10 year old squirrel not well [Archive]

Booter

05-29-2012, 01:39 PM

We have a friend who has a 10 year old squirrel named Punky
Punky has been with our friend who has no computer..
10 years maybe more, Punky's mother was hit by a car and Punky was found by the side of the road..his jaw was not quite right, not broke though.
With my help and advice, Punky has lived a wonderful life, having his own building in the back of the house where he has been for at least 10 years..free roaming, ( tree limbs everywhere construted like you see in the zoo, there's a cage with an open door )..by the time Punky was able to crack a nut, he was too domistcated to leave loose...thanks to having a spare building on the property, Punky has led a wonderful spoilt life..he is very domesticated and very smart, very affectionate and used to alot of attention, loves to play, loves to be pampered, knows his name , even does tricks when asked....my friend even has a TV in there along with a recliner, to spend time with Punky every morning and night...Punky even uses his natural woods/dirt litter pans
Thanks to my computer, I have been able research through the years for info on what is the best foods for Punky, and have provided these foods myself, because my friend has a limited income.
Punky's diet is nuts, a small salt block from Farm Supply is there , which he does nibbles on once in a while..old deer antlers too..and grapes, fresh corn on the cob and corn on the cob that the outdoor squirrels eat.
Through the years, Punky has been very healthy...even has a huge window for natural sunlight, and several Squirrel houses to nest in...he never was a good climer though due to being a little clumsy.
Last month, Punky suffered a very bad seizure..I was once a registered nurses aide years ago, and can assure you , it was a major seizure.
After much care ( Punky thinks I am the Momma due nuturing him since he was found )...he recovered....not completely himself, but, ate good etc...then yesterday, he had several seizures and is now, extremely weak....he allows me to massage him, and has ate 2 grapes...has settled down to just sleeping but, occasionally heavy breathing and once in a while a slight jerk....his body is limp, as though he is so tired...he really is too tired to do anything
The owner wants Punky to be able to " sleep away " at his home, and not be trumatized by being forced into a pet carrier and finding a vet that will look at him, which in this state is a no way deal...which is understandable...the owner is retired and I am too ( I live next door ) and so , 24 / 7 care has always been there for Punky...but, we are lucky to be able to do that...as that is what it takes to raise one of these dear creatures
Please help.....I do not expect Punky to survive, yesterday's seizures were a horror and he ran into the wall and corners here and there...not injured, but, surely has at least a concusion..I am also worried about his teeth...he has been slow this month to work on his teeth ( he lets me check his teeth, and no broke teeth, but, with this extreme weak condition, how will he keep his teeth in check ?
Any advice please, Punky deserves the best

pappy1264

05-29-2012, 02:03 PM

Ok, first off, his diet has been completely wrong. Seizures are most likely from MBD (Metobolic Bone Disease). His diet has been divoid of calcium, so the body leeches it from the bones. Seizures are on of the signs of MBD (and his clumsiness could be as well.) He will need emergency treatment for MBD. You will need to get tums, if you do not have them. You will have to make a paste to administer to him. I would also suggest for his safety (his bones are most likely soft and he can easily fracture or break something just jumping) he be confined to a small cage. You also may want to put heat under half of it and cover it to help him feel secure and also to keep the heat in (heat can help with the aches). this is very serious and after 10 years, I would imagine his body is in pretty rough shape.

Just so you know, corn, nuts, etc, are not a good diet for squirrels, esp. one that is not loose in the wild and cannot get food other then what you feed it.

I will get the sticky for the MBD treatment and post it in a second.

You should also copy and paste this in the emergency section to get more help.

copied from another post:

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

You will need:

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

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

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

Long-Term Treatment for MBD

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CritterMom

05-29-2012, 02:08 PM

Have you read about metabolic bone disease? The diet you describe is lacking in calcium.

If this sweet old buy was mine I would get at least 500mg of calcium in him TODAY, and read about MBD. The seizures are a symptom.

You can use Tums, you can grab one of your own calcium pills for now. Grind it and get it into him one way or the other. And read our onfo on MBD. I am sure someone will post the link here - I am at work now...

BigNibbler

05-29-2012, 04:09 PM

I was very touched by this story. I sure hope you listen to Critter's advice.
There is so much wrong and uninformed information all over the internet.
Ten years is a long time. You have a special relationship.
I have read squirrels can live much longer in captivity.
But so many fail to even make it past their first birthday.
You are all lucky to have known each other.
I hope the building continues to be put to such good use!
And that I will read of some recovery over time.

Both phosphorus and calcium are needed by squirrels. But it takes an equal amount of calcium to metabolize any phosphorus that is ingested. All the foods you mentioned, have more phosphorus than calcium. This dynamic relationship, leads to the body drawing on the calcium in the bones as a last resort. Calcium is critical for all the body's system, including its neurological system.

Metabolic Bone Disease, as the name suggests is when the body's metabolism has too often needed to call on the calcium from the bones.
By this time the whole body is affected in a myriad of ways.
It is important to minimize the animal's movement. Too easy to break bones! It is probably in pain from a host of abnormalities.

