all of TSB and especially TEAM FLASH is that he is helping

[Chickenlegs]

I saw this post and bout had a heart attack. Just read all the updates and am SO glad Flash is doing better. He is SUCH a special little guy. And I have a second reason to keep up on the Flashster. I was called about a little HAIRLESS squirrel with teeth issues. Flash is a cutting edge educator as well as being the sweetest little munchkin EVER. Love you Flash (and Mom).

[pappy1264]

Well, my rottie, Sable, has a major allergy to wheat and corn. And if she eats any, she immediately gets ear infections! When she does, I have to use Animax cream (Panalog) in her ear and it works great. (Again, this is a steroid, like what your vet gave to you.) Ask him if adding benedryl in might be helpful for Flash. I have used it with gliders with no issues (I have some that get 'fall allergies' and get runny noses and sneeze like crazy!)

How is the cutest little bald guy doing today???

[stosh2010]

GOOD MORNING...FLASH--- ( the "Mr.Clean" of the squirrel world)

[Pierre]

Vitamin D not only aids in calcium absorption but it is also crucial for bone formation. You can get all the vitamin D needed through diet and do not need to get a UV light or take him into the sun---this might harm him if he got sunburn anyway. Quality rat block [straight or in Boo Balls], HHBs etc. have vitamin D3.

I don't know about the other rat block brands, but you can get numerous rat block formulations from Harlan Teklad that are soy free. 2016, 2018, etc.

What an awesome vet you found! That whole estrogen thing sounded odd to me anyway... :crazy

:grouphug Flash :grouphug

[RamaMama]

:shine :shine :shine :shine :shine

Happy Sunshine to Flash & Mom !
:crazy ........ :rotfl ........ :crazy ........ :rotfl

Looking forward to the morning News of Flash ! !

:poke

Praying for more Happy Words of Improvement.

:Love_Icon :Love_Icon :Love_Icon

[JakesLittlePrincess]

Just checking in on Flash!

[jo_schmoe]

Our little Flash is doing better!
No swelling at all today but the right ear is scabbed over and full of gooh again. The left ear has none. His eyes are much brighter and he has a HUGE appetite. ....bigger than ever before. First thing gone off the plate this morn was his mix of greens!!! ( those are usually last) Pooh is completely back to normal. Nice little chocolate sprinkles. Another thing that is strange today is when I went to check him he was sunning himself. His cage faces an east window and the morning sun was shining in...he was standing directly in it...giving himself a bath!!!
I will get pics of him after I get his ear cleaned up and give him his meds.

[Nancy in New York]

Our little Flash is doing better!
No swelling at all today but the right ear is scabbed over and full of gooh again. The left ear has none. His eyes are much brighter and he has a HUGE appetite. ....bigger than ever before. First thing gone off the plate this morn was his mix of greens!!! ( those are usually last) Pooh is completely back to normal. Nice little chocolate sprinkles. Another thing that is strange today is when I went to check him he was sunning himself. His cage faces an east window and the morning sun was shining in...he was standing directly in it...giving himself a bath!!!
I will get pics of him after I get his ear cleaned up and give him his meds.
:Love_Icon :Love_Icon FLASH :Love_Icon :Love_Icon

[island rehabber]

sweet boy! Sometimes they know what their bodies need far better than we do. :Love_Icon

[jo_schmoe]

I am supposed to call Dr Motter at 9 am to give him a report on Flash. Is there anything you guys want me to ask him before I do??
The only other question I forgot yesterday was I want to know why he came in with more fur than he has now. His tail fur is almost gone and so is the fur on his feet.

[island rehabber]

Well I can't address the squirrel issues but I can add my two cents about the hair-loss. I have MS (autoimmune disorder) and I do suffer from hair-loss when I am having an episode of active illness.

SammysMom, I'm so sorry to hear that :grouphug. But you'd never know: when I met you last January I remember thinking "what gorgeous hair she has!" :tilt

[jo_schmoe]

He's CLOSE...Compassionate ...and Knowledgable...You hit the TRI-fecta with Dr. Motter.
What is the name of his Vet Clinic? Does he have a web site or e-mail we can contact him by? I would really like to let him know how thankful all of TSB and especially TEAM FLASH is that he is helping
Here is his clinic. He knows alllll about Team Flash....thinks its pretty cool he has a fan club that reaches all the way to Costa Rica!!!

http://www.cooperstownnd.com/index.php?page=bus&cat=29

[Nancy in New York]

I am supposed to call Dr Motter at 9 am to give him a report on Flash. Is there anything you guys want me to ask him before I do??


