Advice Please

[aprilk1815]

Hi,

My name is April. I am in need of some advice on my recent rescue. About a week ago my husband told me about a wild baby squirrel that came into our garage. He tried to feed it because he said it seemed hungry. I say tried because instead of eating, it got all excited and spread the seed everywhere. So on Monday i was leaving my house and spotted this squirrel. I was surprised that like my husband said it wasn't scared of him. I walked past it, maybe two feet from me and the squirrel didn't move. Long story short... I have a big outdoor cage. I stuck him in there. There are logs, climbing posts, and hiding spots. This squirrel from what I've read is about 7 or so weeks old. I live in a busy city so my guess is that it was either rejected or the mother died. He prefers to be bottle fed, i bought puppy replacer milk. The way he eats is like a baby squirrel, he curls his paws around food like it was a nipple. I have soaked cereals, grains, and mashed up fruits and vegetables for him. I try to see what he can and cannot eat. He is also blind in one eye. He doesn't get around so gracefully. I need some advice on how to care for him. I have rescued baby squirrels before but they were older and only needed to be placed somewhere out of the city. I have had my share of wildlife rescues but this guy I'm worried about. There is a rescue i would like to bring him to. That i love and trust and would have a habitat for him that he could have a forever safe home. The only issue is I dont know when i will be making that trip. My father is very ill and i am taking care of him and have a newborn son. So in the meantime i want to make sure i am doing what i can for him. So please, any advice would be great. Also, when would he be eating nuts. He only likes soft foods. I tried giving him natural peanut butter also and he wanted nothing to do with it. Thank you!

[sid'smommy]

Can you post some pictures ? It would help in determining age so that we can help with diet issues. Also, puppy milk is not good for them..I can ship you some formula powder, at least until you can get him placed. Where are you at in Michigan ? You might be close enough that I can help you with transport if need be....

[island rehabber]

hi April:

Bless you for saving this little one and welcome to The Squirrel Board!
You've done all good things for him so far. What kind of puppy milk is he on? Although we no longer recommend Esbilac for baby squirrels, if he's been getting that and has done ok on it then no sense switching him now.

We have a Nutrition Forum that contains lists of most healthy foods and then foods to avoid -- take it with you to the grocery store :D. He needs high-calcium green leafy veggies, and needs to avoid the high-phosphorous foods such as corn, sunflower seeds and most nuts.

If you would like us to try to make some contacts for you with rehabbers in MI, let me know. There are a few very trusted, excellent rehabbers out there but we'll need to know what part of the state you're in. You can send me a Private Message if you don't want to disclose your location publicly.

I'm going to bed in a few minutes but will hang out here until you have a chance to respond. :)

[aprilk1815]

I am in the Metro Detroit area. The place I love and trust is the Arc up north in St. Helen. They are awesome there. I am using the Esbilac. I have tried syringing and bottle feeding water and he refuses. I can upload a few pictures of him tomorrow. I was reading again of how old he could be and maybe he is older. I just don't think he got the care he needed. He seems really content as of now. I try my best not to touch him. He's so fluffy so it makes it hard. He's adorable. I just want what's best for him. My four year old wants to keep him. I would too but we live in the city... I read the other formulas to try and i will try something else. He doesn't care for Esbilac but tolerates it. Thank you for your responses!

[aprilk1815]

I have lots of random pet foods here, just not formulas. We have a cockatoo, bearded dragon, I've had bunnies, and a ferret and dogs and cats....

I even had goats milk in the fridge but just ran out.

[farrelli]

You can touch him. He'll probably take comfort in it. I'll write more in a sec about the formula you should use for now.

[aprilk1815]

Okay thanks, and whew, because i rub his ears sometimes and he seems to like that but then i tell myself not to because i dont want to ruin any chance of him being released. I don't think he could be because of his eye but i still didn't want to ruin anything for him. I will be feeding my son and going to bed shortly so if i dont respond that is why. Thank you again for all of your help.

[farrelli]

This first link will help you determine age with pics:

http://www.squirrelsandmore.com/how-to-determine-the-age-of-a-baby-squirrel?___store=default

This second link will show you how to make temporary formula. The puppy and kitten stuff can cause problems. You will have to order Fox Valley if we can't find a rehaber for you, but for now this is what you'll need:

http://thesquirrelboard.com/forums/showthread.php?t=29903

This link is for proper feeding technique, which is super important because they can easily aspirate, get pneumonia, and die. If you ever hear clicking when he breaths (listen closely), we will need to know immediately:

http://thesquirrelboard.com/forums/showthread.php?t=36777

And here is a link to basic care. He probably needs a heating pad set on low placed under his container so that he can't chew it. Put it half under so that he can crawl off if he's too hot. Young squirrels can't regulate their temp well:

http://thesquirrelboard.com/forums/showthread.php?t=21626

[aprilk1815]

He definitely looks like he is 8-10 weeks.

