Adult (i think) Fox Squirrel hit by car

[Badmojo420]

Ive had this squirrel about 36 hours now +\-. She was hit by a car the other night... Not like "ran over" but more like a glancing blow. I saw her get hit and I knew it was going to happen..... so sad. She took off running from the street so I thought she was ok but upon closer inspection I noticed a bloody nose so I got closer to pick her up (she bit me in her fright but i dont blame her) and also noticed her bleeding from her eye. There is a patch of missing fur on the top of her hear where I would assume she was struck (at least partially).

Extremely bloody I took her in and kept her warm all night with a sock of rice and a bottle of warm water. The animal hospital wouldnt/couldnt do anything for her and sent me off with her basically said to just keep her warm and offer her food and water. She has been drinking (pooping and peeing too) but not eating. I have a small syringe of Karo corn syrup the animal hospital gave me to give her a couple drops at a time which ive been doing. She is drinking occasionally though. Not sure how much squirrels need to drink lol.

The hospital informed me there may be internal injuries such as bleeding or hemorrhaging and that I shouldnt get too attached because its a 50/50 chance she could live. Im prepared for the worst but hoping for the best.

She is obviously in pain and that is my main concern right now. I really just want her to be comfortable. Is there anything at all I can do for her pain? Im really tight on money at the moment (living in a motel while looking for a more permanent place to live) but I am willing to spend some of what I have on her if I have to.


Im not planning on keeping her as a pet. I am eagerly awaiting the day I take her close to where she was hit to be released but until that day she will receive the same love and attention I give me house pets.

Another question I have and this might just be wrong, I dunno (which is why im asking). Does THC help with pain management in other mammals (such as squirrels)? I really want to smoke with my squirrel if it will make her feel better.

Cannabis is very healthy for human consumption, is the same true for squirrels? I know some squirrels eat it fresh off the plant but what about the actual smoke? I just want to blow a couple small hits in her box for her.


Please note. I didnt read through your policy and Im not sure how you feel about cannabis. It is federally illegal but I have medical reasoning to use cannabis and I am a member of a native american church and this is my religious sacrament so I apologize if I offended anyone by mentioning cannabis. It wasnt my intention to cause problem, I just want my squirrel to be comfortable. I havent smoked my squirrel yet, I came here to ask for more experienced opinions first. Sorry for long post, Im just rather concerned. If there is any other info you need just ask and ill post. Thanks so much everyone,

Love and Light
[/I]

[astra]

Thank you for saving the squirrel and looking for help.

Experts will be here soon with suggestions - please keep checking often.

I would not smoke anything.
Smoking generally is harmful to them.

Moreover, there is no research on the effects of cannabis on small mammals.
What might be ok for a large human, can be lethal for a tiny animal, whose system is much smaller, whose metabolism is much faster and different from ours.
So, no smoke of any kind for her.

If you can find INFANT ibuprofen where you are - that can ease the squirrel's pain. But it must INFANT.
Do not dose it yourself - someone here will help you dose it.

For now - keep it somewhere where it is dark, warm and quiet (no kids, no pets, no loud appliances etc)

:thankyou

[Kelly Brady]

Hi badmojo420,

I agree with Astra. No cannibus for the squirrel. No offense taken by the thought though.

I cannot dose the INFANT ibuphrophen but we can get someone to you soon that can.

How large/old is your squirrel? Does it look full grown? Or smaller?

Have you been able to get her to drink water? AFter an injury like that she will really need a rehydrating solution such as pedialyte but on this site is a homeaid pedyalite you can mix. I believe it will be found in the emergency section.

As Astra said, keep her warm in soft blankets and quiet and also let us know what you have offered for food.

Thank you so much for helping her. You are so sweet to do so. We will get you help soon.

[Kelly Brady]

Here is the solution that will help her to get fluids back in her system.

Should not be too hard to get these ingrediants. Hydration Fluid.

1 quart warm water
3 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon salt

She is probably in shock and needs to be given much needed hydration. You may try to help her take it by using a syring with no needle full of the fluid and giving her some in her mouth on the side of the mouth. The more you get in her the better. Warm fluid is best.

[pappy1264]

As posted, warm, dark and quiet. Is she still actively bleeding? If she took a blow to the head/mouth area may be sore and unable to really eat. If you don't have a syringe, go to a pharmacy, tell them you need a few 1 cc syringes (for an orphan kitten). Hydration formula was posted. Wrap in a piece of fleece or a sweat shirt, try to keep eyes covered, and slowly going in from the side, put the tip of the syringe in her mouth, slowly pushing down on the plunger so it goes in just a drop or two at a time. She may struggle, so keep a good hold on her. She needs fluids. If you can get a quick full body pic of her, we can sort of guesstimate on a weight for the infants ibruprofen. She will need it for pain. How is her breathing, can you hear any wheezing or liquid sounds, like someone with a stuffy nose? Many times there is blood in the nasal passages which makes it tough to breath. Is there any swelling around eyes? Once you get some fluids into her, can discuss other foods to try to offer, but I think pain meds are also needed asap. Make sure she is on a heating pad on low (under half her enclosure). And keep her mostly covered, give her some fleece or old tshirts to burrow into, as well.

[Badmojo420]

i cn get a pic later on. i think she weighs around a couple pounds no more than 2 and a half. i have offered her unsalted peanuts and some peanut butter (i know its not the best but i thought she might be sore and not want to eat anything hard). The peanut butter is all natural btw.

She is not bleeding anymore but still a bit bloody around her face a little. I could see a tiny small amount of pus forming in her eye wound. Ill get some really good pics when I get back home. Her face is still swollen a litle bit. I will pick up some pedialyte and some infant ibuprofin. I dont have a heating pad but her box is next to the base board heater and she is warm and has a fleece baby blanket and an old t shirt. Shes still a little nervous when I pick her up. She immediately runs up my arm and curls up into my beard and dreads lol.

oh, i think she has been drinking. I put a shallow bowl of water in her box and she seems to wash herself off a little bit. Im pretty sure she was drinking some of it too. She has peed and pooped and it looked normal.

