Large open wound in stomach of adult nursing squirrel

[wolfcub]

Hi there, I am new to the forum but I wanted to ask for expert advice on a difficult situation. Sorry for the long story but it's very upsetting...
I have been putting almonds out for the last year for an adult female black squirrel. She has had young within the last two weeks (based purely on her size before and after birth and her swollen teets).
On Sunday afternoon, I saw her limping and I thought it was her leg; however, yesterday afternoon (Monday), she sat up and ate her almonds in front of me, thereby giving me full view of her stomach. This was when I saw a massive open gash in her stomach - it looks like her belly has been ripped open. You can actually see inside her. I have uploaded an image (please note - the small white things are actually bird seeds - she lay on a stone where I feed the birds).
She used to come a few times a day, but since Sunday, has only been coming in the late afternoon. I know this is probably because she has newborns.
Anyway, she came again this evening and ate some more almonds. She climbed and moved along the top of the fence - albeit slower than normal. I have also attached an image of her today (Tuesday).
I contacted a wildlife rescue centre, who told me to put a box over her and take her in. Problem is that the centre closes at 5pm and the squirrel has been turning up about 6pm.The centre told me to keep the squirrel in the box, in a warm, dark, quiet place overnight and then take her into the centre first thing in the morning.
Here is the dilemma - do I catch and keep her in overnight (knowing that the stress/shock may kill her - not to mention that I will be keeping her away from her newborns) - or do I leave her to carry on as she is, no doubt in a lot of pain, but able to look after her young.
If I take her to the centre, do you think they can operate on her straight away so that she may not need to be kept in overnight? The wound looks fairly clean, possibly just needs stitches. I may be able to release her back into the garden asap so that the young aren't left alone too long.
Another thing - I won't have access to a car to transport the squirrel until Thursday. Will this be too late?
Any advice would be most welcome. It is very upsetting to see her.
Thank you for reading.

[farrelli]

Very tough call only you can make. Sqs get over a lot of very bad wounds. I cannot tell from this if it's superficial or open to the abdominal cavity. If the latter, I think she'd need to be rescued. I doubt that capturing her would kill her, but if her babies are still nursing, it would kill them. Can you find out where she lives and rescue them if you take her in?

If you don;t rescue, just give her lots of good food and water. Maybe order these:

http://www.henryspets.com/picky-blocks-adult-formula/

Maybe you could give some antibiotics too. What do you have? We can tell you how to dose.

If you do take her in, you will need to be ready with a big cage or a bedroom for her to spend her time pre and post vet. Also, would the vet actually treat her or kill her? they often will. You need to be sure.

Gotta go to bed. Good luck!

[farrelli]

Looks like maybe a whole flap of skin with a teat on it has ripped away? Maybe from a fence?

[wolfcub]

Thank you for the speedy response. I don't actually have any antibiotics. Is there an over-the-counter antibiotic that you could recommend and one which I could try to get from a pharmacy?
I also can't see the nest - she runs along the fence into the neighbours garden and I have no idea where she goes from there.
I'm pretty uncomfortable keeping her away from her young overnight. How many nights do you think would they be able to survive without the warmth and milk from the mother?
Thank you again.

[lilidukes]

I was at Sqrl Central a few years ago when a male squirrel
Chef came in with a similar type wound. It was treated using
silvadene with insulin added to it. No way for wounds like
this to be sutured after being so long since it happened.
This treatment was like watching a miracle happen. So glad
I got to see it work first hand. And of course ab's and metacam
where used also.

This is a catch 22 situation....trap mom and treat and maybe babies
die...don't help mom and she and babies die. I don't envy you
having to make this call.

:grouphug:grouphug:grouphug

[island rehabber]

The wound looks horrific, yes, and there is the ever present possibility of infection for sure.
This is, as lilidukes said, a VERY tough call.
Personally, I would leave her alone for now, but would try my darndest to find her nest for future reference. She may die of this wound, but right now she is feeding herself and her babies and her eyes are clear and alert. She is fulfilling her life as a wild squirrel. To trap her and sentence the babies to starvation or pneumonia (from exposure) would be, in my opinion, a violation of who she is: a wild mother. . Right now she's ok.....I would leave her alone and just make sure she always has food and water.

As for the babies, if they are newborns they cannot go more than 24 hrs with no milk and no warmth from her body.