[farrelli]

Last thing. Before you feed him, it's important to know that he's hydrated because when dehydrated they won't process their food well, which can cause issues. Gently pinch the skin between his shoulders and see if it tents or goes back down right away, like on the back of your hand. If it's slow to go down, he needs to be hydrated with some sugar water made by mixing 3 Tbsp sugar (tablespoon) with 1 quart warm water.

Oh, and if you don't have it already, you'll need some 1cc syringes (without needles), which you can get at most pharmacies, usually for free if you ask the pharmacist.

[aprilk1815]

He climbs but is very clumsy (i blame the eye). I have boxes filled with paper and bedding so he stays warm at night and a towel. He does well with the syringe and bottle. I haven't seen his teeth. I didn't know if i should hold him and do it. He let me pick him up to get him in the cage but otherwise i haven't touched him much.

[farrelli]

Btw, welcome and thanks for looking out for this guy. Love on him all you want. It'll be good for him, and if he is unreleasable, getting socialized now will prove invaluable later. And if he gets released, it won't hurt his chances for reasons which will be explained later if you want.

[aprilk1815]

When i feed him next i will do the pinch test.

[aprilk1815]

Thank you soooooo much for all of your help!!! I will definitely make formula for him. I can't wait to go in and pet him. My son will be overly excited. Again thank you!

[farrelli]

Two points, don't bottle feed. Use syringes and follow the feeding technique shown in the video I linked to. Also, towels can be bad because the loops can snag their toes and cause injury. We much prefer fleece or t-shirt material.

Oh, and if you don;t have a heating pad, put some rice in a sock, tie it off, nuke it until warm, squish it around to avoid hot spots, and put it in for him to cuddle with.

[aprilk1815]

I will definitely do the rice heating pad. Thanks for the towel info. I will get a tshirt in there. I will use only the syringe and i will check out the video. Thank you :)

[farrelli]

To be clear, do the pinch test before feeding. He needs hydration before food.

Also, kids and squirrels can be a bad mix, for the squirrel. Tell your son to be very careful, especially where he steps. There have been a number of squirrels who've lost their tails and worse by a misstep.

Oh, and goat's milk can be gotten at most grocery stores, even Walmart. If you can't find fresh, it's often canned next to the condensed milk.

[aprilk1815]

Thank you for your help. I can't wait to start over tomorrow with him and see how it goes.

[Unikorngrrl]

:wave123 and :Welcome to TSB!! Sorry I'm just getting home!! farrelli is excellent, and so is Island Rehabber. They've definitely got you on the right track!! I'll be looking in on you!! :thumbsup

[BamaHam]

Thanks for rescuing baby. He sounds as he should not be released (NR) since he's blind in one eye. Try to find a rehabber who is willing to keep him and not put him down. If you have young children I don't recommend you try to keep him. They need a lot of attention on a daily basis. The more he is held and handled the more he'll get use to people. He'll need this since he's a baby and possibly NR. My Hammy was only handled and interacted with by me and my 2 daughters therefore he doesn't like my husband and he attacked him several times. We 3 are the only ones who can handle him. They chew everything, climb on everything, tear and pick fabrics with teeth and claws, knock things over and break things when they jump, they are very curious and get into mischief, and use the bathroom whenever and wherever. Its a commitment to keep one of these amazing creatures. They are smart and witty. I've never regret keeping him since he's non-releasable. I love him and he's been good for me. He'll be 3 years old July 4. Good luck with him and thank you again for coming to TSB. We'll help however possible.:Love_Icon

[aprilk1815]

From all the things I've read about squirrels reminds me of my ferret. I love caged pets. I love the pets just not the cages. Every caged pet I've had has either had a room of its own or play zone, or outdoor fun zone. I think having him as a pet would be fun but yes busy and with having two younger kids and other pets i want whats best for him. If it came down to us keeping him for any reason i would most definitely make it work. I have a giant ferret cage. He lived till he was 8. He had two most common illnesses ferrets get and he still pushed through as long as possible. I have an outdoor cage that was built. My son and i sit in there with the baby squirrel to feed him. I will talk to the rescue i like and see if they would keep him or what they think about him being blind in one eye. I will post some pictures tomorrow. Thank you all again for advice, ideas, and help. I appreciate it. :)

[Sweet Simon's Mommy]

HI April:wave123
and welcome

I want to just mention if your new baby had been deemed non-releasable
You will want to handle and play with him as much as possible and not let him see or hear any part of the "Great outdoors".
I learned this with my little Simon.
It dose not guarantee he won't wild up, but it will help.
Any wild animal who is in captivity can wild up at some point, some calm back down, some don't and some don't wild up, they are all different.
Good luck with your new baby, they are awesome.