[CritterMom]

Save some money - use the hydration solution that Kelly described -

1 teaspoon salt
3 Tablespoons sugar
1 quart water

You don't need to spend $$ on pedialyte.

Fox squirrels are pretty big and the dosage on the infant ibuprophen is very forgiving. I would do 0.3ml (or cc - same amount) every 4 hours as needed.

Can you post your approximate location - we may have members who can help you in a more hands on manner. :thumbsup Good on ya for stopping!

[Badmojo420]

eastern panhandle west virginia.

Ill use that solution instead then. Is it ok to use raw sugar with the molasses intact and is it ok to use himalyan salt? i dont have processed sugar or table salt on hand.

[pappy1264]

Ok, pus isn't good, may need to get ahold of some antibiotics for her. Baytril, or Cipro (which is a human drug but will work). I don't know who might be in your area who may be able to help, hopefully others might.

[Nancy in New York]

Ok, pus isn't good, may need to get ahold of some antibiotics for her. Baytril, or Cipro (which is a human drug but will work). I don't know who might be in your area who may be able to help, hopefully others might.

I just put a thread in the emergency section for help in that area.

[CritterMom]

eastern panhandle west virginia.

Ill use that solution instead then. Is it ok to use raw sugar with the molasses intact and is it ok to use himalyan salt? i dont have processed sugar or table salt on hand.


Those are fine:thumbsup

[Badmojo420]

how do i upload an image?

[SammysMom]

You are new so may not be able to upload. Email to me at vfwpost7666@sbcglobal.net and I will post it here for you.

[SammysMom]

I am so sorry it took so long! Had to run out. Here is the squirrel in question.

[Badmojo420]

She is eating now. I got some of that rehydration solution inside her. She didnt take very much but I can see she is not terribly dehydrated by her skin elasticity, but i gave her as much as she would take none the less. Shes nibbled on a couple peanut halves and I have a litttle piece of apple she is nibbling on now. I gave her the slightest amount of infant ibuprofen (not even up to the first line) diluted with some of that solution and after 30 minutes i could tell she is feeling better. she did not eat until i gave her the ibuprofen.

edit: i should clarify, not even up to the first line of a 1ml syringe. about half of the neck where the needle fits on so maybe a drop or two at most which was diluted also

[CritterMom]

She appears to be an eastern gray to me, not a foxer...Back off a bit on the ibuprophen dose I gave you - probably more like .17 to .25 ml every 4 as needed.

[CritterMom]

May I also suggest some Ensure - the nutrition drink they make mostly for elderly people - sell it everywhere...vanilla or butter pecan...warmed up - I would offer by syringe first. It is sweet so they usually like it, and it is PACKED with nutrients and calories and fat. It is a really good way to keep these injured wilds going until they can transition to real food.

[Nemehoto]

Thank you for trying to help her, I'm a newbie squirrel foster mom... I just wanted to give you a thank you for doing what you can for her.

[krawls]

How far are you from Boyce VA? There is a great rehab place there and they take squirrels.

http://www.blueridgewildlife.org/

[Badmojo420]

i feel connected to a lot of animals and i would have been more hesitant to help this squirrel if itt werent for my previous experience with a couple squirrels. shes adorable and i love her but i dont think she would make a good squirrel i think shes too old so i think we will both be really happy when she is back in her natural home :)

i had a question though, she bit and scratched me a little bit. should i be worried about rabies or any other disease?

[Badmojo420]

How far are you from Boyce VA? There is a great rehab place there and they take squirrels.

http://www.blueridgewildlife.org/


45 minutes maybe an hour or so. its driveable but i dont have a vehicle anymore. i might be able to find a friend willing to drive though

[krawls]

Let me know if you need help with transport. I am not too far away. I will not be home from work until noon tomorrow. You can PM me. IR can you give Badmojo420 PM access if needed?

[Nemehoto]

Rabies is very rare in squirrels and the only other thing I can think of that could be transferable from squirrel to human is West Nile... but she would be extremely sick before hand to worry about infection.

If you wash the scratches and bites with a soap and use peroxide and neosporin it shouldn't get infected... (My 2 babies scratch me all the time) since you don't know where her feet and claws have been, you definitely want to clean and sterilize any scratch or bite.

[Jackie in Tampa]

are you close to Harpers Ferry?

[Badmojo420]

Harpers Ferry is about the same distance away. I will try to find a friend and see if they can take me there.

[Jackie in Tampa]

Skweeks mom is in harpersferry, I will Pm her to this tghread.

[Nancy in New York]

Let me know if you need help with transport. I am not too far away. I will not be home from work until noon tomorrow. You can PM me. IR can you give Badmojo420 PM access if needed?

He has pm access...:thumbsup

[Croquette]

Everytime I read a story like this one, it moves me. People helping each other to help a little animal... Awwww, it's so beautiful. :Love_Icon

[Squirrelis]

:grouphug hang in there little squirrel- thanks for helping the little fuzzer out badmojo- good karma will come your way:D

[skippy]

I am so sorry it took so long! Had to run out. Here is the squirrel in question.