[squirrelsrule&bunniestoo]

I agree that I'd look for her nest, but not take her in if you don't find it and get the babies. Not sure how much can be done for her if it is open to the abdominal cavity after several days. It almost looks like spleen poking out. I'd say the peritoneum (lining of the abdominal cavity) still has to be intact or she would have died by now. The fact that her intestines aren't eviscerated also supports peritoneum being intact. She is at huge risk in the wild because if she runs from a predator and snags on a branch, she's gonna tear that wide open, but she would likely freak out if trapped and could die in the trap or while freaked out in the cage with the rehabber. I say her risks are high either way and she's happy where she is, so I'd vote to watch it and see how it goes. It doesn't look infected or anything, so that's good.

[farrelli]

So bottom line, please, try your very hardest to find her home. This is very bad situation. If you can find her home and you could get the babies after you get her, do it.

[wolfcub]

Thank you all for your advice.
I'm afraid the layout of my rental property (I am from Scotland and am only here for one year) does not lend itself to me looking for the nest. Our garden is back off the road and is surrounded by six foot fences and then other people's gardens - also fenced off.
I have a Walgreens within walking distance and wondered if anyone could tell me if there are any antibiotics or other medications that I could easily get in there?
I don't want to try to pick her up (I only have gardening gloves) to administer any medication in case I stress her out and she darts away, which could rip the skin flap even more. Something that I could maybe drop onto one of the almonds or one of those Picky blocks?
In relation to her wound, do you think it is too late to see if she could get stitches?
I am struggling to find a vet locally that would be prepared to see a wild animal and be sympathetic i.e. not just put her down - any suggestions? And as you have all mentioned, it isn't a good idea taking her away from her young overnight, which is making me think the wildlife centre is not a particularly good option (I would need to keep her overnight because they close at 5pm).
Fingers crossed that she'll be back later today. I'll post a photo of her if she does. In my first post, the bottom photo is the one from Monday and the top photo from Tuesday. The wound doesn't look any worse, but I noticed she was hunched over more on Tuesday. Maybe just the way she was sitting, but maybe in pain.
I think a problem is that she is coming in the evening. If she came in the morning, I could try to catch her, take her to the wildlife centre, get her treated and hopefully release her back in the garden later that day. That way the young would only be alone during the warmth of the day.
Anyway - thank you again for reading and for all the advice.

[Duckman]

Unfortunately, Antibiotics are by prescription only, but you can get Triple Antibiotic Ointment (how you're going to apply is another story) to put on the wounds. You can get certain Antibiotics (for birds and fish) at a pet store, but I am not certain which though.

[farrelli]

Ask your friends for antibiotics and tell us what you find. We can dose them.

Pet stores often sell ABs for fish and reptiles which are great. Call around and tell us what you find. Fish Flox is great.

[wolfcub]

Ask your friends for antibiotics and tell us what you find. We can dose them.

Pet stores often sell ABs for fish and reptiles which are great. Call around and tell us what you find. Fish Flox is great.

I have found a source on the internet that do same day delivery (no pet shop within walking distance of me).
Would 250mg of amoxycllin or the 250mg of penicillin be better?

[farrelli]

250mg of amoxycllin would be best.

[TubeDriver]

I have found a source on the internet that do same day delivery (no pet shop within walking distance of me).
Would 250mg of amoxycllin or the 250mg of penicillin be better?

Please wait to get exact dosing directions before administering anything! Do not use the whole pill, it is way more than needed for a squirrel!

[sassysquirrel]

Can you imagine how much pain this poor moma
squirrel is in and goes through everytime she
nurses. My heart just breaks for her.


:grouphugMoma squirrel and her babies:grouphug

[farrelli]

Btw, how long would you say she's been nursing? The babies leave at around 13-14 weeks usually, so at around that point, if she's still bad, I would take her in. You'd have to keep her for care. It wouldn't be out patient. If you couldn't keep her for awhile, perhaps we could find someone for you.

God, this case is horrible.

[MollyBear361]

poor mama....:grouphug

[TubeDriver]

poor mama....:grouphug

Awful to see. I wish there was something I could do. :(


:grouphug:grouphug:grouphug

[DarkLies212]

Sending lots of prayers her way :Love_Icon
Poor momma :grouphug

[wolfcub]

Btw, how long would you say she's been nursing? The babies leave at around 13-14 weeks usually, so at around that point, if she's still bad, I would take her in. You'd have to keep her for care. It wouldn't be out patient. If you couldn't keep her for awhile, perhaps we could find someone for you.

God, this case is horrible.

I would say she has been nursing for no longer than two weeks. How long do they actually nurse for?
If she survives, could I take her in after she has finished nursing? Would the young survive a couple of nights without her at this point? Waiting 13-14 weeks seems an awful long time in this condition.
If they would, are there any obvious signs that I should be keeping my eyes open for to indicate that she has stopped nursing?