Yes, can you ask him when he is moving his practice to New York?:D

[island rehabber]

Yes, can you ask him when he is moving his practice to New York?:D

:alright.gif:goodpost Our winters are MUCH warmer, too!!

[jo_schmoe]

Just hung up with Dr. Motter. He said the right ear will take a few days to see results...but the fact that the left ear is still clear is a very good sign. As far as the loss of more hair on his tail and feet....he's not clear...but said that he may grow back his fur...and he may also lose it again. He also stressed these things. Even if he looks like he is getting better...I am to continue his treatment for the full 7 days on Gentizol and 5 days on the baytril. It may make his stools soft and to just keep him hydrated. I am to keep him out of the sun for the length of treatment as the steroid may make him more sensitive to sunburns. He also wants me to put a bit of the Gentizol on his dry patches. I am to keep a close eyes on his groin area and apply the silvadine to the areas which are raw. ( hardly at all anymore...Silvadine is the BOMB!) The meds may make his urine more acidic...and to keep a good coating on the areas he may wet himself in.
He was reading about chemical exposure to pregnant mothers....he is almost sure this is what happened with Flash although we may never really know. The most likely thing was that while he was in utero...his mother ingested a chemical....causing his immune system to weaken....and likely he was the only sibling to survive. Most chemical exposure results in cleft pallets in squirrels....and noted that Flashs top lip was smaller than it should be and the fact that he his teeth dont line up. He doubts Flashs mom is still alive. SO he may not have been kicked out by his mom....he may have just simply lost her and tried to fend for himself. He should not have been out of the nest and more than likely contracted the yeast infection when he left it. We have had an enormous amount of moisture....what Dr Motter said was a breeding ground for yeast. He said the number of cattle that are coming in with yeast infections is at an all time high.

[mpetys]

This guy is 3 miles from my house. A country vet we knew nothing about. We may just transfer our show dogs over to him...since MY vet is a dip. I'd rather support a vet that believe what we do....all life is worth saving...ALL LIFE!!!

This is incredible. He is just 3 miles from your house. Sounds like an answer to many prayers. What more could we hope for? Flash is touching so many with his story of survival and your dedication to him is inspiring.

[lila01]

:Love_Icon Flahs!!! I'm glad to know that he is a little better and and sending live ur way!!! Love u flash!!!

[gs1]

He's a pretty special guy. He loves these guys just as much as I do. Remember he is the one that did all the night feedings when the Rockers were babies so I could sleep for a bit. He's also the one that set up a credit card for everything squirrel related. That way they will never ever go without anything they need.



:Love_Icon flash......

:Love_Icon love his squappy too - wow!!! a squirrel credit card brilliant....:D

[jo_schmoe]

Heres a few pics. Sorry about the blurriness...he's pretty active today!

Look at how yucky his ear was before he was cleaned up. Notice the blood. He was digging at it. As soon as I cleaned it out and applied the Gentizol...he stopped.
He seems to have more strength today.
Now when I give him the Baytril...it has got to be the worst tasting stuff on the planet. He foams up and shakes his head and then wipes off the foam on his blanket. I give him a bit of grape juice after to get the yucky taste out of his mouth.

[SammysMom]

I am green with envy over your vet! What an incredible gift to have found him! The fact that he investigates possible causes puts him head and shoulders above the rest in my book. Healing prayers for Flash!
P.S. How far is this guy from Connecticut?

[mpetys]

Don't mean to threadjack but someone in Michigan just posted about a baby red that is losing its fur. I have directed her to this thread but maybe you could check out her thread and pics: http://thesquirrelboard.com/forums/showthread.php?t=30696

Thanks!

[jo_schmoe]

Don't mean to threadjack but someone in Michigan just posted about a baby red that is losing its fur. I have directed her to this thread but maybe you could check out her thread and pics: http://thesquirrelboard.com/forums/showthread.php?t=30696

Thanks!
I looked at the pics of the other one....wow the skin is red. Patchy hair loss too. That could be mange. You can tell she doesn't feel good....a red squirrel is NEVER that calm when being held and flipped over.