And to change a diet is not easy as squirrels of any age are picky eaters.

I would try to mix a cup of Vanilla Yogurt, with a cup of Fox Valley Formula powder, briefly boiled arugula, sesame seeds, a splash of honey, and maybe some powdered almonds. Just to give that nutty flavor. Almonds have the highest calcium to phosphorus ratio. But still they have more phosphorus than calcium. However the other ingredients will more than make up for it. I would also mix in some Calcium Carbonate. Maybe a teaspoon. Beat it all good. Then chill it. It should be about 35 degrees when served. You can add honey to sweeten if not appetizing enough.

I have much less experience than many on this board. But thought this might be helpful. Eventually rodent nuggets should be served daily to keep the teeth ground down.

This is only the beginning of good nutrition.

Please give us an update. I am praying for some more time with your wild friend.

Booter

05-29-2012, 06:07 PM

patjones

05-29-2012, 06:19 PM

Best of luck with the boy you can change his diet and he will eventually eat right I have been through that and it is harder on us than them. Sounds like you are doing all the right things 10 years is a ripe old age for a squirrel hope he bounces right back.

Jackie in Tampa

05-29-2012, 06:30 PM

my goodness, you saved my boy !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
we are in a bad storm right now, so, I cannot get out to buy a syring, but, I was able to get the crushed tums in him by opening his mouth and putting it in...shocking, he is awake !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I will copy your instructions as soon as I get back...going back over
it will take alot fo convincing about the diet, my neighbor was very determined to give Punky that ear of corn..but, once the sotrm is over, I will get more tums , a string and rodent blacks, will be back as soon possible
goignover to Punky now, who is actually lookinh into my eyes again !!!!
I can't thank you enough !!!!
goal is to get 500 mg of calcium in him within a 24 hour hour period..
some tumms are 500mg and others can be 750
MBD is painful like arthritus, more so, keep him warm and treat him like glass please, keep him in a small container, his bones are weak and brittle.
CORN IS VERY DANGEROUS AT THIS POINT< throw it away...
They are also fragile minded, and any sudden activity or loud noises can trigger seizure activity.
Even turning on a light can bring on a seizure..I have seen this many times.
Ideally after each seizure you should rum molasses or log cabin syrup on his gums. Seizures deplete brain calcium, molasses has small amount of natural calcium! and the sugar helps level glycemic load..Calcium depletion can cause muscle cramping and digestive disorders, osteoporosis and bone loss, depression, anxiety..everything bad.
will ck back..thank you for starting the treatment..please do not deviate..stay with the info given in the sticky...:thumbsup
good luck and healing vibes!:grouphug
I have a ten y/o with MBD history:grouphug

Booter

05-29-2012, 06:38 PM

Punky opened his eyes and even looked at me after I opened his mouth and put the crushed tums paste in his mouth....and he actually stood and walked a few steps...chewed on a grape because his mouth seems to be tender...he is refusing water from his bottle...I tried getting more Tums in him, but, he is now warning me to let him alone, teeehee..he is doing this warning while hugging my finger...I can feel his front teeth are too long, so, I need to work on getting him to wake up enough chew.
I have wrapped him in his blankie that I use when rocking him ( he really is like a little baby )
The trees used in his room are real trees..I used the ones the Squirrels in my back yard habitat chew on, so, he does have bark every day and always had...also fresh branches from outside too, with leaves....when I say he has a tree house, it's for real..real tree branches everywhere, all tied together, with rope and platforms and so forth so he would get lots of play..he also plays with me and my neighbor too..he likes to do tricks too...shows off :-)
He also has several huge tubs of dirt and rocks to play in besides his litter dirt...and a huge rock from the farm I was raised on when a kid, that he saws his teeth on once in a while.
So, he is a healthy fellow, but, unfortunately, due to all the nuts and the wrong diet, his age caught up with him almost over night.
My neighbor is falling apart, but as soon as he saw Punky look out from the blankie, my neighbor has settled down and realizes Punky does need that Tums.
Once this storm is over ( it's a bad storm here ) I am sending my husband out for the syring, fresh tums, and the rodent blocks....I will follow your directions to the max.
I will keep you posted..I cannot thank you enough...I was so desparate..thank you, a zillion thank yous

Nancy in New York

05-29-2012, 07:16 PM

I know it may not be possible, but could you get a photo of his teeth too? We have some members in Maryland that may be able to help with trimming, if that's what is needed. Not sure where you are located, and where they are located...but we can try.
Also can you get some deer antlers, and some bird cuddle bones, they have calcium in them and it will help with the teeth.
Hydration is so important....keep pumping hydration fluids into him. You can use pedialyte or homemade hydration, but do either one for no more than 24 hours....but this is critical too.
1 tsp salt (teaspoon)
3 Tbsp sugar (tablespoon)
1 quart warm water

Keep refrigerated.

island rehabber

05-29-2012, 07:25 PM

Booter you are in the best of hands here with the members who are helping you! Reading this thread just now was like watching a well-orchestrated dance: one member coming in where the other left off and leaving no stone unturned when it comes to treating MBD. :bowdown Team TSB does it again.
I am standing by with prayers and good energies going out to this venerable old gentleman squirrel -- hang in there, Punky sir, we'll get you better!