[wolfcub]

I would be prepared to take her in to care for her (as long as the landlord doesn't find out! He's not the most wildlife friendly person).

[farrelli]

They usually start weaning around 8 weeks but I think continue nursing until well after that. It hurts me to look at those pics, but those nipples look like they've been in use for a lot more than two weeks. Were they always so bare and distended or was she fairly indistinguishable from a male up until recently? I'm no expert on judging how long she's been nursing but she looks like not such a new mommy.

If there is any way to figure out where she lives, that would be best. Maybe hire neighborhood kids? If you knew where they were you could see if they're old enough to be peaking out yet, or even capture them if you grab the mom, or rescue them if she succumbs.

If the babies are really young, they could not survive without mom for a couple days. If they're still dependent on milk, and they're not pinkies, about one day after she disappears they will try to get to help themselves. Even if they have their eyes closed. If they're open, they will often approach other animals and people for help, often to a bad end. It's really heartbreaking.

[wolfcub]

Here is a picture of her on 7 March. Her nipples are small, but I thought she was pregnant in this photo because of her size. Do you think she was nursing in this picture?232437

[farrelli]

I've asked a few people who've seen a lot of nursing momma's before to throw in their opinions on how far along she might be.

This is such a horrible situation. It would be killing me.

[solarx10]

This is the hardest kind of injury - that of a nursing mom.

Comparing her to my nursing moms, that looks like she may be only a few weeks in (?) by the later part of nursing they look more red and swollen and generally very "used"

I would monitor that wound the best you can. For now let her feed her babies and try to find her nest.

I know these are hard calls to make thinking if you take her the babies will die, but if she gets bad they may all die.

:grouphug

[California Squirrel Lover]

Oh my gosh, that poor mama!! what a bad looking wound. How terrible, I feel so bad for her and the babies. Now that I see what solarx10 mentioned, about how the nipples look more swollen and used after nursing for quite a while, I can remember that in one of my nursing wilds. So based on your observations, and the look of her nipples, it does not seem like her babies are old enough to survive without her. My gosh, this is a terrible situation. If only you could find her nest. Is there no chance of that? Are there any friends or neighbors or family who could help you try to follow her when she leaves?

[sassysquirrel]

I just don't know. By the looks of her nipples the babies should be old
enough to survive. But with that injury is she able to produce enough milk for whatever babies she might have. Or might of had. I mean
it is possible she might of have already maybe lost her babies due to her injury. Wish it was possible to follow her and find her nest.

Does her nipples look wet?

[California Squirrel Lover]

Question for more experienced people on here: Is mama's only chance of survival if she is trapped and given medical attention, or does she have a chance if given antibiotics? I don't know if this question can even be answered, but I was wondering.

[wolfcub]

Thank you again for all your advice.
I'm afraid she didn't turn up today and the sun is setting now.
Fingers crossed for a more promising day tomorrow.
This is very upsetting and I really do thank you all for your advice and help.
I'll keep you updated...

[California Squirrel Lover]

wolfcub, I'm so sorry, my heart is hurting for that poor mama and her babies, and for you. I will say some prayers that she's still out there, and will come to you tomorrow. Please let us know. :grouphug:grouphug:grouphug

[Coralreefer]

The debate seems to be the choice between intervening to help the mother or not intervening so her babies survive.
Well if the mother dies then the young will be left for dead so both may happen regardless. The babies may already be in trouble because of her injuries as is.

The only scenario which solves both issues is obvious. If someone really wants to save both they have to track this squirrel to the nest.
If you can do that I'd intervene by getting the mother if you can and then going to the nest to retrieve the little ones.

[MollyBear361]

Do we have a TSB member in the area or a rehabber that can look for babies and help momma??

[TubeDriver]

Thoughts and prayers going out to this momma and her babies! :Love_Icon

[California Squirrel Lover]

I'm more north of this one, at least a couple hours. I wish I could get down there to help look for the nest, I'm not a rehabber, though, plus I'm stuck waiting for workers to come here to the house. I was wondering if she had anyone, friends, neighbors, anyone who would help her follow mama, if she comes back today? I'm sick thinking about this mama. :grouphug:grouphug

[wolfcub]

She has just come back!
This is the first time she has been back during the morning (10.30am) since Sunday. She was jumping a little better across the top of the fence and wasn't limping.
I have attached a couple of photos. I'm not sure, but I think her nipples are looking a little smaller now?
I have looked over the fences in the surrounding back gardens but I cannot see any nest in the nearby trees. I'm not sure how far a squirrel would travel to and fro between their nests? I know red squirrels (in Scotland) have a couple of nests which they move their young between if one nest is infested with mites or is threatened.
Also, I have another nursing black squirrel that visits my garden so locating the correct nest could be very difficult.