[stosh2010]

I didn't find an e-mail for Dr. Motter, but Cooperstown Vet Clinic did have a nice Facebook page.

COPY & Paste:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Cooperstown-Veterinary-Clinic/121471381277245?sk=wall!/photo.php?fbid=2157740258330&set=o.121471381277245%20&type=1&theater

[RamaMama]

Great to hear Flash seems even some what better this morn/day.

Continued Improvement - our hearts desire.

Bless Baby Flash. :Love_Icon

[mpetys]

I looked at the pics of the other one....wow the skin is red. Patchy hair loss too. That could be mange. You can tell she doesn't feel good....a red squirrel is NEVER that calm when being held and flipped over.

Thanks for taking a look. Hopefully the poster will reply.

[gs1]

:Love_Icon baytril is bad tasting ...i've tasted it.... with rabbits vets add a flavouring to it ... banana doesn't last the week but strawberry did if i put it in the fridge ...which had it's own problems... i shook the bottle and syringed the doses for the week and put them all in the fridge then i warmed up one at a time at room temp.:grouphug

[island rehabber]

:Love_Icon baytril is bad tasting ...i've tasted it....

:nono:nono Silvana! :nono:nono Baytril causes seizures in humans!

Critters can take Cipro OR Baytril
Humans can ONLY take Cipro -- no Baytril nononono:nono

[gs1]

well i had to know why they loved it one day and then started hating it....

if it helps i spit it out and rinsed my mouth .....:D

Yeah, other than the brain damage I'm sure you're fine :poke :D

[Milo's Mom]

Jo, when I've had to give Baytril, I pulled up the dosage in the syringe and then I pulled up some maple syrup then some air and then I shook it hard to mix it really well. Then I dipped the tip of the syringe in the maple syrup so it was the first taste...yummy maple syrup. I also did this process when I had to give Cody Tramadol for his knee...worked like a charm every time...I told Cody it was his special yummy treat that only he got...after he got that first taste of maple syrup...the rest was history...actually he grabbed at my hand a few times wanting some more...:thinking

[Jackie in Tampa]

IMO, it's best to give the med alone..
it is crucial that they get every drop...
a drop really does amtter...
it's meds, it's short term, it's life saving...
give the meds...give a kiss and all will be good...:thumbsup
then wash it down with a martini!:rotfl

[astra]

give the meds...give a kiss and all will be good...:thumbsup
:D

[gs1]

Jo, when I've had to give Baytril, I pulled up the dosage in the syringe and then I pulled up some maple syrup then some air and then I shook it hard to mix it really well. Then I dipped the tip of the syringe in the maple syrup so it was the first taste...yummy maple syrup. I also did this process when I had to give Cody Tramadol for his knee...worked like a charm every time...I told Cody it was his special yummy treat that only he got...after he got that first taste of maple syrup...the rest was history...actually he grabbed at my hand a few times wanting some more...:thinking


mm this is a really good idea.... i wonder how to make this work for rabbits.... they don't do well with real sugar i guess some kind of other non-sugar flavouring... maybe runestonez can suggest....

anyway Milosmom :thumbsup :thumbsup :thumbsup


IR: i think my brain is fine... but then i how would i know...:hidechair:D

[stosh2010]

BUMP---BUMP--- >>>IMPORTANT INFO :>>>

IMO,


it's best to give the medicine ALONE !!!!..
>>>it is crucial that they get every drop...a drop really does matter...it's meds, it's short term, it's life saving...
give the meds...give a kiss and all will be good...:thumbsup
then wash it down with a martini!:rotfl

[Milo's Mom]

IMO, it's best to give the med alone..
it is crucial that they get every drop...
a drop really does amtter...
it's meds, it's short term, it's life saving...
give the meds...give a kiss and all will be good...:thumbsup
then wash it down with a martini!:rotfl

If Jackie says not to mix then do not mix, but honestly, I am almost positive it was Jackie that told me to mix the Tramadol with Maple Syrup for Cody. Maybe not? Who knows and does it really matter?
However, if every drop is important and when taking it straight he bubbles at the mouth and wipes it away, are you POSITIVE that he got EVERY DROP or was some of it wiped away?
I did not have this as an issue when I used the maple syrup with Cody, as he liked it and took EVERY DROP EVERY TIME.
No martini needed.