Jackie in Tampa

05-29-2012, 07:27 PM

I would make a goatsmilk gruel with rat blocks and yogurt, some calcium, and whey isolate protien ground up..maybe add a smidge of blueberry and banana..
MBD sqs usually do have teeth issues, so this would fit with his other symptoms...yes pics would help alot.
His diet is so crucial right now..
to help with his painfull bones, you can fill a sock with dry rice, tie sock off, heat in microwave for 30ish seconds, smush rice around to distribute hot spots..the rice buddy will make him comfy and warm...please do this. You can also use a heating pad set on low HALF under his small container, make sure it does not get too hot, just warm.
Thank you and your neighbor for loving and caring about him. I hope you can turn him around...
the next 72 hours are crucial, he may have times where he appears to be magically healed, this is a false euphoria...HE WILL RELAPSE..do not stop as you think he is WELL, he's not.
This treatment has to be maintained for days...after a new diet is established, adjustments will need to be made and followed without any deviation..
NO JUNK FOOD!
After you have him stable, you can read about the hEalthy diet in our nutrition forum, it has list of good and bad foods..
it has alot of info to keep captive sqs healthy.
Hope you can get those pics:poke

island rehabber

05-29-2012, 07:30 PM

Booter, I have a feeling your biggest problem is going to be getting Punky's actual owner to comply with all this great advice. The MBD protocol MUST be followd to the letter -- no cheating, no days off! Maybe you can print out the posts above to show to her?

Jackie in Tampa

05-29-2012, 07:35 PM

did we ask about hydration??
have you dine the tent test?
gently k
lift the skin between shoulders, if it stays tented..he needs hydration..
there is a homemade pedialyte recipe posted on TSB also.

If he is able to swallow, I would mix the tums into a solution after you get a syringe...
if you need detailed instructions with amounts etc, some one will help you.
a dehydrated sq has no appetite or desire..
hope you can get that syringe soon...
while you are out you can pick up some goatmilk, yogurt, more tums and maybe the nutrional drink ENSURE..and a heating pad if you don't have one.:thumbsup
I usually buy things with vanilla flavor...
keep him warm.

BamaHam

05-29-2012, 10:02 PM

I learned something from Dr. Oz. Calcium is better absorbed if taken with magnesium. It also keeps you from getting constipated. I guess its the same for all of us, human or not. I gave it to my squirrel and he did fine. Just wanted to pass it on.:Love_Icon

Nancy in New York

05-29-2012, 10:09 PM

Hydration is so important....keep pumping hydration fluids into him. You can use pedialyte or homemade hydration, but do either one for no more than 24 hours....but this is critical too.
1 tsp salt (teaspoon)
3 Tbsp sugar (tablespoon)
1 quart warm water

Keep refrigerated.

Jackie, I gave the recipe for the homemade hydration fluid.
One more important thing, Jackie mentioned a heating pad. I have one that I will gladly send you that is brand new, with a chew proof cord. It keeps it a constant temp. low and just really snuggley.
If you can email your address, I will get it out in the mail tomorrow.

Margie

05-29-2012, 10:19 PM

Booter did say that he had old deer antlers to chew on in the first post.

Booter

05-30-2012, 07:24 AM

The calcium has made a huge difference...I have to open his mouth and tuck it in, he will not take it any other way.
When he was comatose, it was much easier....but, he is up now.
Although he definitely has the disease, he has always been active...and so ole Punky is very strong.
I got him to drink water from his bowl yesterday...a lot of it..and thankfully this morning, he drank and drank from his water bottle.
The last seizure a few days ago, happened for no reason....he was on his branch, I was in the chair watching the TV, while my neighbor went into his house to get something.
Then zoom, he flew off the branch so fast, I did not know if he fell or what....then, it was like a boomerang with flipping like a circus performer, only sadly hitting his head multiple times on the trees.
Now, he was very limited memory.....and although I know he can see, his memory is not recognizing what he sees.
I will get the tums in him a little at a time throughout today and will continue the treatment as per your instructions...
I have to go over the mountain to take care of my forever young 84 year old cousin...it's just taking her to run errands, but, time consuming and at the same time wonderful because we enjoy each other's company big time, she has an anxiety disorder, however, is an amazing person to have survived all these years...she looks like she is only 50 and wears a pair of jeans better than a 30 year old, teeheeee...
My husband will stay over there with Punky while I am gone....thank goodness for TV, teeheeeee....a recliner with a TV...a man is happy :-)
So, I have been working with Punky for about a month...right when he was almost back to himself, this series of seizures happened and well, I am not sure the Punky we once knew will ever be the same.
But, he's a member of the family and we are treating his change as if he has Alzheimer and just needs more care.
As far as taking a photo of his teeth, Punky is very paranoid due to his memory loss, but, be assured, I know his teeth well...they are a little long and O.K. for now, but, I need to get him chewing soon...which he will with my urging.
He is a little mad at me now, so, I could not get any Tums in him this morning, it is 7 A.M. and will wait till 9, by then, he will be settled down again. At least he drank a lot of water.
While massaging him and checking him for broken bones yesterday when he was, I am sure next to dying, as he totally limp and out of it...I found little beads near his anus, like little bebes...4 tiny ones, like pimple under the skin and feels like the bebes we had as a kid for our toy guns.
So, we may have more of a situation than just his bone disease.
One cannot escape aging...and although Squirrels have been known to live to be 20 in captivity, how they age is another story.
I have my laptop over here, and as I type I see him on his branch , eyes wild and head tilted to the side like he always has done, as though to say, well, are you going to pick me up and cuddle me in the blankie or not...but, when I approach, he turns his head as a no way, forget it, teeheee....
like I say, this fellow has been talked to as though human since a few weeks old, treated as though human, and does not know he is a Squirrel...
last year a Squirrel kept coming to his big window wanting to get to know him and he snubbed her, teeheee...came over to sit on the chair and stare at the TV instead.
I will get back to you this evening to let you know his progress.
If there is anything like Tums for humans, let me know, I sure could use that miracle worker for myself..I am not a Spring Chicken anymore :-)
All of you are so wonderful to help me.
Punky is loved by all 3 of us, and my neighbor is a widower, and elderly...all these years I worried my neighbor would die and how would I move Punky...only to have this happen instead..and Punky is indeed his true buddy...we loose Punky, I could also loose my other buddy too.