[aprilk1815]

A few that worked that would upload.

[aprilk1815]

holy moly sorry so big. I will resize and add more.

[farrelli]

Very cute. I see his cloudy eye. Sometimes, just sometimes, cloudy eyes can clear up with a good diet, especially when they're so young. Have you picked up the goat's milk and ordered the Fox Valley? Has he tried it yet? As you will find out here, nutrition is job 1, 2, and 3 when it comes to raising a happy, healthy squirrel.

[aprilk1815]

hoping these are better

[aprilk1815]

I made him a heating pad. He likes it. I put stuffing in the cage to add warmth and he has been building it into a nest. He definitely likes the sugar water. He is a bit dehydrated. He was climbing around when i went in and checked on him. I did call the Ark up north for advice and if they would take him. They said they would take him. They also made me feel bad for having him. I was looking into getting a rehabilitators license. I don't want to get into trouble for having him but at the same time i couldn't just let him go and wish him the best. I feel like I'm at a loss right now. I don't know if i should bring him in or leave him out in the cage. I just don't know what to do at this point besides still care for him and get him up there. I will be going to the store shortly to get him some stuff. :/

[aprilk1815]

We are about to leave the house to get the goats milk. So as soon i try that i will give an update.

[aprilk1815]

I am happy to hear that he may have a chance with his eye! So thank you!

[farrelli]

What do you mean about bringing him in or leaving him out? Is he outside? Bring him in! Bring him in! Screw the arc! I can see why they might object because many people are idiots and won't care for an animal properly, but as long as you feed him right and get the advice of people here, he'll be fine. We at TSB have tons of rehabers and even more tons of just regular people like you who keep squirrels as pets (usually unreleasables). Keeping a squirrel without a license is illegal in most states, but most of the people here just live covertly.

Do not surrender him to the center unless you know for FACT that they won't just put him down. Many rehab centers do for any reason, even if they're just full. The fact that this guy is blind in one eye makes him a perfect candidate for euthanasia.

[farrelli]

If you want to keep him, as you've been told, it's a big commitment. He'll need special blocks which will cost you $20 a month, plus a wide variety of veggies, plus a big cage, and you'll have to give him tons of out of cage time (most people let them have full run when they're home), and you will occasionally get bitten, but I can't really think of one person here who would change things. Squirrels are awesome! Especially when you raise them from babies and they get really bonded.

[Unikorngrrl]

farrelli is giving you great advice. Get him inside, even if you can release him later he will more than likely wild up just fine. They can teach you soft release. Also, we have rehabbers and other experienced people all over the place that would probably take him if you don't feel like you can or should keep him. Don't willie nillie take him ANYWHERE that you aren't POSITIVE won't put him down. We have tons of people on TSB that have happy and healthy squirrels that cannot be released due to a wide variety of disabilities!! We will FIND someone to take him!! :thankyou for saving him!! They need love and affection. Handle him all you can!! If you get the formula ordered, the TEMPORARY goat's milk formula now, and the Henry's Blocks you will be well on your way to taking GREAT care of him!!! :thumbsup

[kastillo]

Be careful taking him to a wildlife santuary with his eye like that. If he is deemed unreleasable, they may euthanize him.

You have all the best information right here to raise him right.

Bring him in and put him in the ferret cage for now.

Chicken wire is not best, they can get limbs, head, etc. stuck in it and chew through it since it is weak wire.

Let us know how it goes with the goats milk.

[farrelli]

I'm worried. She went out to the store to get GM and then never came back here. As soon as I heard that he was being kept outside, I was very worried about escape. :(

[aprilk1815]