232503232502232501

[MollyBear361]

geez, that doesn't look any better.....is it just me or do her eyes look less clear than the previous??

[California Squirrel Lover]

oh my gosh, I'm so glad she came back!!! Still praying for her and her babies. It's wonderful she knows she can come to you for food. :grouphug:grouphug:grouphug

[DarkLies212]

From the pics, though, she looks to be in pain :(

[wolfcub]

Do you think it is getting worse?
Should I try to catch her and take her to the wildlife centre - without her babies?

[TubeDriver]

Do you think it is getting worse?
Should I try to catch her and take her to the wildlife centre - without her babies?

I do not think it looks any worse. Not much better either but it does not look infected (reddish, swollen, discharge etc) at this point. her eyes are in direct sunlight so they might not look as bright in these recent pics.

She looks like she might have lost a little weight but not much at this point.

If this was me I would do the following:

1) I would try to find out where her nest is. Even if you can not physically follow, you might be able to watch her path using binoculars/camera with zoom lens. If she climbs a tree, scan the tree for dreys or holes that she might use as a nest

2) I would continue to provide her with fresh water and food. I would order a couple bags of Henries Wild Bites that contain nutrition and vitamins. Providing her with easy access to food and fresh water is VERY important. The less she has to move around, the better then chance that she can heal.

3) If she does get worse (infection) then I would try to trap and treat. If she appears to be the same or getting better, I would not trap her since babies are probably involved.

You can reassess her situation at each sighting and continue getting pictures. That injury looks pretty bad, I am not sure she can recover from it without help but squirrels do have amazing healing powers.

[czarina]

What state are you in?

[wolfcub]

What state are you in?

I am in south San Jose, California.

[czarina]

Sorry, I'm in Louisiana. Too far to help. Please try to find the next

[czarina]

Eer. Nest

[czarina]

Are you in college? Do they have a vet school? You could show the pic around and maybe find someone willing to help. Just throwing around idea's

[farrelli]

I would actually get the Henry's Picky Eaters. The Wild Bites are for people who feed a lot of sqs and are looking to save money. They taste much better and would probably be better accepted:

http://www.henryspets.com/picky-blocks-adult-formula/

I would also get some avocado (no seed or pit - toxic). Most sqs LOVE them and they provide a lot of good fat and calories.

If you see no nests, do you see any tree hollows or nesting material sticking out of any overhangs, rafters, and such?

[wolfcub]

I would actually get the Henry's Picky Eaters. The Wild Bites are for people who feed a lot of sqs and are looking to save money. They taste much better and would probably be better accepted:

http://www.henryspets.com/picky-blocks-adult-formula/

I would also get some avocado (no seed or pit - toxic). Most sqs LOVE them and they provide a lot of good fat and calories.

If you see no nests, do you see any tree hollows or nesting material sticking out of any overhangs, rafters, and such?

I have actually ordered both picky blocks and wild bites. The Fish Flox hasn't arrived yet...
Should I half the avocado and mash it?

[TubeDriver]

I have actually ordered both picky blocks and wild bites. The Fish Flox hasn't arrived yet...
Should I half the avocado and mash it?

Avocado skin and pits are TOXIC to squirrels. The Avocado meat is tasty and full of fat.


I just remove some meat, cut into small chunks and serve.



Do you have specific dosing directions for the Cipro (250 or 500mg)? A single pill will be more than enough to work for entire 7-10 day course of treatment. I can get exact dosage directions for you if needed?

[wolfcub]

Avocado skin and pits are TOXIC to squirrels. The Avocado meat is tasty and full of fat.
I just remove some meat, cut into small chunks and serve.
Do you have specific dosing directions for the Cipro (250 or 500mg)? A single pill will be more than enough to work for entire 7-10 day course of treatment. I can get exact dosage directions for you if needed?

I ordered the 250mg amoxicillin one - still waiting for delivery.
I have just sent my husband out to try to find Fish Flox or Fish Mox in the pet shops in San Jose. Hopefully I'll have that by the end of the day.

[farrelli]

Fish Flox would be best. It's actually Baytril. Fish Mox is what you've already ordered, Amoxi.