island rehabber

05-30-2012, 07:35 AM

Booter, you AND your hubby are beautiful souls. We are privileged to have you among us in the TSB family. I know that if Punky is going to get better than you will achieve it....:bowdown

Jackie in Tampa

05-30-2012, 07:35 AM

Ten years experience advises ONE MORE TIME..small cage where he cannot injure himself.
He is not well, this treatment has to be done for many months..

you wrote
'The last seizure a few days ago, happened for no reason'
it happened because he has no calcium in his blood and organs, bones or brain. At anytime he could seize and die... you are SO NOT OUT OF THE WOODS.
I am also happy he feels better, but believe me when I dsay, this forum knows what can happen, we know what to expect..
and the only way to make chance is thru diet and tough love.
He is not well, thank you for following advise, please continue.

You need to burrito him in fleece and syringe feed him 500-600 mg of calcium a day..
allowing him to make choice is why he is where he is.. you have to take control and get the calcium in him, start now and it will be easier on him to accept it, because he should have NO CHOICE.
I know I sound severe..
I would hate to see him in ALL SQS GO TO HEAVEN.:grouphug

pappy1264

05-30-2012, 07:41 AM

:goodpost Please heed this advice. this is very serious and he is far from out of the woods. I am also concerned about him banging his head. The last thing he needs is a head injury on top of this.

Booter

05-30-2012, 11:29 AM

It's O.K.
Although Punky is not dehydrated, and looks much more like himself, he is not himself....
I also warned his ederly friend ( a fellow that is 89 and I joke with him saying he is my other man, teeheeeee ) that Punky needs quiet and rest..
So, the syring is not working, and thank goodness Punky still remembers me as Mom, because although he fussed terrible, I got his mouth open to put the tiny piece of ground Tums in his mouth in his throat where he had no choice but swallow it, which he did...
He is in his old wood covered bridge made from old barn doors not store brought, and made many years ago..I am into antiques, so you can trust me on that ) with the sheet over it.
I did the skin test, and he is not dehydrated, he always drank alot of water..and drank last night out of his bowl, and this morning from his bottle..alot of water, willingly.
He still lets me massage him, but, does not want his blankie which is a wonderful warm blanket cut to fit him in my arms.
I do know, he can go into seizure for no reason, even in his covered bridge which he has been using the past week....so, although he looks so much better, it is a life and death situation....I will be honest and say, if he has another seizure, I pray it takes him home, so he will be at rest.
I was a private registered nursing assistant for a few years, many years ago, private duty with an agency.......I was not hospice, it was with a health care agency.... I took care of people in their homes when they were at death's door....death usually does not come in a blink, unless a siezure take's him.
All of us want him better, but, if it is not to be, we pray he does not suffer.
I am able to handle his limbs, no pain...I honestly think, the last seizure has knocked him out.
When I take my cousin for errands today, I will get cuttle bone and the goats' milk....doubtful that I will be able to get the goat's milk, it's a small mountain town....
Anyway, I just checked him again, gave him a good back massage to help him sleep...he is snuggled in his sheet..the covered bridge which is also covered in the sheet.
I put the blinds down at the 2 windows too, so, all will be quiet while I am gone.
I have my neighbor in his house, instead of Punky's house.... I told my neighbor Punky could get another seizure with no warning..and he said he could not bear to see that again...so, he is in his house...Punky in his..and I am ready to go over the mountain to my cousin's...will be only gone about 5 hours at most because she knows about Punky...her father ( my uncle ) had a pet Squirrel many many years ago ( before my time ) ...we are all big time animals here, teeheee...they are our life :-)
So, till tonight my wonderful friends, thank you so much.
Booter