Unconditional Love.
What a sweet photo of her on your neck.
Of course she most likely has head trauma and is a bit docile but I believe she intuitively knows where she is safe.
Thank you for caring for her and doing what you can to get her the help she needs. Looking forward to a full circle recovery back to the trees for this lucky lady.
Awesome!
:)

[Badmojo420]

Unconditional Love.
What a sweet photo of her on your neck.
Of course she most likely has head trauma and is a bit docile but I believe she intuitively knows where she is safe.
Thank you for caring for her and doing what you can to get her the help she needs. Looking forward to a full circle recovery back to the trees for this lucky lady.
Awesome!
:)


Thank you!! Unconditional love is right. I think there is some head trauma. Well I am certain of it. How serious it is I could not tell you. The really good news is her bad eye is functioning fine. Im 90% certain it dilates when I shine a little led in her eye for a second. Its so small though its hard to tell. She barks, growls, squeeks, and talks! She is very vocal. She got a little aggressive with me over her food but she was just guarding it. I only try to handle her when she seems stressed out... I just let her hang out on my shoulder. She is opening up to me holding her more and more little by little though. Here is another pic of her sleeping I took this morning in the little nest she made. I didnt even need to put her rice sock on there last night! i stuck my hand in her nest to cup her and she felt warm to the touch. Soon as she wakes up shes gonna get some more medicine and hopefully she will feel wonderful all day today.

https://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/47385_526416044058174_307003714_n.jpg

[sadie7684]

She is a beautiful girl! Thank you for taking care of her! Sending good vibes for a fast recovery. :) :Love_Icon :)

[CritterMom]

It sounds like you guys are more into alternative but what are the chances of you getting your hands on some prednisone? It is commonly prescribed to humans for bad upper respiratory infections and is normally presented in a little blister pack where you take like 6 or so pills on day 1, 5 the next, 4 the next, and so on. They are usually 4 or 5mg each. Neuro symptoms are often the result of swelling in the brain and prednisone is a powerful anti-inflammatory that knocks the swelling down really fast...

[Badmojo420]

It sounds like you guys are more into alternative but what are the chances of you getting your hands on some prednisone? It is commonly prescribed to humans for bad upper respiratory infections and is normally presented in a little blister pack where you take like 6 or so pills on day 1, 5 the next, 4 the next, and so on. They are usually 4 or 5mg each. Neuro symptoms are often the result of swelling in the brain and prednisone is a powerful anti-inflammatory that knocks the swelling down really fast...


Not likely. Not unless I could get it at a place like Tractor Supply Co or the animal hospital. Like I said before, Im willing to spend some money but I cant break my pockets, I have to move really soon. Sounds expensive.. could be wrong though lol. Some of the swelling has gone down since I gave her the ibuprofen.

[Kelly Brady]

She is precious,

I just want to cuddle her up.

I wish there were more people like you to stop and help a fuzzer in need the way you did.

Many times they are too scared and injured to have the reflexes they need to get away from predators.:thankyou

Is she taking in the hydrating fluids?

Also you may offer her some branches to chew on and maybe some veggies. If she is taking in fluids she will no doubt get an appetite going.
As crittermom said syringing some Ensure or offering some in a bowl would be nice. It can be expensive so use a little at a time and refrigerate the rest. She will never take the whole thing at once. Some places sell one bottle at a time such as Walgreens. Well here in Florida anyway.

[Badmojo420]

Yes she is drinking and eating. I just have some peanuts and apple's right not but some.fresh veggies will have soon. I also got her a rabbit habitat. I know not the best but certainly better than a box.

[SkweeksMom]

Sorry guys, I just checked email. What is the status if this little one. I am 30 min from Boyce in Harpers Ferry. I can transport tonight if I need to. I work until 7. I will keep checking in and PM my cell #.

[Nancy in New York]

Sorry guys, I just checked email. What is the status if this little one. I am 30 min from Boyce in Harpers Ferry. I can transport tonight if I need to. I work until 7. I will keep checking in and PM my cell #.

It's so nice to see you back here. I miss you, and little Skweeks. You are one of my favorite peeps....:grouphug

[SkweeksMom]

Awww, thanks Nancy! We miss you too. Things have been nuts (haahaa, cracking myself up) be we are stil here and loving our squirrely friends. Whatever can be done to help fuzzers in need we will do.

I PM'd my cell number. Jackie - your inbox is full so I couldn't set you my number in case you need it.

[Badmojo420]

I think she may be ready for release soon. I really dont know though. My parents had a brand new rabbit cage they never got to use and Chakra (thats what i named her) isnt quite sure what to think of it. Its got a ferret hammock and a water thing and food bowl. I tossed in a couple apple wood sticks too. I gave her a dose of ibuprofen this morning and she doesnt seem to need it anymore, the blood around her mouth adn nose is really caked in the fur. Do you guys think she is ready for release? Theres a bad storm coming really soon, should I wait for that to pass if she is ready to release?

[Nancy in New York]

I think she may be ready for release soon. I really dont know though. My parents had a brand new rabbit cage they never got to use and Chakra (thats what i named her) isnt quite sure what to think of it. Its got a ferret hammock and a water thing and food bowl. I tossed in a couple apple wood sticks too. I gave her a dose of ibuprofen this morning and she doesnt seem to need it anymore, the blood around her mouth adn nose is really caked in the fur. Do you guys think she is ready for release? Theres a bad storm coming really soon, should I wait for that to pass if she is ready to release?

What makes you think she is ready for release? Is she fighting the cage? Geez with a bad storm coming, you mean Sandy? :dono

[SammysMom]

Maybe SkweeksMom could take him for you? The caked blood still being there doesn't sound too good to me.

[Badmojo420]

I think she is nearly ready for release just based on her behavior. She doesnt seem to be in pain very much anymore. Shes fully active and running around and climbing the curtains lol.

Shes never resisted the box I had for her and I didnt really have any trouble getting her in. She just kinda clinged onto the top door so i flipped her over attached to the door and closed it lol. Shes mostly just been hanging out in the top corner kinda but has been coming down to check things out. She wont let me take her out right now though. Well.. I havent tried but i know she wont. Shes only been in it for an hour now.

[Nancy in New York]

I think she is nearly ready for release just based on her behavior. She doesnt seem to be in pain very much anymore. Shes fully active and running around and climbing the curtains lol.

Shes never resisted the box I had for her and I didnt really have any trouble getting her in. She just kinda clinged onto the top door so i flipped her over attached to the door and closed it lol. Shes mostly just been hanging out in the top corner kinda but has been coming down to check things out. She wont let me take her out right now though. Well.. I havent tried but i know she wont. Shes only been in it for an hour now.