[Jackie in Tampa]

i am just trying to get the importance of meds understood...for the sq...
yes...meds aree yucky...
but once YOU KNOW that they have taken THE ENTIRE DOSE...
yes, by all means wash it down with something...
but playing around is just that...
when you weigh a pound or less...every drop is crucial...especially ABs...



I am pro sq...that's all

I have fixed alot of broken sqs..I only share what is important and what I truly believe...
I hate alcohol and just said that to sweeten the post...
alcohol kills!:peace

Love you Flash, get welll buddy...:grouphug

[CritterMom]

It was probably me. I had a special needs lovebird that I had to medicate a lot in the ten years he was with me; frequently with tiny, tiny amounts of foul tasting stuff, and yes, I, too, have tasted baytril, and I foamed up, shook my head and wiped my face on my blanket...:D I came up with mixing with something sweet - I like grenadine, actually - INSIDE the syringe after the correct dose of the meds have been pulled up. It is actually easier to dispense a little MORE when the dose starts to be in the ".0anything cc" amounts. I also came up with the idea of manipulating an air bubble right next to the plunger tip to push the last of the liquid out of the syringe - frequently, what I was given to dose little Gus was so small it wouldn't even leave the syringe - it just filled the tip and sat there!

I will say that there is an internationally shipping pet pharmacy a couple towns north of me that I often had blend my meds - their whole "thing" are the flavors they offer - for all kinds of animals - to make meds more palatable. It is a pretty mainstream idea; but most people don't have that on their doorstep, so you have to get creative.

A note: If I was in the situation where I had to grind up a pill and dissolve it, I would never recommend doing that in anything but water, as the thicker syrup will not dissolve it the way water does. That's also why I mix it inside the syringe - I am not guessing on the amount of meds - the correct amount is already in there before the syrup is added.

[Jackie in Tampa]

It was probably me. I had a special needs lovebird that I had to medicate a lot in the ten years he was with me; frequently with tiny, tiny amounts of foul tasting stuff, and yes, I, too, have tasted baytril, and I foamed up, shook my head and wiped my face on my blanket...:D I came up with mixing with something sweet - I like grenadine, actually - INSIDE the syringe after the correct dose of the meds have been pulled up. It is actually easier to dispense a little MORE when the dose starts to be in the ".0anything cc" amounts. I also came up with the idea of manipulating an air bubble right next to the plunger tip to push the last of the liquid out of the syringe - frequently, what I was given to dose little Gus was so small it wouldn't even leave the syringe - it just filled the tip and sat there!

I will say that there is an internationally shipping pet pharmacy a couple towns north of me that I often had blend my meds - their whole "thing" are the flavors they offer - for all kinds of animals - to make meds more palatable. It is a pretty mainstream idea; but most people don't have that on their doorstep, so you have to get creative.

A note: If I was in the situation where I had to grind up a pill and dissolve it, I would never recommend doing that in anything but water, as the thicker syrup will not dissolve it the way water does. That's also why I mix it inside the syringe - I am not guessing on the amount of meds - the correct amount is already in there before the syrup is added.

when a situation of a small critter is at hand...you need to evaluate every treatment and make the solution targeted at THAT critter and his weight...
this is what I do each time I am asked to help dose......
geez people you act as though I have only had one squirrel...
I ain't the med nazi...I swear!:)

[jo_schmoe]

No I am not positive that he gets every drop...because he does foam up and wipes off. BUT...I do know this....SOMETHING is working....he looks SOOOOOO good today. Not a crusty in his ear....either of them. The swelling is gone...and you can see the inside of his ear now. He has NEVER not had goo in his ears in the morning until just this morning.
I give him the meds....and then offer a syringe of grape juice to wash it down. He hates it yes....but its saving his life. Im not sure which med is doing the most work....but he has NEVER looked this good. Pics to come when he's done eating.

[4skwerlz]

No I am not positive that he gets every drop...because he does foam up and wipes off. BUT...I do know this....SOMETHING is working....he looks SOOOOOO good today. Not a crusty in his ear....either of them. The swelling is gone...and you can see the inside of his ear now. He has NEVER not had goo in his ears in the morning until just this morning.
I give him the meds....and then offer a syringe of grape juice to wash it down. He hates it yes....but its saving his life. Im not sure which med is doing the most work....but he has NEVER looked this good. Pics to come when he's done eating.