[wolfcub]

The squirrel was just back again (4.30pm). That has been twice today.
I'm afraid she wasn't impressed with the avocado though. She did eat a lot of almonds. Still waiting on the picky blocks, wild bites and fish flow.
Here are a couple of pictures of her from different angles. I also took a video of her running along the fence if anyone is interested (not sure if I can upload a video though).
I climbed up the back fence and saw that she went about five metres down a neighbours fence. After that, I can't see because of the trees and bushes and the houses.
There is a massive eucalyptus tree about three gardens away (I can only see the top part because of the house in front) and I did see a black squirrel up there earlier jumping, but the way it leaping from branch to branch makes me think it is very unlikely to be her.

[farrelli]

Poor baby! That has to hurt so much. I wonder if it inhibits her feeding, if the teats are still functional.

You cant upload video but you can put it on Youtube and post a link here. Or I can put it on my webserver if you can't do that. Just let me know.

[farrelli]

Did she try the avocado?

[wolfcub]

Did she try the avocado?

Yes, she sniffed it, picked it up and nibbled about half a piece. She didn't go near the rest.
She did eat quite a few almonds though, which is better than nothing.
She never drinks from my garden though so she maybe has another water source somewhere - there are plenty sprinklers around that may be leaking.

[wolfcub]

Poor baby! That has to hurt so much. I wonder if it inhibits her feeding, if the teats are still functional.

You cant upload video but you can put it on Youtube and post a link here. Or I can put it on my webserver if you can't do that. Just let me know.

I also wonder if her teats are still producing or whether she has stopped nursing? They look smaller than the first photo I posted on Monday.

I'll investigate posting on YouTube… it may take me a while though!

[wolfcub]

I also wonder if her teats are still producing or whether she has stopped nursing? They look smaller than the first photo I posted on Monday.

I'll investigate posting on YouTube… it may take me a while though!

Here is a video of her running along the top of the fence. Sorry for the shaky hand. I hope this links works…

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wLwV6XQBrR0&feature=youtu.be

All the black squirrels seem to wipe their mouth on that part of the fence - I assume it is scent marking?

[TubeDriver]

Here is a video of her running along the top of the fence. Sorry for the shaky hand. I hope this links works…

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wLwV6XQBrR0&feature=youtu.be

All the black squirrels seem to wipe their mouth on that part of the fence - I assume it is scent marking?

Correct about the marking. She moves amazingly well considering her injury.

[sassysquirrel]

With my greys that are nursing - their nipples are usually red or really pink. You can definitely tell babies have been nursing. This moma squirrels nipples look to clean. Do you know what I mean?

Let me post a pics of Daisy

[redwuff]

thanks so much for caring for that sweet mother. Please continue to keep us updated. I will be praying for her.

Trysh

[California Squirrel Lover]

Yes, thank you so much for caring and trying to help her, she truly needs it. I can't imagine how much harder it would be on her if she did not have you giving her food. She needs you. I feel so bad for her, sweet mama. :( I'll be saying some prayers for her. :grouphug:grouphug

[sdreamcatcher]

Adding my prayers and good vibes too, for her and her little ones. Thank you for looking out for her and caring so much :Love_Icon:Love_Icon

[wolfcub]

It has been raining overnight here in south San Jose, but not cold. Hope the squirrel survived the night.
My deliveries haven't arrived yet so I'm going to contact the wildlife centre to see if they can do anything.

[California Squirrel Lover]

wolfcub, yes, I really hope she's ok. I actually woke up in the middle of the night worrying about her. Good idea about contacting the wildlife center! Let us know what they say.

[wolfcub]

So it hasn't stopped raining here in south San Jose today. I was getting really worried about the squirrel and if she survived the night. But she turned up today at 5pm (when it stopped raining). I have attached a photo of her.
How do you think her wound is looking? It is looking a little paler and less red than earlier in the week.
Her nipples are also much smaller now. So she may have lost the young or they aren't suckling as much?
I contacted the wildlife centre who were keen for me to take her in, but they also said that they couldn't give me any antibiotics because it is illegal for a member of the public to dose and administer them to a wild animal.
I tried to catch her with a box, but she is still too fast and I failed. The box method maybe only works for an incapacitated animal. She definitely still has her wits about her.
Unfortunately I am going away tomorrow evening a few days. I am going to go to the pet shop though to see if I can get an automatic feeder dispenser and set it up for late afternoon when she normally comes.
My picky blocks and wild bites aren't going to arrive until Monday now and the Fish Mox order was incomplete so it hasn't even been processed!
I will continue to keep you updated - and thank you again for all your thoughts and advice.

[SammysMom]

:thankyouso much for being so concerned and trying so hard to help her. It does look at bit paler to me in this pic. I am amazed every day at the fact that these little ones can recuperate from horrific wounds in the wild. Nature is an awesome force...:Love_Icon:Love_Icon:Love_Icon

[TubeDriver]

She still looks strong and healthy. Her coat is groomed and sleek, she does not appear to have lost much if any weight. She is mobile and alert. Her appetite sounds consistent.