You know....I think that if you can give her to SweeksMom she would be better off, than being released. Squirrels are supposed to be wonderful at masking pain. She really looked bad just yesterday.......so I would hate for her to be released with such a monster storm coming.
Can you give her branches etc. to chew on? What exactly is she eating?
Oh, and thank you soooooooo much for saving her....:grouphug

[skippy]

Oh Mojo;
I have a young adult now that was hit by a car. It has taken him over a month to recover from his injuries.
Her face took a hit it seems by the photos and your description of her injuries. Their is a chance the cartilage in her nose is damaged, teeth can be knocked out of alignment which would impair her ability to survive. You've been such a HUGE help at caring for her up to now but head trauma takes more time to heal. So much swelling, their cognitive abilities and sometimes their eyesight is affected too. My guy here was not responding properly to visual stimuli until just 2 weeks ago. We've had others that appeared to be okay but after being seen by a vet were blind. Please do what you can to get her to the member who has offered to assess and care for her. Please don't release her, she needs to be 100% before she is put back into the wild and care for herself. She won't make it on her own especially with the bad weather and no nest made or food stored anywhere. Hoping you two connect and her recovery is a success thanks to your open heart and mind.

[Badmojo420]

Im not gonna release her. Not yet anyways. Especially with the bad weather coming in. Just wanted some others opinions on what they might think. Ive been in contact with Skweeksmom who offered to take her if needed. Right now Chakra is ok though. Shes eating, drinking, sleeping, playing, etc.. everything i think a a squirrel should be doing :)

Her teeth might be slightly out of alignmnent now that I think about it after you mentioned it. When she was drinking form the syringe i thought it looked like a tooth wasnt in the right spot but I couldnt really tell and it doesnt seem to bother her when she cracks peanut shells and sunflower shells but I will keep a close eye on it.

The pus in her eye (see close up face shot) seemed to be gone last night before bed. When she wakes up I will give her another examine.

[lilidukes]

Im not gonna release her. Not yet anyways. Especially with the bad weather coming in. Just wanted some others opinions on what they might think. Ive been in contact with Skweeksmom who offered to take her if needed. Right now Chakra is ok though. Shes eating, drinking, sleeping, playing, etc.. everything i think a a squirrel should be doing :)

Her teeth might be slightly out of alignmnent now that I think about it after you mentioned it. When she was drinking form the syringe i thought it looked like a tooth wasnt in the right spot but I couldnt really tell and it doesnt seem to bother her when she cracks peanut shells and sunflower shells but I will keep a close eye on it.

The pus in her eye (see close up face shot) seemed to be gone last night before bed. When she wakes up I will give her another examine.


Is it pus in the eye or white tears due to pain??

[Badmojo420]

Is it pus in the eye or white tears due to pain??


I am certain it was pus. It was only on her injured eye. Not "IN" her eye but in the very corner (inside to the nose). If you look on the first page at the bottom, the second picture you can see a small white dot of the pus. I dont see it there anymore though. Shes been cleaning up really well, theres not very much blood left on her at all. Whats left is just caked into fur, she cleaned up her mouth and nose on her own.

I thought there may have been infection in her eye wound, and perhaps there was, but it doesnt appear that way now. None the less Ive been watching her injuries rather closely. Even the scabbyness around her eye from the close up is nearly gone.

[lilidukes]

I am certain it was pus. It was only on her injured eye. Not "IN" her eye but in the very corner (inside to the nose). If you look on the first page at the bottom, the second picture you can see a small white dot of the pus. I dont see it there anymore though. Shes been cleaning up really well, theres not very much blood left on her at all. Whats left is just caked into fur, she cleaned up her mouth and nose on her own.

I thought there may have been infection in her eye wound, and perhaps there was, but it doesnt appear that way now. None the less Ive been watching her injuries rather closely. Even the scabbyness around her eye from the close up is nearly gone.


Just asking because in the first pics there would not of been time for infection to have set in yet unless she had a prior injury. JMO but it looked like white tears of pain to me.

Every car hit kid I have had has stayed with me for weeks before they were ready to be released at least the ones who could be. You might want to consider for the squirrels sake letting someone more experienced with squirrels take a look at her before you just turn her loose. Second opinions are always a good thing.

[Nancy in New York]

I totally agree, letting someone with more experience would be the best possible thing for her.

[Badmojo420]

Just asking because in the first pics there would not of been time for infection to have set in yet unless she had a prior injury. JMO but it looked like white tears of pain to me.

Every car hit kid I have had has stayed with me for weeks before they were ready to be released at least the ones who could be. You might want to consider for the squirrels sake letting someone more experienced with squirrels take a look at her before you just turn her loose. Second opinions are always a good thing.


Yeah I wasnt just planning to "turn her loose" lol. Just trying to gather as much information as I can. Perhaps you are right about the white tears. She didnt seem to have any other injuries when I took her in though honestly... who knows. I took her to the animal hospital the very next morning after she was hit and there was nothing they could really do for her (legality issues). They just told me to keep her warm and to give her some karo syrup so they gave me a small syringe of that but she didnt want any of it but as soon as I put rehydration solution in it she was all about the syringe. She drinks anywhere from 2-5 CC's every 4-5 hours... I also have a rodent water bottle in there but im not sure she knows what it is much less how to get the water out lol. Maybe shes not interested in it though. I didnt think she would take to the water bottle but it was like 4 bucks so i figured id give it a shot. maybe she will warm up to it.'

every time i put a water dish in no matter how full or how low she just jumps in the bathes in it and makes a mess everywhere lol.