:thumbsup:thumbsup:thumbsup

[jo_schmoe]

when a situation of a small critter is at hand...you need to evaluate every treatment and make the solution targeted at THAT critter and his weight...
this is what I do each time I am asked to help dose......
geez people you act as though I have only had one squirrel...
I ain't the med nazi...I swear!:)
I will say this.....the dose you gave me is EXACTLY ( well .01 off) what the vet dosed him at. He gets .08 ccs of the baytril just once a day. Vet will see him after 5 days to see if more is needed. The only difference is the baytril that the vet gave was liquid. Its injectable...but we give it orally. Same stuff..I just dont have to crush it and add water.
I can't thank you enough Jackie....Flash is on the mend and its thanks to all of you guys here at TSB. :Love_Icon TSB:Love_Icon

[Jackie in Tampa]

:Love_Icon :) :Love_Icon
thanks to YOU he is doing better...:bowdown
I will say this.....the dose you gave me is EXACTLY ( well .01 off) what the vet dosed him at. He gets .08 ccs of the baytril just once a day. Vet will see him after 5 days to see if more is needed. The only difference is the baytril that the vet gave was liquid. Its injectable...but we give it orally. Same stuff..I just dont have to crush it and add water.
I can't thank you enough Jackie....Flash is on the mend and its thanks to all of you guys here at TSB. :Love_Icon TSB:Love_Icon

[jo_schmoe]

Check him out!!!! He looks so good today.
We have decided to transfer our Pyrenees to Dr. Motter as well. They deserve the best care as well and I'd rather give him the money than our other vet.
He has a ton of energy and his appetite is great.
He's munching on a hazlenut...his treat after the yucky meds.
In these pics I have not done anything to his ears yet....IM SO PROUD OF HIM!!!!
:Love_Icon Flash:Love_Icon

[jo_schmoe]

Whoops...forgot the pic of a his right ear. Here ya go!!

[starfairy]

OMG I love the tip of his tail.:Love_Icon

[jo_schmoe]

I know..I love his one little tuft of hair he has on it!! I would love it more if he had ALL of his fur....I wonder what he would look like.
Notice how good his skin looks. No dark crusty spots...very little flaky skin.
Also....do you guys see the hair around his nose?? :jump

[CritterMom]

Oh, GOD, he is so sweet! The Shar-pei puppy of squirrels! Jo, he is, um, well, a porker!!! LOL! :Love_Icon :Love_Icon

I wonder if now that you apparently have the problem more or less by the tail, if his ears will refine themselves - they are sort of like the "cauliflower" ears boxers get from being hit. And his lion tuft! RRRRRRROOOOOW!:rotfl :rotfl

I did a little reading on that stuff you are using in his ears and that is an interesting product. Gentian Blue has been used for years but this is a combination of 3 drugs that hit viral, bacterial and fungal...talk about your broad spectrum!

Go, Flash!:alright.gif :alright.gif

[jo_schmoe]

Oh, GOD, he is so sweet! The Shar-pei puppy of squirrels! Jo, he is, um, well, a porker!!! LOL! :Love_Icon :Love_Icon

I wonder if now that you apparently have the problem more or less by the tail, if his ears will refine themselves - they are sort of like the "cauliflower" ears boxers get from being hit. And his lion tuft! RRRRRRROOOOOW!:rotfl :rotfl

I did a little reading on that stuff you are using in his ears and that is an interesting product. Gentian Blue has been used for years but this is a combination of 3 drugs that hit viral, bacterial and fungal...talk about your broad spectrum!

Go, Flash!:alright.gif :alright.gif
Oh I know he's a porker....look at his belly!! He's gained over 100 gms since he has been with me....doubled his size. He eats good things though....lately he is craving greens....eats ALL of them. He isn't much interested in the sugar snap peas of green beans. He also loves block.
I really like the Gentizol....I think Motter really knows what he is doing.

[stosh2010]

I finally figured out what FLASH reminds me of...a Rhinoserous...a tiny, shiny Rhino... ..Ha

[jo_schmoe]

BAHHAAHHAAHHAA!!!!! Stosh!!! I wont tell him you said that!!!
But...ya know....he does kinda look like a Rhino!!
With his big round belly and wrinkles he reminds me of E.T.
Turn on your heart light Flash!!!

[stosh2010]

Oh---yeah---FLASH's ears look FABULOUS--keep up the GREAT work--
THANK you TSB and Dr Motter...for all the treatment advice---seems to be working as planned.