Nancy in New York

05-30-2012, 08:15 PM

Hope all is well with little Punky and that you had a wonderful day with your cousin....Just wanted to check in and see how things are going.:grouphug

Booter

05-30-2012, 08:48 PM

Well,
I finally made it home.
I took a photo of Punky, but, do not know how to post it, so, I emailed the photo to the person that responded to me via email so she can hopefully post his photo for you.
Punky does not appear to be in pain...never did..and when I mentioned he was never a good climber, I meant , I always felt he was not as fast as the other Squirrels, but then again....his trees are not huge like the ones outside.
I think he has injured his head very badly...injured his brain.
I am still using the Tums because he squirms and tries to run when I try the syringe and I do not want to cause him to injure himself....before I found you, he was limp, in a deep sleep, now, thanks to you, I am able to wake him and get the water in him and the Tums.
I have to tuck the tiny piece of Tums deep into his mouth and massage his throat till he swallows it, then I give him water , he drinks his water via his water bottle now...and drinks well
My husband said he drank well for him while I was away taking care of my cousin today.
At this time, Punky still seems dazed , but thanks to your advice does wake up when I prompt him , and massage him.
So far, happy to say , teeth look O.K....but, I really need him awake more to start functioning...all he wants to do is sleep. He will not take food...I think it is possible that when he hit his head this time, it was one time too many :-(
It's been a tough time...my hubby and my neighbor kept saying Punky was fine, and I kept trying to tell them he was not because he had a tremor..that was a few weeks ago when I kept perstering both of them, something was not right with Punky...and that he was not himself, and when I would hold him, he would snuggle deep in my arms, it was so very sad.......and then, the seizure..and a week later I think it was, another.....
I am at a loss as to what to do..he is confined now in his covered bridge.
Do you have any advice as to how to get food into him ?
I can get the tums in, because it is a small chunk, and Tums dissolves...food does not.

CritterMom

05-30-2012, 08:59 PM

Yes, absolutely. I would eventually begin giving him Fox Valley formula again but for now, go to any drug or grocery store and get some Ensure - those nutrition shakes. Vanilla is good, they even have a pecan flavor! Heat it and feed with a syringe at first, just like when he was a baby. It is sweet and yummy and packed with nutrients and calories.

I would get some Fox Valley formula, and you can eventually shift him to that. He may eventually be happy to lap it out of a little dish - at that point you can start adding some ground up blocks into it and slowly start getting more solids.

But for right now short term, get some Ensure.:thumbsup

Nancy in New York

05-30-2012, 09:09 PM

Here's Punky....he is just adorable.:Love_Icon
http://i673.photobucket.com/albums/vv95/nancym518/TSB%20photos/untitled-10.jpg

Nancy in New York

05-30-2012, 09:15 PM

Yes I would do what CritterMom suggests. If you want to pm me your name and address or email me your name and address, I can get these things out to you first thing tomorrow morning. You would have it by Saturday.
I have the Fox Valley and the pecan ensure....just let me know.
So right now Punky is not eating anything? What happens if you try to tempt him with a nut?:dono
Let me know if you want me to send this stuff, it may just do the trick...:dono

Booter

05-30-2012, 09:49 PM

OK, I will try the Ensure...if I can get it in his mouth like the Tums, then , I will ask for the Fox Valley stuff...unless it is carried at pet stores ?
My cousin is elderly, so, although I hated to leave Punky alone for a few hours, it was a must do....my cousin, who never married, has that problem like that movie RainMan....she remembers dates, her childhood, can even spell any word backwards..able to pay her bills, but needs help since she does not drive anymore and is hyper active.
But, I have arranged someone to stop in and check on her for at least 2 weeks while I stay with my Punky boy, and help my neighbor accept this situation...no time off is the norm, I do not go on vacations etc, he has always been my vacation :-)
My neighbor let me keep him in his back building because he loves Squirrels too, and had lost his wife at that time, and Punky helped him through the grief.
At this time, Punky has nibbled on a fresh cherry, one yesterday and 1 today...please understand, I tired the other foods but it was a no go...but, I will be firm tomorrow...I just do not want to hurt him by holding him down, to get the food in him.
I just checked on him, and want you to know he is sitting well, and repsonding to all three of us....which is a miracle...and thanks to that Tums.
So, I am going back over to tuck him in with a massage...tomorrow, my hubby will get the Ensure and the other stuff you mentioned if you can tell me where to buy it...I live in a town/ small city, many stores...everywhere...you would eb amazed at where my little backyard habitat is....I'm in a town that is cutting down trees, a paving everything, jsut to have the big store close it's doors due to the ecomony..won't get into that, sorry...
So, we can all take a sign of relief...just for now...he has a long ways to go, cause I really do think he injured his brain this time...hope I am wrong.
I cannot thank you enough for being here for me
I will say, Punky was seriously injured when he was brought to me 10 years ago, after his mother was hit by a car....she was carrying him to safer ground and when hit, he was thrown far....when he was about 6 months old, he was running on his runway and slid on a piece of wood I had just put up and fell...we thought he was blind then...but, finally after 4 days, he came through it....and never had any more problems till about 3 weeks ago.
That's why I think he really hurt his head bad this time, it reminds me of what happened when he was a baby.
Hugs to everyone, big hugs