[Jackie in Tampa]

T^hank you for sharing her wonderful update...
however as NINY has mentioned, sq will mask pain... they are the smallest mammals on the food chain yummy list, so they never let their weakness's show.
Stress tears will come and go as fear and noise do... try to keep her quiet..
I would absolutely let Sweeks mom be involved here as she knows what to look for in sq mannerisms...
Thank you SM for coming to her aid... TY!!!

yes, we would not want to just throw out a young sq would we??:shakehead

[Badmojo420]

T^hank you for sharing her wonderful update...
however as NINY has mentioned, sq will mask pain... they are the smallest mammals on the food chain yummy list, so they never let their weakness's show.
Stress tears will come and go as fear and noise do... try to keep her quiet..
I would absolutely let Sweeks mom be involved here as she knows what to look for in sq mannerisms...
Thank you SM for coming to her aid... TY!!!

yes, we would not want to just throw out a young sq would we??:shakehead

I will get in contact with her about making a proper assessment of her condition later in the afternoon. Since they are so good at masking their pain i went ahead and assumed she is still in pain and gave her a little bit of ibuprofen again. Are there any books or online material I should look at? Ive been doing my own research but its really scattered and what I do find I find myself having to go over it again or a few times because i lose my train of thought when I go searching for the next thing. We have a pretty good library and im willing to purchase books as well, im just not sure where to start looking for something like that.

[Nancy in New York]

I will get in contact with her about making a proper assessment of her condition later in the afternoon. Since they are so good at masking their pain i went ahead and assumed she is still in pain and gave her a little bit of ibuprofen again.

Probably a good idea about the ibuprofen....:thumbsup
With that being said, sometimes when we medicate them,
they start feeling so much better, and want to ram around and
could wind up re-injuring themselves, so try to keep her contained somewhat.

Yes contacting SkweeksMom for an assessment would be a fantastic idea.

[Badmojo420]

Probably a good idea about the ibuprofen....:thumbsup
With that being said, sometimes when we medicate them,
they start feeling so much better, and want to ram around and
could wind up re-injuring themselves, so try to keep her contained somewhat.

Yes contacting SkweeksMom for an assessment would be a fantastic idea.


She hasnt really let me take her out of the cage yet but shes only spent the night in it and I think she feels a lot more comfortable in there than in the old bloody cardboard box she was in before. I could get her if I really wanted to but she resists me taking her out so I just let her say in, I dont want to cause any unnecessary stress.

I dont really have a nest box for her.. Should I bury a cereal box or something similar under the bedding with the opening sticking out at the top? I got her a hammock but she hasnt been interested yet.. She usually either seems to climb the cage a little or curl up in a little nest the made in the corner.

I will try to give her some outside time later on. Outside the cage, not outside outside. Ill leave the door open for her and she will find her way out if she wants i figure :)

[SkweeksMom]

I am going to meet Chakra tomorrow. I have been around a few young ones with neurological issues but never full grown adults. I am sure the signs and behaviors will be very similar if not the same. Mojo is doing a very good job caring for this little one and I don't want to take her from her home turf this close to winter but if she does have neuro issues and needs meds I will be glad to transport her.

[Nancy in New York]

I am going to meet Chakra tomorrow. I have been around a few young ones with neurological issues but never full grown adults. I am sure the signs and behaviors will be very similar if not the same. Mojo is doing a very good job caring for this little one and I don't want to take her from her home turf this close to winter but if she does have neuro issues and needs meds I will be glad to transport her.

Perfect, I think we all will breathe a little easier once you see the little bugger. Yes the symptoms should be the same.
I wouldn't worry about taking her from the area right now, first things first. She could always be brought back after she recoups...:dono
Meds may be able to help even after this amount of time, so we will be waiting for your assessment of the little one.
Please keep us posted.
Thank you Mojo for saving her.
Thank you SkweeksMom for helping too!:grouphug

[Badmojo420]

Perfect, I think we all will breathe a little easier once you see the little bugger. Yes the symptoms should be the same.
I wouldn't worry about taking her from the area right now, first things first. She could always be brought back after she recoups...:dono
Meds may be able to help even after this amount of time, so we will be waiting for your assessment of the little one.
Please keep us posted.
Thank you Mojo for saving her.
Thank you SkweeksMom for helping too!:grouphug


Anything for my little furry critters! Sometimes it gets me in trouble though :thinking

I sent Chakra off with Skweeksmom who will give her a proper assessment. She mentioned she thinks she may has some neuro issues as well as possibly a tooth issue, compaction or an abscess and they can give her all the proper meds she might need. Definitely gonna sleep a little easier tonight knowing she is being well taken care of :thankyou I miss her already!

I can still see her family/friends peeking their heads up around the fields looking for her :( I know she misses them so much I really hope she is releasable.

[Nancy in New York]

Anything for my little furry critters! Sometimes it gets me in trouble though :thinking

I sent Chakra off with Skweeksmom who will give her a proper assessment. She mentioned she thinks she may has some neuro issues as well as possibly a tooth issue, compaction or an abscess and they can give her all the proper meds she might need. Definitely gonna sleep a little easier tonight knowing she is being well taken care of :thankyou I miss her already!

I can still see her family/friends peeking their heads up around the fields looking for her :( I know she misses them so much I really hope she is releasable.


You are amazing.
I know how much you loved your little buddy.....and you giving her to Skweeksmom just shows everyone how much.
Thank you for giving her the gift of life.....twice!:grouphug :grouphug :grouphug

[SkweeksMom]

Mojo you are a wonderful person with a wonderful heart. I am so touched with all he has done for this beautiful little creature.

I have Chakra home and was able to get her into a burrito and take a look at her teeth and face. Her lower jaw is out of alignment and her bottom teeth are to the left of her uppers. Her right nostril is still plugged with a scab. It's hard to say if it's just dried blood or the nasal passage is damaged but there is a scab blocking the nostril. I was moving her from her carrier to a cage and she got away. She did not try to go up as a normal squirrel would do. She tried to burrow under some things on the floor and her balance is off. She clings to the cage but is unstable. I think there is definably something neuro going on. Since her teeth and mouth are injured I mixed up some FV with a dab of almond butter. She took about 6 cc's. She was not interested in plain water. She is in the dark and quiet now and I found my Rescue Remedy. I will spray her feet and see of that will help her settle down a little more.

Suggestions, recommendations?