The goats milk was a success. Today was a very hectic day with my kids and my dad. The squirrel has not escaped nor tried. He even opened sunflower seeds today. I was sitting in the cage and he was chewing on my sleeve. After i fed him he chattered his teeth at me... I hope thats not a bad thing. He was much more active today. He was building a nest in the cage, dragging things around the cage. I did notice today he had a few fleas. So before i bring him in i want to flea treat him. I have other pets that i do not want fleas to get to. I will get my cage and flea powder going tomorrow. I was petting him a lot today and otherwise he seemed very content with me petting him. I have read the posts from today and don't know if i gave answers to everything but overall he seems very happy. I did spill some milk on the logs in there and he was licking it off. So I think i might try a different type of dish for him to drink out of. I want to thank everyone for their input and advice. It has helped out a lot. I want to say i will keep him. I will bring him in and see how it goes and yes i will make sure before i bring him anywhere it is a trusted source. If anything happens in the meantime where i think he needs to be placed otherwise i would probably trust TSB and who you guys would recommend. I still dont know when I'd be going up north either way. Like i mentioned, my dad is very ill. He lives with me. He's only in his 50's and has stage four cancer. He has been in the hospital for two weeks. We spoke of hospice. Things are very stressful and depressing at this time. The squirrel takes my mind off of things. My dad is a wildlife man as well. He lives up north and see all kinds of wildlife and has rescued things as well. I think the squirrel being in his room might give him some joy. His room btw is my living room, which has a door to it. I will come on to update and to ask more questions I'm sure. I just might not be able to respond so quick with everything going on. Also, my son is three months old and I haven't been able to return back to work give my dads circumstances to money is really tight. I'm not asking for pity or sympathy in any way. I guess its one of those nights I'm putting my life out there in hopes I'm understood. So i will try my best with this little guy. I'm excited to take this adventure. I miss my ferret. So in a way he makes up for it. :)

[SammysMom]

We are here for you as well as the squirrel. My sammy is still helping me cope with the loss of a parent. Prayers for strength for you, your dad and your family. 50s is way too young...:grouphug

[farrelli]

Haven't read the whole thing, but flea powder might be too much for a baby. We generally recommend wiping them down with a solution of Dawn dish detergent (the blue kind). It does a great job for most cases. I cna't wait until he's inside!

[farrelli]

SM, I can't see if you're here anymore, but what do you think of flea powder on a baby?

[aprilk1815]

Thank you about my dad and i can try dawn. I buy that soap. I am hoping that as long as everything goes smoothly he will be inside tomorrow :)

[farrelli]

Sorry to hear about your dad. I hope this little guy proves to be a great and happy distraction for your whole family during all this. I mostly work at a cancer hospital and it really does help to have such a happy little thing in your life at times like this. That being said, I hope you decide on if you want to keep him quickly. Squirrels aren't good at bonding with new people when they get past the baby stage, so if he goes elsewhere later, he'll have a harder time and may never fully bond with his new family.

I'm glad the FV is a hit. Have you weighed him? You should be feeding 5-7% of body weight, perhaps a little more. Also, because it doesn't last long in the fridge, you can freeze it, many people mix it up and pour it into an ice cube tray and then take them out as needed. It'll save you $.

Edit: sorry, I meant GM is a hit. You haven't ordered FV yet.

[Shewhosweptforest]

:wave123 Aprilk1815:Love_Icon :thankyou for looking after this baby:grouphug hope everything is going good still....don't you love how much everyone cares here:grouphug Thank you for caring so much also:thumbsup

[SammysMom]

Dawn works! Good overall health does too. You'll get him there!!!

[Nancy in New York]

Skimming fast. A squirrel chattering their teeth is bad. So are sunflowers seeds. We need to talk diet, and other things concerning this squirrel. Do you have other pets, and children? I think I read that you do have kids. They need to be kept away from both animals and kids.
Will post more tomorrow, after I read up on this one more. Have squirrels to feed and one that needs TLC nightly.:D

[SammysMom]

I will mail hhb tomorrow!

[farrelli]

Yes, SF seeds are bad, but chattering isn't always. It can mean that they're mad and it can mean, "pay attention to me". I just didn't want you to get nervous after Nancy's post. When I first had a squirrel running all over me I heard the chattering and thought that it was bad and I was about to get bitten, but then his dad told me that it just meant that he wanted attention. I've since read many posts about squirrels chattering to their parents when they want out of their cage, or to get pet, or just want to be looked at.

But as to diet, really, really, like I've said, he should be mostly on formula right now, and technically, the only solid foods he should get are called rodent blocks. The reason for this is that if they get hooked on junkfood now, you'll have a very hard time getting them to eat their blocks later. And again, the MOST important thing in raising a squirrel is proper nutrition. Oh heartbreaking the problems that a bad diet will cause! So, right now you should be ordering formula and getting some rodent blocks.

[aprilk1815]

I do love how much people here care and how helpful you all have been. I will keep him, the only way that i wouldn't is if for some reason it was going seriously wrong. I will always need advice or tips I'm sure so i will be around. How old from the pictures do you believe he is?

[SammysMom]

I will send some with the blocks!

[farrelli]

You're too generous SM!