Scooterzmom

05-30-2012, 09:55 PM

Ensure even makes a pecan flovored one... and my experience has been that squirrels love it

Nancy in New York

05-30-2012, 09:59 PM

You cannot get the Fox Valley in the stores you have to buy it on line.
I will gladly send you some tomorrow, but I need your name and address.
If you would rather order through the company you can do that at:
http://foxvalleynutrition.com/main/home.asp

OR you can order it through a member here and she could even overnight it to you if you want.
http://www.henryspets.com/

BamaHam

05-31-2012, 01:45 AM

You need to start his calcium treatment, 500 mg daily for the first week. Tums is not enough. That was just enough to stop seizures and death. He is in pain so he is going to lay around and not play or do any normal activities for probably a couple of weeks. Seizures make them very tired and sore. He is sick and will act sick for a while. He has a long road ahead of him and needs his rest. Offer him water and food in bed. Provide him warmth also for his pain. A heat lamp or sunlight feels good to them. I would handle him as little as possible unless he wants you too. Hope he does ok. I know this is scary for you. Been there, done that.:Love_Icon

Booter

05-31-2012, 08:00 AM

It's been a good morning.
Punky has ate a cherry and part of a snap pea and has drank alot of water twice...when I say alot, he always was abig water drinker, so, he drinks so much so long from the water bottle that our arms get really tired from holding it so long....so, that's why he is not dehydrated, thank goodness.
He has allowed me to put the tums in his mouth and massage his neck till it is disolved.
Although weak, his anxiety has settled...he is eating in his confined space....however, this morning he went to the edge of his covered bridge and lifted the cover as though to say, what's up, teheeee.
He will not accept the heating pad, instead only wants his sheet that is formed like a cocoon for him to nestle in.
Punky is a large Sqirrel, but, I can see some weight loss and his tail is not as fluffy as it was, but, after being at death's door before I got help from everyone here, I think there's a chance he may survive.
I have ordered a better syring from Henry's Pet Supply....and Picky Squirrel blocks too.
Today I will buy the almond ensure and foods from the Squirrel diet list.
Punky also chewed on his cuttle block today too.
He is now asleep, blinds pulled down so he can rest.
I will keep you posted, cause it helps to tell someone all this to get it off my mind....he is my baby and I will do anything needed to get him well.
My neighbor is doing much better and has decided to watch his TV gain in Punky's house and keep watch in case something happens unexpectly....which before all this, that was the norm for my neighbor...Ole Punky sits and stares at the TV on the back of the chair...they have always been quite a pair...Punky is not doing that now ofcourse, but that was the rountine when he was well.
I am following your instructions and can't thank you enough for your help...this morning, when Punky lifted the sheet and looked out at me as if to say, what's up....it was a direct eye to eye contact...honest to goodness I felt like pinching myself to see if I was dreaming.
I know he has a long ways to go..and it is going to be complete nursing care for months, and I am prepared and able to do that.
But, will keep posting so you all will know how he is, and can give your advice which is most valuable to me.
Hugs to all of you, huge hugs to each and every one of you that are true angels.
Booter :-)

Nancy in New York

05-31-2012, 08:51 AM

Helping people like you is such a pleasure. I understand why you love your little Punky, he's adorable.:Love_Icon
You are doing wonderful, keep up the good work, this is life changing for him, and he will be better off because of it.
Thank you for finding help for him....:grouphug

SammysMom

05-31-2012, 09:14 AM

Keep up the good work! Punky is precious!:grouphug :grouphug

Booter

05-31-2012, 04:42 PM

:thankyou :thumbsup
When I finally decided to risk all and find help for Punky, he was at death's door...he was limp, so weak, he could hardly open his eyes...labored breathing...I just could not let him go this way...and after much research on the net, I found this board.
I know it will be months before he is able to run around like he did before, playing hide and seek with us, and jumping out from no where to scare us....but, thanks to you all, there is hope.
As I type this, my hubby and my elderly neighbor are staring at Punky as he sits eating his squash, and his tomato!!!!!
Like two old timers, they are saying, " Well, I'll be, I can't believe it, well I'll be darn".
I ordered those picky treats from Henry's on the net and they have been shipped..I also ordered a syring.
I forgot to buy the ensure :-( But, will get out again tomorrow and will get it then..I have a note in my purse to remind myself.
He is still confined to his covered bridge, but sitting at the entrance while they are there in case he needs help...
I am taking a break to take care of a few things, but, when finished, I will give him another tiny piece of tums, and tuck him back in bed.
The amazing thing is, Punky's new diet is how I eat...I love my raw squash, raw snap peas, tomatoes and even raw asparagus ....how cool is that.
I will keep you posted.
I do not know how to thank everyone..I hope somehow you know how special each and every one of you are.
mjs