The wound does look better. It looks dry, not swollen and not inflamed. It almost looks like the wound is partially closed over although I am not sure how that is possible?

I think she will be alright over the weekend. I would leave her some extra food at the very least and a big bowl of fresh water.

I am keeping my fingers crossed for this brave, tough Momma squirrel.:Love_Icon

[farrelli]

If you're going to catch her, are you familiar with Have-a-Hart traps? SOmetimes you can rent them from shelters and such, and they can be bought for maybe $40.

[California Squirrel Lover]

Hey!! I have a brand new bottle of "FISH FLOX FORTE", I've had it a while, never used it, and I thought I'd thrown it away! It's dated May of 2015, do you need it?? I can't believe this, I seriously thought I got rid of it, and I JUST now found it

[wolfcub]

Hey!! I have a brand new bottle of "FISH FLOX FORTE", I've had it a while, never used it, and I thought I'd thrown it away! It's dated May of 2015, do you need it?? I can't believe this, I seriously thought I got rid of it, and I JUST now found it

Thank you very much but because I am going away for a few days, I don't think I would be able to use it…? I can't really leave it out with the almonds because I have another nursing black squirrel and a jumpy black squirrel youngster :-) Plus a grey squirrel. Not to mention my Western scrub jay that tries to steal all the almonds!

We will be back next Friday. Assuming she is still okay when we come back (not sure how the wound will progress over the next few days), do you/others think it might be a good idea to use it? In which case - I would definitely be interested! Thank you for offering… I'm not sure how to use this forum but is there a way of personal messaging? Or I can give you my email address if you like??
:thankyou

[farrelli]

Always good to have on hand. This girl is a long way from safe. I'd get what you can to be prepared for your return. If unneeded for either good or bad reasons, you can always sent it back. There's a;ways sqs on here needing help.

[wolfcub]

So, because I am away for a few days and am desperately worried about her, I have bought a feeder dispenser for her almonds, a drip-water dispenser, a water fountain (placed under the sprinklers so it will be fresh every day) and also a pet webcam that we have just installed so I can monitor her.
Not sure if I can do anything else whilst I'm away. Just pray that she pulls through the next few days.

[farrelli]

You're so good to her! I really hope that she's there for you on your return. If you have to take her in when you get back, I hope she's the kind that will take well to it. Maybe you'll end up being her forever mommy.

I don;t know if she;ll be operable, so it's just a wait and see as to how her body will heal. If it'll be good enough to carry on alone, or have to be taken in. I mean, if those nipples aren't functional, I'd hate to see her continue breeding to always lose her babies. :(

Can you ask any neighors to look in?

[farrelli]

Btw, always be wary of people who will take her. Many will just euthanize and lie to you. She clearly deserves better than that.

[czarina]

The wound does not appear to be getting worse. I wonder if perhaps another neighbor is medicating her?

[TubeDriver]

So, because I am away for a few days and am desperately worried about her, I have bought a feeder dispenser for her almonds, a drip-water dispenser, a water fountain (placed under the sprinklers so it will be fresh every day) and also a pet webcam that we have just installed so I can monitor her.
Not sure if I can do anything else whilst I'm away. Just pray that she pulls through the next few days.

Thank you for helping her! :thankyou

You are doing so much more than many would do. I think that you will know a lot more when you return. For better or worse, I think we will know if she can heal up after another week.

You can use PM. We can help with specific dosing info. Cipro would be useful but is not the best AB for this type of deep wound.

[CritterMom]

I just want to throw this out there... I have seen a number of photos over the years of nursing mamas that looked like they had been suckling sharks instead of squirrel babies - their nipples just torn and gaping wounds that were sickening to look at. I think this is happening to this mama and I believe the bad wound may have been aggravated because the poor thing was hanging down where it shouldn't. We have seen what baby squirrels do the the hardened plastic of the re-usable syringes which are made extra strong; now translate that to a mama squirrel.

I am hesitant to give antibiotics because the IS still nursing. I think she is looking better in the last pics - her eyes look fine. I think providing her with ample food and fresh water is an excellent idea. Her own immune system may be enough, boosting that with good food is a good way to do it.

[wolfcub]

The squirrel has just come back! 8.20am. This is the first time she has been back in the morning since last Sunday, when I think the injury happened.
She has figured out my feeder as well, whilst the other nursing female seems to be terrified of it.
I have attached two pictures of her this morning.
Oh - fingers crossed for her… She is amazing.