[aprilk1815]

I will have to listen for the times he does it so i can understand what he wants or is meaning by it. I continued petting him and he didn't care. So i guess thats a plus :) I understand about nutrition. I will go through everything in his cage and make sure its for his age. I do have kale, banana, grapes, prunes, carrots, all chopped or mashed in there as well. SM is sending the blocks (thank you again!) I will try dawn, and i have the formula.

[farrelli]

I'd guess 9 weeks. SM?

[farrelli]

Btw, is your dad from the UP? I'm originally from the Monroe area. I'm currently looking to move to Canada, but if that fails, I'm thinking of the UP. Maybe Marquette.

[Nancy in New York]

farrelli you may be right, but every time I have had a squirrel actually CHATTER, AND NOT PURR....it's NOT been good.:shakehead

[aprilk1815]

My dad lives in Lake City. Near Cadillac and Houghton Lake. My mom has a place in Houghton Lake. My friend lives in Marquette and LOVES it! Very prety there.

[farrelli]

farrelli you may be right, but every time I have had a squirrel actually CHATTER, AND NOT PURR....it's NOT been good.:shakehead

Bobby's little girl also chatters when she wants lovin.

[Nancy in New York]

Bobby's little girl also chatters when she wants lovin.

No she purrs.....:tilt
Fluffer chatters when Rich is near him.:nono
Fluffer purrs for me.:)

[farrelli]

I remember specifically that she chatters. And Rocky's little NR chatters too. I thought he was going to bite my ear off, but it was apparently because he was on my back and I wasn't paying attention to him. I was too nervous.

[farrelli]

Oh, and one more thing to know. Once he's inside, take every precaution that he not be able to get outside again. This is hard to do with kids who open doors and leave them open, or open them without checking well. Perhaps keep him in a bedroom, or not let him out until times when no one is coming or going, or use a double door system, etc. Escapes into nature for indoor squirrels, especially partially blind squirrels will lead to a very sad death.

[farrelli]

Oh, and you will have to squirrel-proof the rooms he's in so that he can't chew power cords and such.

[Monipenny]

If kept in the bathroom keep the toilet seat down to prevent drowning, squirrels can not get out of a toilet if one goes in.

[BamaHam]

So sorry about your dad. :grouphug My dad passed suddenly and unexpected. He would always ask me how my squirrel was and I would tell him he needed to come over and see him and play with him. He never did because he was always busy running our restaurant but would say he would one day. When my daddy passed, Hammy was my salvation. I sank in depression and he gave me life again. I was already going into depression before daddy passed but that made it worse. Rescuing squirrels has given me self worth in a sense. I found something that rescued me. I love wild life.....even snakes fascinate me. Go figure! Another thing I want to mention was your baby's eye could be just a scratch healing. I think that could cause cloudiness as well. A vet could determine that better. Maybe some meds would help. He looks adorable in the pictures....of course all babies are.:Love_Icon

[farrelli]

Oh, and when you wipe him down with the dilute Dawn solution, go from heard to toe. You don't want them all seeking refuge on his little face!

[farrelli]

Oh, and I just realized something else, you mentioned other pets. Cat saliva is easily deadly to squirrels, so if you have one, you must make sure they don't meet if there is any animosity of any kind. And if he might get nipped in any way, even just maybe, antibiotics will be necessary, immediately.

[aprilk1815]

I will do the dawn today. I just fed him and he is active. He is so clumsy but climbing everywhere. After i fed him and pet him he clicked at me... He even bucked up under my hand. So I'm assuming he doesn't like to be pet after eating or playing...? What does it mean when he debarks the tree and chews/eats it? I do have other pets. I have three cats, three dogs. My dogs see him daily and are interested but not trying to get him. If he were loose then might would be a problem. Two of my cats wouldn't care. One would. He unfortunately was brought up as a hunting cat. I wouldn't let the two get near each other but i guess I'm weighing out all factors before claiming him. I would love to keep him. I think he would be a great addition to our family. I dont know if he likes me all the time. I have heard the cat saliva thing. Thats why when my husband told me about this squirrel i made sure my cat was on lock down. He will be lightning fast and get out the door. Then he comes homes that night or in the morning. And usually has a rat for me at the door :( Today will be a busy day so i wont be on until later. Do captive squirrels drink out of the water bottle? How long do they live for? My ferret lived till 8 1/2. I have places he could get out and play out of his cage. My fear is if he will be happy. Or if he bonds with me. I have started petting him more and either way we talk to him all day. If i think of any other questions i will post. Thank you.