[Jackie in Tampa]

I finally figured out what FLASH reminds me of...a Rhinoserous...a tiny, shiny Rhino... ..Ha
oh stosh.....were giggling here....

[jo_schmoe]

uhh ohh....please tell me its ok for Flash to have a small piece of cheese. I went in to check him and I had a piece of cheese in my hand while trying to take a pic. He grabbed it away from me and started eating it.
Acted like it was CANDY!!

[CritterMom]

P doesn't like it but Rama Rota will do almost anything for cheese!

[pappy1264]

Its ok, won't hurt him...just not much, because can cause diarrhea. My flyers are like that with cheese!

[pappy1264]

OMG....LOOK AT HIM!!!!!! We love you, Flash (and Dr. Motter, I could just kiss you!!! I will be writing that letter!!!) I always think of ET when I see his pics, too.....

[jo_schmoe]

Its ok, won't hurt him...just not much, because can cause diarrhea. My flyers are like that with cheese!
Whew!!
*note to self* Put the cheese down long enough to get a pic of your baby! Its not going to kill you! :thumbsup
:Love_Icon Cheese:Love_Icon

[jo_schmoe]

OMG....LOOK AT HIM!!!!!! We love you, Flash (and Dr. Motter, I could just kiss you!!! I will be writing that letter!!!) I always think of ET when I see his pics, too.....
See!!! ( Keep all this between you and me and dont you EVER tell Flash what Im about to say). When I first laid eyes upon his sweet little bald self.....I thought he looked like Golum.:sorry :dono
Now that he is my baby and Im head over heals in love with him....I see him more like E.T.
Take a look....

[CritterMom]

Look at the difference in SIZE!! He has chubby little arms.:Love_Icon OMG! Klunk.

Much more ET - he is a benign little sweetie pie!

[Pierre]

See!!! ( Keep all this between you and me and dont you EVER tell Flash what Im about to say). When I first laid eyes upon his sweet little bald self.....I thought he looked like Golum.:sorry :dono
Now that he is my baby and Im head over heals in love with him....I see him more like E.T.
Take a look....


A portly ET at that!! :grouphug :Love_Icon :Love_Icon :Love_Icon

He's so cute!! He looks like a little elf. :)

[jo_schmoe]

Look at the difference in SIZE!! He has chubby little arms.:Love_Icon OMG! Klunk.

Much more ET - he is a benign little sweetie pie!
He has chubby little everything!!! And I can't ever seem to get pics of him without the chocolate sprinkle factory in full gear...:shakehead

[krawls]

I have always thought he looked like Gollum.
What a cutie pie! :Love_Icon

[RamaMama]

NO NO NO..... Not Gollum ! ! ! ! I love the character (in his rightful place of Middle Earth), BUT, he wasn't very NICE ! ! ! ! :poke :poke :poke :poke


A cute little Elf .... YEAH ! ! ! ! ! :crazy :crazy :crazy :crazy

ET........ Gotta LOVE him ! ! ! !
:peace :D :peace

Sweet Flash, he is a Great ET ! ! ! ! ! .
:wahoo

[jo_schmoe]

:Love_Icon Rama Mama:Love_Icon
We're just pokin.....LOL.

Flash has had a lot of out time today. When I was taking him back to his cage...he acted like he wanted to go over to the other Reds....so...what Flash wants Flash usually gets. I held him so he didn't bolt...and he just kept trying to get in with them. They acted like the were scared of him...and all ran away. Poor guy just wants friends!!!! :Love_Icon

[island rehabber]

Lurking here always....and as madly in love with Flash as everyone else...:Love_Icon :) :Love_Icon

[jo_schmoe]

Lurking here always....and as madly in love with Flash as everyone else...:Love_Icon :) :Love_Icon
He was just up lurking....over a tomato!! LOL
And he loves you TOO!!!

[muffinsquirrel]

Every time I see a pix of that cute baby, he reminds me of a NEKID ARMADILLO !!!!
:rotfl :rotfl :rotfl :rotfl :rotfl

But he IS a sweetheart, and I'm so glad he's doing so much better.

WAY TO GO, FLASH!!!!!!!

muffinsquirrel

[Chickenlegs]

Not ONE thing about Flash that doesn't scream PRECIOUS!!!!!!!!!