[wolfcub]

I am hesitant to give antibiotics because the IS still nursing. I think she is looking better in the last pics - her eyes look fine. I think providing her with ample food and fresh water is an excellent idea. Her own immune system may be enough, boosting that with good food is a good way to do it.

When I get back next Friday, I will take some photos of her and post them. I'm sure the experts on this forum will be able to see if the wounds needs antibiotics and provide proper dosage and instructions. I understand your point though. But her nipples have reduced in size quite considerably since Sunday so I'm not sure if she is still nursing? I don't know though.

[SammysMom]

She looks awesome! Thank-you for caring so much for her. She will be in my prayers while you are away, but I have a good feeling about her. They have amazing healing abilities. Perhaps, as Crittermom says, this is a nursing wound. It sure doesn't make it any less horrible, but it is far less potential for infection than if it was from another animal.:grouphug

[California Squirrel Lover]

Hi wolfcub! LOL, I was all amped up to run down there in person and drop them off today, just sent you a PM asking you if that was ok, but now I see you won't be there for a few days. In that case, I can just mail them, and I'll send you a message when I do. I'm so happy this sweet mama squirrel has you looking out for her, I don't think most people care. She's so beautiful, I really hope she's going to be fine. :Love_Icon:Love_Icon:Love_Icon

[TubeDriver]

Other than the terrible injury, she looks fantastic!

Good weight, alert, well groomed, bright eyed. I am hoping that her health and squirrel healing powers will be all that is needed.

:thumbsup

[squirrelfriend]

Wow. I can't believe this squirrel survived that injury. She looks great! I wish the best for her and you. Thanks for caring for her and keeping her fed. At times like these it really helps for them to not have to look for food. Feeders really help the ones that are not well.

[wolfcub]

My video seems to be working great. She turned up this morning at 8.34 and stayed until 8.57 eating the almonds. She ate loads. Hopefully she'll come back later this afternoon as well.
I'll keep you all updated - thank you again for your thoughts.
The stills aren't high quality though so I won't post them...

[California Squirrel Lover]

that's great she's coming back to eat! thank you for keeping us updated!! :thumbsup

[BigNibbler]

This is a heart wrenching situation. The idea of her nursing her babies, climbing aggressively all over her, with what seems like a painful wound even if mostly superficial, moves me to tears over her dedication.
I am responding because almonds have always been my nut of choice for my wilds and I have years of experience with some.
They can eat 18 nuts in a day when nursing and still want more.
So put that in perspective as to what she is eating.
Nothing will thrill her as much as nuts.
I would use peanut butter slathered over some nuts to get her to make sure she likes the peanut butter which she may not be too used to.
Then I would mix into the peanut butter what I want to deliver to her.
Certainly calcium powder to compensate for the almonds.
Likely antibiotics.
Possibly metacam.

I agree that she may have had to cease feeding her young.
When the babies get big, that is when the teats get really humongous.
She can be feeding pinkies for weeks, without her nipples getting to distended.
But as the kittens grow they require much more volume of milk, which is why over the weeks the teats get larger plus their kittens grow stronger and their suckling is more aggressive.

Unless you are very very lucky, you will not find a place to administer the aid you want, and the SQ will not be one you know once she is captured and forced to lose the one thing that she values most - her freedom.

Possibly, you could speak to your neighbors. Find out who has a heart. Maybe work together to administer to her.

Thank you for caring.
And good luck.

[BigNibbler]

STATUS ?

[wolfcub]

STATUS ?

I am still away but due back late tonight. I have been checking the camera regularly and she has been coming every day. I cant see her wound very well though because she is in the shade.
The nuts lasted three full days before the rats figured out how to get them. She hasnt turned up yet today though. I will update everyone tomorrow...

[California Squirrel Lover]

Hi wolfcub! :wave123 I sent you something in the mail, it was supposed to arrive Friday. Hopefully it's there when you get home, just in case you need it. Safe travels!

[TubeDriver]

Keeping my fingers crossed!:grouphug

You have really been creative about helping her when you were away!:thumbsup

[wolfcub]

She has returned!! And - to me - I think the wound is looking like it is healing okay? What do the experts think?
California Squirrel Lover kindly posted some Fish Flox Forte Cipro 500mg to me (thank you!). I'm not sure if she looks like she needs it now though?

[wolfcub]

Out of interest, here are photos showing the healing progress of the injury from Monday week 1 (first time I could actually see her injury), Saturday of week 1 and today (Monday of week 3).