[Nancy in New York]

I will do the dawn today. I just fed him and he is active. He is so clumsy but climbing everywhere. After i fed him and pet him he clicked at me... He even bucked up under my hand. So I'm assuming he doesn't like to be pet after eating or playing...? What does it mean when he debarks the tree and chews/eats it? I do have other pets. I have three cats, three dogs. My dogs see him daily and are interested but not trying to get him. If he were loose then might would be a problem. Two of my cats wouldn't care. One would. He unfortunately was brought up as a hunting cat. I wouldn't let the two get near each other but i guess I'm weighing out all factors before claiming him. I would love to keep him. I think he would be a great addition to our family. I dont know if he likes me all the time. I have heard the cat saliva thing. Thats why when my husband told me about this squirrel i made sure my cat was on lock down. He will be lightning fast and get out the door. Then he comes homes that night or in the morning. And usually has a rat for me at the door :( Today will be a busy day so i wont be on until later. Do captive squirrels drink out of the water bottle? How long do they live for? My ferret lived till 8 1/2. I have places he could get out and play out of his cage. My fear is if he will be happy. Or if he bonds with me. I have started petting him more and either way we talk to him all day. If i think of any other questions i will post. Thank you.

Please do NOT even let him see other animals. When he is outside he will have NO fear. Cat saliva is deadly to squirrels.....this is NOT a good situation for a squirrel to be in. Just one little mistake, and people have made them with squirrels all over the board........and your little squirrel will be a goner. Perhaps he needs to be rehomed for his own safety.

Read the comments about teeth chattering.


http://thesquirrelboard.com/forums/showthread.php?t=11952&highlight=chattering

[farrelli]

It seems that the minimum lifespan is eight years, the absolute maximum is 20. If well cared for, he'll live somewhere between those ages.

Some will drink out of a water bottle but you may have to show him how it works a few times. If it's in his cage, don't use plastic because he'll just chew it up. Get glass or metal. If it's on the outside, it really doesn't matter. Many people suggest getting two if it's the ball bearing kind in case the ball gets stuck in one, he'll have an alternative.

Yes, not letting him see the pets for now might be best, but that's only because there's apparently still a question if he's releasable. To me, with the blindness and clumsiness, it sounds like he's unreleasable, but you should be able to determine that pretty quickly. At that point, you'll have to be very careful about integrating him into the family.

Many/most squirrels don't like to be touched while eating or shortly after. And if he has anything stashed, they can be very protective of it. Besides, you're just some scary lady right now. You haven't fully become his mommy yet. It takes time to bond. But even when bonded, they are still wild animals and will have occasional bouts where they're unpredictable and don't seem to like anyone. This is particularly true once or twice a year during mating season.

Please keep asking questions! There's really a ton to know.

[farrelli]

Btw, if you keep him, not only will he need a big cage, it'll need furnishings and toys. Here's a website by one of our members who makes stuff. Squirrels really seem to LOVE the hammocks and hanging cubes (which they usually sleep in).

http://www.auntiemmscustomboutique.com/product-gallery.html

Also, I didn't really understand your question about chewing the tree? Is that right? In any event, squirrels chew everything. People usually put branches, cuttle bones, and antlers in with them to chew. Squirrel teeth grow for their entire lifetime, about six inches a year, and they need to chew to keep them filed down. If they don't, those teeth will grow up into their skull and kill them. Dental care is a big issue.

[farrelli]

Any updates? I see that you've been here a few times. Is he inside now? How is he acting? How is he eating and drinking?

[aprilk1815]

He eats a drinks good. He has been very active today. I hand wrestled with him. He has been stretching and laying out and hanging upside down. I cut up apples, celery, grapes, carrots, kale, and fed him syringe wise. He is not inside. Because of the issue of him seeing my pets it would be best if he wasn't inside. He sees less pets being outside. I put up a water bottle in his cage to drink out of and he has. His eye looks less cloudy. I'm hoping that possibly in the end he will become releasable. He is still clumsy but doing well. I would love to keep him but given all sides of keeping him it is best that i don't. :( It breaks my heart that we will not be keeping him but it's for his best. He also only does click when he is eating. He still hasn't tried to escape in any way. Hasn't chewed on the cage. He seems pretty content. I will hopefully leave the house tomorrow to get the blocks for him. If he does regain his eyesight and gets around easier, i may release him to my safe place. Otherwise i would need to find him a home. Is it normal that he chews the bark off the treats and chews on it? Does it mean anything, like lack of any kind of nutrient or is that normal behavior?

[farrelli]

I would think it best that another home be found for him then. I think that keeping this guy in in outdoor pen is unacceptable. My feeling is that he is unreleasable and I would prefer that he find his forever home now, because like I said, the older he is the harder it is to bond.