[Jackie in Tampa]

glad the transfere happened..
thank you mojo for being so unselfish and allowing the sq opportunity to be evaluated... and for keeping her safe.
Thank you Sweeksmom

[SkweeksMom]

The good news is Chakra hates me and being that she is an adult wild animal I am thrilled. She tries to attack the syringe when I feed her the FV. Once she decides it's her food she laps it right up. She ate a large piece of avocado and 2oz of FV. I checked on her a few minutes ago with a red light so as not to disturb her and she was curled up sleeping peacefully.

I heard back from the amazing rehabber that I have leaned on before and she said to bring Chakra to her tomorrow morning and she will assess her. Her biggest fear is he jaw being out of alignment and her not being releasable. As wild as Chakra is she isn't sure she will be able to adjust to being in captivity and having her teeth trimmed regularly.

I am hopeful there is still a chance for this beautiful little angel. Has anyone have any options in the event her teeth are never going to be normal?

[Badmojo420]

The good news is Chakra hates me and being that she is an adult wild animal I am thrilled. She tries to attack the syringe when I feed her the FV. Once she decides it's her food she laps it right up. She ate a large piece of avocado and 2oz of FV. I checked on her a few minutes ago with a red light so as not to disturb her and she was curled up sleeping peacefully.

I heard back from the amazing rehabber that I have leaned on before and she said to bring Chakra to her tomorrow morning and she will assess her. Her biggest fear is he jaw being out of alignment and her not being releasable. As wild as Chakra is she isn't sure she will be able to adjust to being in captivity and having her teeth trimmed regularly.

I am hopeful there is still a chance for this beautiful little angel. Has anyone have any options in the event her teeth are never going to be normal?

Thank you again for coming to get her. We both really appreciate it, even if she hates you :P That makes me happy that she is resisting and maybe there is a chance she will be able to be released. If her teeth are screwed up permanently maybe it would be best that she lives the rest of her life at the outdoor squirrel sanctuary thing you told me about. I wouldnt want to hold her back or keep her uncomfortable in a cage for the rest of her life.

[Nancy in New York]

If her teeth are out of alignment, please correct me if I'm wrong, but I think there is a possibility of them going back into alignment.
Actually this happened to a member a long time ago on this board. She had gotten a car hit squirrel and the teeth were messed up. She ended up overwintering her and the squirrel needed frequent teeth trimmings. BUT after about 5 months (with less and less trimmings) she ended up being releasable.
Not even sure if I could find the thread now, but the members name was foxsquirrels, and this was probably about 4 years ago.
It had a fantastic ending.
I hope that the rehabber gives her time to come around.....just tell her that euthanasia is a choice you can't take back.

[astra]

If her teeth are out of alignment, please correct me if I'm wrong, but I think there is a possibility of them going back into alignment.
Actually this happened to a member a long time ago on this board. She had gotten a car hit squirrel and the teeth were messed up. She ended up overwintering her and the squirrel needed frequent teeth trimmings. BUT after about 5 months (with less and less trimmings) she ended up being releasable.
Not even sure if I could find the thread now, but the members name was foxsquirrels, and this was probably about 4 years ago.
It had a fantastic ending.
I hope that the rehabber gives her time to come around.....just tell her that euthanasia is a choice you can't take back.
:goodpost
I, too, remember reading about it (just don't remember the thread)

It's perfectly normal for a wild distressed hurt prey animal to display as much vigour and aggression as possible - it's instinctive and perfectly normal.
She's been through unfamiliar places, faces, creatures and ways of being handled within a couple of days - it's totally normal for her to act the way she does, and it would be very unrealistic to expect her to be all docile and cuddly.

IMHO, it's too early to make any kind of prognosis on how she will handle captivity/overwintering based on a couple of days of getting hurt, taken out of familiar environment and being handled by people.

[Nancy in New York]

I found the thread about Angel.......what an amazing story.
Funny too, because I actually got to meet Gail. We met at a mutual friend's house in Maine two summers straight (missed last year though:shakehead )....and had a ball. She became one of my best friends, and to this day....I love her to pieces.
http://thesquirrelboard.com/forums/showthread.php?t=15014

[SkweeksMom]

This poor baby has been through too much for me to let her go without one hell of a fight. I will be taking her first thing in the morning. The rehabber said she will get me meds for the pain and swelling.

Thank you Nancy for the link and a story with a happy ending. As long as Chakra is willing to fight to live I will fight right along side her.

[Nancy in New York]

This poor baby has been through too much for me to let her go without one hell of a fight. I will be taking her first thing in the morning. The rehabber said she will get me meds for the pain and swelling.

Thank you Nancy for the link and a story with a happy ending. As long as Chakra is willing to fight to live I will fight right along side her.

I know you will, she couldn't be in better hands.
You are just so wonderful to go to the lengths that you and your husband have. :bowdown
Skweeks is one lucky little bugger to have both of you in his life. :Love_Icon
Keep us posted. I know you are the best thing for Chakra right now, thank you!

[SkweeksMom]

The morning started good. Chakra was snuggled into her blankies and sleeping soundly. I was so happy that she settled in, made herself a nest and was peaceful. Later when she woke up, she started making soft crying sounds. I didn't know what to do to comfort her so I turned off the light and went to get her water. When I came back she had come to the bars and I could see mucus on her scabbed over nostril. She didn't want to take water or FV from the syringe. I kept up with the water and she was swallowing it but not really drinking it. After about 3 cc's I tried the FV again and that she started taking happily. She ate about 4 ccs of FV, then some banana. She is really seeming to struggle with her breathing.

I was able to watch her teeth some when she was eating and they are more aligned than I had first thought. On of the bottom ones is broken off a little. Her top lip appears split but scabbed and I am wondering if that is contributing to her teeth looking off. She was calmer today and more trusting. We are getting ready to leave for the rehabber. Please, positive energy, prayers as much as possible.

[Nancy in New York]

The morning started good. Chakra was snuggled into her blankies and sleeping soundly. I was so happy that she settled in, made herself a nest and was peaceful. Later when she woke up, she started making soft crying sounds. I didn't know what to do to comfort her so I turned off the light and went to get her water. When I came back she had come to the bars and I could see mucus on her scabbed over nostril. She didn't want to take water or FV from the syringe. I kept up with the water and she was swallowing it but not really drinking it. After about 3 cc's I tried the FV again and that she started taking happily. She ate about 4 ccs of FV, then some banana. She is really seeming to struggle with her breathing.