Jackie in Tampa

05-31-2012, 04:48 PM

Come on Punky old boy...
we are all pulling for ya!:Love_Icon

HRT4SQRLS

05-31-2012, 05:09 PM

:wave123 Booter,
I have been quietly following Punky's story for the last few days. I can't tell you how thrilled I am to see this latest update.:multi Your devotion and love:Love_Icon for Punky is so clear. You definitely have a 'heart of gold' as you pour yourself out for Punky and those around you. I am touched. I am so thrilled for you--- your beloved Punky is returning.:alright.gif

Yes! We are ALL pulling for you Punky!:thumbsup

Nancy in New York

05-31-2012, 05:13 PM

Booter

05-31-2012, 08:02 PM

I am finally going to have a good night's rest, thanks to this board of wonderful people.
Punky says, thanks for saving him too.
I will check on him at 9 to give him a tiny piece of Tums and water..give him a massage and then finally relax for real
HOOORRAAAYYYYYYY for all of you, and for my wonderful Punky too.
A little note, he lifts his front paw up now as he gets his massage, which means he knows Momma is taking care of him....my heart feels like singing.
:peace :grouphug :)

Scooterzmom

05-31-2012, 08:40 PM

I'm so very happy to hear of Punky's progress. Every time I see this board rally and manage to help one of our little guys I'm in awe. It always serves to remind me how lucky we all were to find this place... we're lucky, and our babies are.
:bowdown

BamaHam

05-31-2012, 09:41 PM

Glad to hear he is doing better. I know how scary that is to go through. And if it wasn't for the wonderful TSB folks I wouldn't have my Hammy today. Yes , they are great and thank God for their talents of raising our furry friends. Thank God for computers too. We would all be in the dark guessing .:Love_Icon

Chickenlegs

06-01-2012, 02:31 AM

Awwwwww--I'm SO glad to hear Punky is feeling better :Love_Icon :Love_Icon :Love_Icon

Skul

06-01-2012, 04:00 AM

Please remember, recovery takes a bit of time.
It took a while for Punky to get to that point, and will take him a bit to recover.
You've done well.:thumbsup
Thank you for helping the little guy.:)

BigNibbler

06-01-2012, 04:55 PM

I am so glad to hear he is doing better.. But its better to err on caution. If you had some type of enclosure that was only 18 inches high but large, he could get some physical activity, but not be able to fall. If he is let out of the cage for the next few months he could fall and break something. If he is kept in, he will not be eating as much and that will make it a slower recovery.
Also not sure why you cannot use a heating blanket under part of the cage.
Maybe he is not used to that blanket on top of him but at least underneath he would feel the heat. I think the space should be about 80 degrees. And it probably is not . So a blanket would be a big help. Sometimes multiple attempts are needed to get a squirrel to accept things.. just like humans !

GREEK yogurt is a good source of calcium. But you got to compensate for the sour flavor of plain yogurt. Pure ( non alcohol based ) vanilla might work. I like honey... then you can also chop up other healthy vegetables into it.

Suggest a quick boil of them to make them a bit softer and remove the bitter tang from some.

Did you get the link to the healthy vegetables?

Squirrels have various personalities. It sounds like Punky will accept the new diet once he starts feeling better. And that is great!

Good luck Punky. You can make it to 15!