Where are you again? Hopefully we can find another home for him.

[farrelli]

Oh and as to the clicking, please describe it. Please make absolutely sure that he's not clicking when he breathes. Hold him up to your ear and listen closely. It is very important that he not be clicking when he breathes.

[aprilk1815]

I have no problem bringing him in. I would love that, but there is no possible way to keep him from seeing my other pets unless i had my dad out of the room he is now. So until he is moved out of there i am stuck. I am in Michigan. Metro Detroit area. I would love to be his forever home but given all the information i dont think we can be that unless he was okay to see the other pets. We are outside most of the day with him. We play outside and he receives a lot of attention. So if you think that the pets aren't an issue then i will get him in the house now. I would love to have him bond with a forever home. We have bonded with him, we love him.

[Loopy Squirrel]

Glad the little guy is doing so good. I am wondering if the eye has a cataract. This can be caused by many things including nutrition, from a blow to the head (the fall if that is what happened), or sometimes they can be born with them. My little Annie had one and she was blind in that eye. Vet thinks she was born with it. Unfortunately the vet said the cataract would never go away and her sight would never come back in that eye. If it was a corneal abrasion I would think you would see a discharge and /or redness around the eye lid. He probable would squint and scratch at it as well because it would be irritated. Nutritional cataracts usually clear up quite quickly once their nutrition improves. Good luck with the little guy.

[aprilk1815]

He only clicks after he eats. I pet him at all times of the day and the only time he does this is right after he eats when i pet him. Before i feed him he doesn't.

[SammysMom]

I'm on it Farrelli!:thumbsup :thumbsup April and I are seeking assistance right this minute. April really loves him and knows that with her dad being so ill she might really not have the time required for him. She is doing that terribly difficult "best thing" and letting me try to help place him.
:Love_Icon :Love_Icon :Love_Icon

[farrelli]

With the blindness and clumsiness, I think that he's unreleasable. Some people prefer that even half blind squirrels get released, but I'm of the opinion that squirrels can have a wonderful life indoors if properly cared for. Hopefully someone else will weigh in, but I think you have to make a decision about his releaseablity very quickly. I'd opt for him as a pet, but you will have to get a nice cage, furnishings, and cuddle/play toys (stuffed animals about their size without hard eyes and such that they can bite off and choke on are great). You will also have to really keep an eye on the cat situation, but I assume that you've dealt with that before with your ferret. If he ever gets bitten though, he will need antibiotics.

Don't forget to tell us about the clicking.

And if the center you spoke with ever calls you, tell them that you've released him or that he died.

[farrelli]

So does he click when he breathes after he eats? What causes the clicking?

[SammysMom]

I'm the one who called a rehabber. It is a rehabber that came recommended by a wonderful TSB member so we know they are good. April has 3 dogs and 3 cats and a very sick father. She is really just not in a place where this is a good idea for her or the baby. We will work very hard to get him the help needed. I am about to post about possible TSB help.
Do not worry April, you are doing the very best that you can. It really is all that any of us can do. You take care of Dad and let us help you to take care of that baby. Right now, your dad must come before all else in his situation.:grouphug :Love_Icon :grouphug

[Shewhosweptforest]

With the blindness and clumsiness, I think that he's unreleasable. Some people prefer that even half blind squirrels get released, but I'm of the opinion that squirrels can have a wonderful life indoors if properly cared for. Hopefully someone else will weigh in, but I think you have to make a decision about his releaseablity very quickly. I'd opt for him as a pet, but you will have to get a nice cage, furnishings, and cuddle/play toys (stuffed animals about their size without hard eyes and such that they can bite off and choke on are great). You will also have to really keep an eye on the cat situation, but I assume that you've dealt with that before with your ferret. If he ever gets bitten though, he will need antibiotics.

Don't forget to tell us about the clicking.

And if the center you spoke with ever calls you, tell them that you've released him or that he died.


:goodpost :goodpost

Honestly I think any squirrel can have a happy fulfilling life inside with the right commitment from the caregiver..squamy or squaddy....Baby has no physical disabilities...and she survived months out through a hurricane, two tropical storms,:shakehead she just chose to stick with us.....and she's healthy and beautiful ....I don't think the general public should know this because if people can't handle the commitment of a cat or dog ...they would never be able to handle a squirrel.....and a cooped up squirrel would be the cruelest thing to happen:shakehead And some guys absolutely want out:dono I know I'm running on and on again :sorry

[Shewhosweptforest]

I'm the one who called a rehabber. It is a rehabber that came recommended by a wonderful TSB member so we know they are good. April has 3 dogs and 3 cats and a very sick father. She is really just not in a place where this is a good idea for her or the baby. We will work very hard to get him the help needed. I am about to post about possible TSB help.
Do not worry April, you are doing the very best that you can. It really is all that any of us can do. You take care of Dad and let us help you to take care of that baby. Right now, your dad must come before all else in his situation.:grouphug :Love_Icon :grouphug
:goodpost :goodpost

As we've said over and over it's a HUGE COMMITMENT .....sometimes the greatest love is sacrificing our own feelings for the greater good:bowdown :thankyou Aprilk1815 for helping this little guy on his journey:bowdown

[SammysMom]

We have pics!