I was able to watch her teeth some when she was eating and they are more aligned than I had first thought. On of the bottom ones is broken off a little. Her top lip appears split but scabbed and I am wondering if that is contributing to her teeth looking off. She was calmer today and more trusting. We are getting ready to leave for the rehabber. Please, positive energy, prayers as much as possible.


Keep us posted......I am saying prayers for a good report.
:Love_Icon :grouphug :Love_Icon

[SammysMom]

:grouphug Chakra:grouphug

[Jackie in Tampa]

:grouphug :thankyou

[Badmojo420]

The morning started good. Chakra was snuggled into her blankies and sleeping soundly. I was so happy that she settled in, made herself a nest and was peaceful. Later when she woke up, she started making soft crying sounds. I didn't know what to do to comfort her so I turned off the light and went to get her water. When I came back she had come to the bars and I could see mucus on her scabbed over nostril. She didn't want to take water or FV from the syringe. I kept up with the water and she was swallowing it but not really drinking it. After about 3 cc's I tried the FV again and that she started taking happily. She ate about 4 ccs of FV, then some banana. She is really seeming to struggle with her breathing.

I was able to watch her teeth some when she was eating and they are more aligned than I had first thought. On of the bottom ones is broken off a little. Her top lip appears split but scabbed and I am wondering if that is contributing to her teeth looking off. She was calmer today and more trusting. We are getting ready to leave for the rehabber. Please, positive energy, prayers as much as possible.

sending some squirrel love and prayers. thank you again to everyone who has given me their input and suggestions. Chakra and I both appreciate it and we cant express gratitude enough.

[SkweeksMom]

Chakra is brave and strong and she is going to have a wonderful life as a free and wild squirrel at the most amazing wildlife center I have ever seen.

The drive there was awful! Chakra was so scared and I felt so helpless. Once there she calmed right down. Gail was amazed at how strong she was and had to have her husband get her out of the cage. They got her wrapped in a blanket and were able to look at her eye and teeth. She felt that the teeth would grow back in fine. She gave her some infant nose spray to help her breath better and to start working on the scab and a dose of metacam. She is going to keep watch the eye closely and may start her on antibiotics. She was getting ready to put Chakra in one of her cages and I told her I wanted to take her home and care for her so she could be released. She told me I could if I wanted but that she was glad to take her and that as soon as she was comfortable with her eye and teeth that she would do a soft release from one of her outdoor pens. She has 50 nest boxes around her home and feeds all winter. She said it was much safer for her there since she would have a home and food all winter. I agreed that this sounded like the best think for Chakra so I let her stay.

After all of that she introduced my hubby and I to her little angel, Tuck. He is a downs baby and the most beautiful, amazing little creature I have ever seen in my life. We talked about a lot of people that she knows and that I know from TSB. Amazing what a small world it is. She doesn't have internet but if she did she would fit right in.

She asked me why I don't have a license and I told her that we don't have rehabbers in WV. That is why I come to her. I have no way to get medical care or medicine for the babies I want so much to help. She sent me home with Batryl, a list of books I need to order and read, her phone number and a list of items that I should have on hand at all times. She said she will teach me what she can, to call if I have questions or need help and she said she will call me to help her with babies if she gets over loaded. He hubby also showed my hubby all his release cages and how they are built. Guess what we are doing this winter????? :D

Thank you all so much, for all your help and prayers and support. I'm glad I was called in on this one. I have learned a lot and gained a tiny bit of confidence in myself. I have also reconnected with all the wonderful people here. :thankyou :thankyou :thankyou :Love_Icon :Love_Icon :Love_Icon

[Badmojo420]

Thank you for the update. I am glad she is on meds now. I will miss her dearly but I am also happy she will have a place to live free and be fed throughout the winter. Can you forward me a list of those books and supplies? Even if I never take in another squirrel or other wild animal that needs help Id at least like to have the info on hand...

[SammysMom]

Fabulous story of love and hope. Thank you everyone who played a part in helping this little squirrel. :grouphug

[Nancy in New York]

Chakra is brave and strong and she is going to have a wonderful life as a free and wild squirrel at the most amazing wildlife center I have ever seen.

The drive there was awful! Chakra was so scared and I felt so helpless. Once there she calmed right down. Gail was amazed at how strong she was and had to have her husband get her out of the cage. They got her wrapped in a blanket and were able to look at her eye and teeth. She felt that the teeth would grow back in fine. She gave her some infant nose spray to help her breath better and to start working on the scab and a dose of metacam. She is going to keep watch the eye closely and may start her on antibiotics. She was getting ready to put Chakra in one of her cages and I told her I wanted to take her home and care for her so she could be released. She told me I could if I wanted but that she was glad to take her and that as soon as she was comfortable with her eye and teeth that she would do a soft release from one of her outdoor pens. She has 50 nest boxes around her home and feeds all winter. She said it was much safer for her there since she would have a home and food all winter. I agreed that this sounded like the best think for Chakra so I let her stay.

After all of that she introduced my hubby and I to her little angel, Tuck. He is a downs baby and the most beautiful, amazing little creature I have ever seen in my life. We talked about a lot of people that she knows and that I know from TSB. Amazing what a small world it is. She doesn't have internet but if she did she would fit right in.