Booter

06-01-2012, 08:47 PM

Well, it's been quite a day.
Punky really looked bad this morning....I was able to hold him in my arms and massage him, and examine him better this morning.
I think, he really hurt his nose area bad when he had the seizures...he does not seem to be able to smell the food till I break it open.
He has always been a very clean fellow....so, I have finally seen him have a bowel movement, ( well several, you know how they are, teeheee ) which was a relief..but, for all of the water he has been drinking, I am still waiting to see him relieve himself much more than he has...but, all is working, at long last.
I have massaged Punky's limbs well..his tummy seems to be tender as he was never ticklish, and always would stretch flat out backwards when I would do his tummy...but, now, he winches when I try to rub his tummy, so , it must be sore.
Punky never liked to be hot ( he has the luxury of several Squirrel homes ( nesting boxes ), teeheee, we call then his retreats...one in the summer, one in the winter and so forth..and he really does use each one as the seasons change.......
So, although the heating pad sounded good, when he refused his blankie, I did not even try a heating pad because his anxiety was the worst problem....he did not remember where he was, or even what he was, he only remembered me...not my neighbor or hubby..not his nest, or even his water bottle...so,when I finally got him to accept his area, trying to place a heating pad in there would have made him flee for his life, no kidding , it was that bad....
I still feel his sight was impaired because he kept looking up and was terrified and confused.
As of this morning, he has calmed down, and now recognises things and the anixety seems to be mostly gone....thank goodness...he is still a little confused, but not terrified .
He is eating his good foods too, and is chewing on his trees to cut his teeth. He snubbed his cuttle bone, but nibbled on the block I got at the pet store that has minerals etc in it.
I am able to get the Tums in him after a long massage.
He has aged over night, and I have to confess, so have I.....but, at least he has a chance, where before is was not going to be.
I do not think he will ever be his good ole self again, but, that O.K....as long as he is well and not suffering.
He even groomed himself today.
I am not ready to be without my Punky boy...I have read that domesticated Squirrels have been known to live 20 years.
Thanks to all of you, I think he will be around a little longer..as long as he is not hurting, I am happy.
Before the seizure incident, I felt he had a headache....I have a good sense with animals...all animals...and I knew his head was not right.
When I sense that again, I will listen to my instincts and put him in a very restricted area where he cannot hurt himself again.
He is still in the covered bridge and safe there...I would nto risk him hurting himself.
I will continue to follow everyone's instructions, especially when it comes to the foods.
It's hard to tell if he will recover....and if he does, I know it will not be overnight....and I am also very terrified of another seizure...so, for Punky's sake I have become very protective... I cannot risk another seizure.
If he would break a leg, what on earth would I do....my goodness, God himself has surely been with me and Punky, that is for sure.
Thanks for listening...it's been a long day....I have just tucked him in bed for tonight....he's had a good night and will sleep well.
Oh, and his Picky Squirrel blocks should come tomorrow which will be another relief...as he needs good vitamins etc to help him get well.
Hugs to all of you...keep rooting for ole Punky ...he's a dear little character, who honest and truly does not realize he is a Squirrel cause he has really had 24 / 7 attention all of his life....more than a kid gets really :-)
Hugs to each and every one of you :-)
Booter:wave123

Nancy in New York

06-01-2012, 10:14 PM

When he pees, does it seem like he is in pain? Can you judge the amount of pee that he is doing?
I know you must have said it, but is he drinking a good amount? Hydration is so very important.
Get well soon Punky....we all are pulling for you and love you.:Love_Icon

BigNibbler

06-02-2012, 09:07 AM

Sorry... is he in a cage ? Put the heating pad under part of the cage. If the cage is big, I would use my electric blanket that I have for the bed. Put a sheet of plastic over it, then the cage on top of it. But if you have a heating pad, and the cage is small, that will do. I keep reading about anxiety.. Punky's anxiety has nothing to do with heat. Maybe seeing the pad if he is not familiar with it.

Look, he is supposed to be 99degrees. If the room is below 80 degrees, under the circumstances, with his compromised condition and the struggle that his metabolism is forced to undergo due to calcium deficiency, then he needs to be warmed. Put your hands deep in your armpits. That is a bit cooler than he should feel to you. If feels warm, your hands are probably cool and he is loosing heat to you...Heat is very important. Heat affects everything.

Regret is a terrible thing. He needs to be warm, get as much calcium as possible, and that I think must involve liquids that you can feed him with a large nippled syringe. Don't worry about the teeth for a few weeks. He can eat solids later. He has no nest buddies to snuggle with. He is not very physically active, and he no doubt is depressed. Squirrels are very emotional creatures. His is not feeling well all over. He does not know why. His mentation.. his mental behavior could actually be somewhat influenced by both his chemical in-balances as well discomfiture .

I do not participate much on this forum because there are fantastic experts here with big hearts, and I am still learning. But I just wanted to add this post, because if you read your words, - sit back and read them objectively, they sound like you are very conflicted. That is because you want to believe and have hope but the evidence in front of you is not so convincing.

Positive thinking is good. But not if it causes you to withhold or delay action that could make a difference.

Ten years is a long time. I have relationships with squirrels that are six years, and that seems long. I cannot imagine how you will feel if you lose Punky, and frankly, neither can you. So just do everything now, so you have no regrets later.

If Punky sees treats he likes, or if he has reason to believe you will give them, he can hold off eating what he needs to eat. The first thing you give him should be what he needs to get better. If he likes a food, and it has a strong or identifiable taste, then I would grind it up or break it up, and mix it with what I want him to eat. Strategically that makes more sense then just letting him eat those treats alone...

BigNibbler

06-02-2012, 09:19 AM

just saw your post about how to get food into him. If he drinks but does not want to take food, then maybe pull the water dish out and feed him liquid like formula and yogurt diluted, got to taste good though. I would make notes on his drinking cycles so that I know he is surely getting the hydration he needs but would try to make the hydration also nutritional.

Booter

06-06-2012, 12:19 PM

Huge happy news !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
This morning is the first my Punky boy looked at me, did a little jive and smiled !!!!!!
He is eating his veggies...and even chewing on the mineral block !!!!
And, I cannot get over this, he let me give him his little piece of Tums without much fuss !!!!
He even went over to his dirt box!!!!
So, although he has been through a true near death ordeal and has a long journey to being well again, I finally see hope that he will return to his own personality again...it's a miracle !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Eating very well, stayed up longer this morning....drinking well....I am one happy happy lady....we all are
Just wanted everyone to know that even when it does not look good, there is always hope...Punky is proof of that
Hugs to everyone, big hugs !!!!
Booter