[SammysMom]

My goodness he is too cute!!! Is it his right eye that is the one with an issue?

[Shewhosweptforest]

:crazy too adorable a furry little fluff ball:grouphug ok it's still chilly in MI ...so sorry for you guys:bowdown

[SammysMom]

Some more pics...

[aprilk1815]

It is his right eye. It's less cloudy than before for sure.

[Loopy Squirrel]

That's great. Maybe it's a nutritional cataract and it will clear completely.

[aprilk1815]

his eye a few days ago

[SammysMom]

Do one now April so we can compare!:thumbsup

[SammysMom]

Look at this beautiful baby!!!

[Shewhosweptforest]

I just want to kiss that wittle head:hyper:Love_Icon

[aprilk1815]

weather wise it hasn't been bad here. It was nice and warm out today. I love little squirrel baby. I was able to pick him up a few times today and he didn't seem to care. He hasn't bit me. I think he is getting used to me now. Tomorrow i will be running some errands for him and my dad so hopefully i will finally have all the things to get him going on the right nutritional path, etc. We also hand wrestled a lot today. He was playing with some kitty toys i put in there. I am off to bed early for once so i will update more sometime tomorrow.

[aprilk1815]

Today my family will be parting ways with squirrel baby. We have found a great person for him. She will not only evaluate him but she will keep him if he is NR! He also will not be far from home which makes my heart happy. It is definitely bittersweet. I know he needs things that i wont be able to give to him during these trying times. We have bonded and i have fallen in love with him. Today he has been letting me hold him and sitting on me. We have come a long way in this week and i want him to have the best life possible and i believe we have found it. One day we will have a squirrel baby. Just not this one unfortunately. We love him and want to thank all of you for your help and teaching us about him. A HUGE THANKS TO SAMMYSMOM!!!! She has not only helped me with him but gave me the confidence with him and knowing that giving him a different home is the right thing. Also willing to send blocks, post pictures for me, and helping me find his new home. I am very appreciative for all the nice things she has done. I will be in touch. Thank you all again! :thankyou

[SammysMom]

April I am going to post your most recent pics here now. I want you to know that you are an amazing young woman. To have a father who is so ill, little human kiddies to care for and to still take the time to find the best care for this little squirrel makes you the hero of the day in my opinion.:bowdown :Love_Icon :bowdown

[farrelli]

:goodpost

You really are a great person! I'm sure your heart aches, but this guy will now have a happy, healthy life and you can take care of all that you have on your plate. I hope the rehaber can share some info and pics!

[SammysMom]

Todays cutie pie pics!

[Squirrel Girls Mom]

Aw, I almost kissed that widdle pink nose on my computer screen!! :Love_Icon
April, you did a great job with this little guy! And so did Sammysmom, as usual. :thumbsup :grouphug

[aprilk1815]

Update on Squirrel baby: He LOVES the rodent blocks. He is safely at the rehabilitators place. This lady is amazing! She is so sweet, has a great heart! She does great things. He is in awesome hands. Not to mention.... HIS EYE CLEARED UP FULLY!!!! He is releasable!!!!!:Love_Icon ! So the little guy will be held on to for a little while longer and set free near her home. Which i might add is awesome!!!! He will have tons of woods to play in, lake access and I'm sure if he visits her home she probably would feed the little guy. I'm so pleased and thankful! :Love_Icon

[kastillo]

Great update. I had no idea about nutritional catarats.
Thanks to everyone involved.
April, you are a HERO!!!:thankyou :D :thumbsup :grouphug

[SammysMom]

April you are my TSB hero of the day for your unselfish act of love. That baby will be happily in the trees being a squirrel because you gave him the gift of your love...:Love_Icon :Love_Icon :Love_Icon

[farrelli]

Yes, thank you for taking such good care of him and finding him his home. Have the new rehaber keep an eye on his eye. At the beginning I told you that sometimes they will clear up, but you should also know that sometimes the process goes backwards. Also, how is his "clumsiness" now?