She asked me why I don't have a license and I told her that we don't have rehabbers in WV. That is why I come to her. I have no way to get medical care or medicine for the babies I want so much to help. She sent me home with Batryl, a list of books I need to order and read, her phone number and a list of items that I should have on hand at all times. She said she will teach me what she can, to call if I have questions or need help and she said she will call me to help her with babies if she gets over loaded. He hubby also showed my hubby all his release cages and how they are built. Guess what we are doing this winter????? :D

Thank you all so much, for all your help and prayers and support. I'm glad I was called in on this one. I have learned a lot and gained a tiny bit of confidence in myself. I have also reconnected with all the wonderful people here. :thankyou :thankyou :thankyou :Love_Icon :Love_Icon :Love_Icon

I love this thread.
I love that a little squirrel was found, and cared for, by a person who loved her enough to find help after she was hit and relinquish her....for her welfare.
SweeksMom and hubby for giving up your weekend, first to get this little one, and take her home......and then to find help from an experienced rehabber of many squirrels, and take her there today.
All this while the storm of the century is all around you.
And to your friend who graciously opened her home and her heart and took this little one and is giving her the best possible chance for a happy life in the trees.
For all the lives, hands and hearts that touched this little one, thank you!!!!!!
See, it takes a village to care for/raise a squirrel....:Love_Icon :Love_Icon

[skippy]

:) Badmojo, you need to change your name to Awesomemojo.

You listened to your heart and took her in when most would have left her to die. You were willing to give up the last of your funds to do what was needed for her to heal the best with what you could provide, you researched, asked questions and implemented the information you were given here on TSB for temporary care and when you thought she may be okay to release, you still trusted what we shared and followed through by getting Chakra to a rehabber who continued to take Chakra on her journey of healing.
Thank you so much for keeping an open heart and mind through this process.:Love_Icon
Many rescuers have missed such a beautiful experience because they couldn't let go and trust the process and the squirrels in their care suffered.
:thankyou :thankyou :thankyou

[Badmojo420]

:) Badmojo, you need to change your name to Awesomemojo.

You listened to your heart and took her in when most would have left her to die. You were willing to give up the last of your funds to do what was needed for her to heal the best with what you could provide, you researched, asked questions and implemented the information you were given here on TSB for temporary care and when you thought she may be okay to release, you still trusted what we shared and followed through by getting Chakra to a rehabber who continued to take Chakra on her journey of healing.
Thank you so much for keeping an open heart and mind through this process.:Love_Icon
Many rescuers have missed such a beautiful experience because they couldn't let go and trust the process and the squirrels in their care suffered.
:thankyou :thankyou :thankyou

It was tough to let go. I would have loved so much to keep Chakra and care for her but I know that wouldnt be fair to her. She never asked me to help her after all! I also know she is in a wonderful place and that makes me feel a lot better too. I feel a little bad that she cant be with her squirrel family anymore but they will be just fine im sure. I still have a huge bag of squirrel food from the store im gonna toss out for her family and any other animals that might need some food over the winter. I feel its the least i could do:peace

[Kelly Brady]

Skippy could not have said it better. Mojo you are awesome:bowdown

Chakra will have a wonderful life. Thanks so much skweeks Mom. you both are amazing.

I love this story:grouphug

[Squirrelis]

:Love_Icon beautiful story:Love_Icon wish everyone loved squirrels like TSB peeps do:Love_Icon bless you all:Love_Icon

[skippy]

It was tough to let go. I would have loved so much to keep Chakra and care for her but I know that wouldnt be fair to her. She never asked me to help her after all! I also know she is in a wonderful place and that makes me feel a lot better too. :peace

"She never asked me to help her after all!"
Hmmm....
There are no coincidences. I believe it was all orchestrated by something more powerful than all of us; you played your part well. Life gets to live on through Chakra. Now you know where to turn to when the next one needs help and finds it's way to you, even if it's just for an overnight stay.
Lots of gratitude for everyone who is caring for her now. It will be nice to follow her on her journey to release.
:Love_Icon

[SkweeksMom]

I just got off the phone with the lady that has Chakra. She is doing well but there is still an issue with her bottom teeth. She will eat soft food and nibble at nuts. He is eating a slurry of baby food veggies with hazelnut or almond paste with some soft fruit as a treat. She is off meds and there doesn't appear to be any ongoing nuro issues to speak of. I will be going to see her this weekend and with the extra hands we will try to get her wrapped up and get a good look at those teefers. I will take a camera and see if I can't get some pictures.

[skippy]

Looking forward to that update and photos. :)

[island rehabber]

Thanks to a nasty rude storm named Sandy, I missed this entire thread last week, but what a joy to discover it now! It's already been said better than I could ---- but to me, this was like a small chamber orchestra of caring people, perfectly playing in harmony so that a little furry one could get help! Beautiful beautiful story.....Chakra is well named. All kinds of good energies will flow from her story, for all the people who touched her life.

[Kelly Brady]

Thanks so much for the update skweeksmom.

I have thought of Chakra many times. I can't wait to see how those teeth look.

Thinking of you too badmojo. Wonderful angels that have helped Chakra

[SkweeksMom]

I got to spend the afternoon with the rehabber that has Chakra. The good news the swelling has gone down around the eye and there doesn't appear to be any neuro issues. The bad news is her teeth are in bad shape and only part of it appears to be from her heard trauma. The bottom are growing apart with a large 5 mm or so gap between them at the points. She has been trimming they to see if they get better. The top right looks like an overgrown dew claw on a small dog. It is very thick and curling back into her mouth. The top right seems pretty normal. The rehabber says she has never encountered anything like it and it appears to be something that has been going on for a long time. She trimmed the top as well but Chakra won't eat solid food. She is being fed a slurry of almond butter, fruit or veggie baby food and FV. I saw on of the pecans she tried to eat and it was just kind of picked at.

The rehabber is very worried. She is going to keep her teeth trimmed and see how they grow. She is hopeful after some time they will start to grow more normal.

Here is a picture. She wasn't happy at being wrapped up and have her teeth looked and poked at so, it's not very good.

[Chickenlegs]

Doncha just love a happy ending :Love_Icon :Love_Icon :Love_Icon

[Badmojo420]

Thank you for the update, please keep them coming at your convenience :thankyou i hope her teeth get situated. i wonder if she might have been struck by a car once before or some other type of injury.

[PennyCash]

Thanks for the update.... Hoping everything improves... I'm glad the rehabber is trying so hard to help this poor baby. :grouphug :Love_Icon :grouphug