Monday week 1
233680

Saturday week 1
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Monday week 3
233683

[MJS]

COMPARED TO THE FIRST PICS, SHE LOOKS GREAT!!! :thumbsup

[Squirlgirl]

What a tough little Momma, lookd great. I love her little white walrus whiskers.:thumbsup:Love_Icon

[SammysMom]

Still more proof that mother nature sometimes really takes care of these little creatures. Imagine a human getting a similsr injury and just carrying on, business as usual? Yeah, RIGHT!!!
I am so glad for all of you that she seems to be doing so well!!!:Love_Icon:Love_Icon:Love_Icon

[TubeDriver]

I am no expert but I would NOT give AB at this point in time.

That recovery borders on the miraculous. I am always preaching about squirrrel's incredible healing powers but this has me a bit surprised! :thumbsup

I would continue to monitor her, take pictures and keep a close eye for any infection (swelling, redness, discharge, reopening of the wound). You have medicine if needed but right now it looks like all that med would do is give her an upset stomach! I would also continue to provide her easy access to clean, fresh water (changed out daily if possible) and food. This probably helped to keep her strength up and aided in the healing process.

One more thing, when a wound closes up, sometimes that is when certain types of infections can take hold so keep a close eye over the next couple weeks.

Great update, I am so happy for you and your squirrel friend!:crazy

[DarkLies212]

She looks AMAZING!! I can't believe what these critters go through :eek
Also, your pics are in perfect focus! Does she allow you to get that close?

[wolfcub]

She looks AMAZING!! I can't believe what these critters go through :eek
Also, your pics are in perfect focus! Does she allow you to get that close?

She comes right to the back door and sits just outside. I am working on a computer about 2 metres away from her and I normally just zoom in with the camera.
When I put more almonds out for her, she only moves away by about 6 inches. She seems quite relaxed around me as long as I don't make any sudden movement.
My webcam that I used to monitor her when I was away last week is only about two feet way from her. I had really nice close ups of her peering through the window into the webcam - very funny. She is such a character.

[squirrelsrule&bunniestoo]

That is amazing! What a quick recovery, so glad that she was able to stay in the wild with her little ones.

[California Squirrel Lover]

Hi wolfcub! I'm only posting these pictures so you see what the exact bottle looks like, both for the fish flox and the echinacea. I know you're probably not even going to give her the antibiotics, I only wanted to show you the bottle of what it is you have!

233690233691233692233693


This is the echinacea I've given my injured wilds, Herb Pharm liquid echinacea, alcohol free

233694

[California Squirrel Lover]

I just saw her latest pictures, my gosh, that's AMAZING!!! Oh, she's looking wonderful, I'm so happy to see that!! :thumbsup :Love_Icon:Love_Icon:Love_Icon

[Madamelipstick]

CMfairyCMfairy:goofwe:goofwe:goofwe:goofwe:bounce2 :bounce2:bounce2:bounce2:bounce2Oh God is good. So happy to get this news and these pics. I pray things continue in this direction. Thanks to the Father from whom all things come. woot woot

[Kyndria]

Wow. Thank you so much for caring for this tough momma! I don't know how she healed so well, but I'm sure a steady supply of nutrition that you've been giving her has factored in tremendously. Good job!

[Bravo]

To be honest, I was afraid to look at this thread until today... and sure enough, those first photos are almost as blood soaked as the meat shots I remember from industrial first aid. So it's all the more incredible to see this little one continuing on and healing so completely. You are a lifesaver ... I couldn't have imagined it. :grouphug :bowdown

[Duckman]

I also have been afraid to follow too closely, as it has brought more than a tear to my eyes. Seeing this little girl's power of healing is truly phenomenal and I am just beyond words with happiness at her recovery. Squirrels continue to simply amaze me in their ability to adapt and heal. :grouphug:Love_Icon:grouphug

[wolfcub]

The squirrel came back twice today - about 8.30am and then again at 2.15pm.
She is continuing to eat the almonds, but doesn't seem to drink the water I put out for her. I think she must have another source.
She seemed a little nervous today (maybe because there have been a couple of crows squawking nearby). She took the almonds and then sat on my windowsill to eat them. She is a very clever squirrel.
I don't have a very good picture of her today because she was facing away from me a lot and looking into the garden or sitting on the windowsill, but I have attached an image (a bit on the shady side though). Not a very good view of her, but at least the wound looks like it is continuing to heal.
Hopefully I'll get a clearer view tomorrow.

[California Squirrel Lover]

wolfcub, this is amazing, look at her!! :Love_Icon:Love_Icon Sweet, beautiful girl, I hope she continues to get better and better. I'm sorry I can't remember if she has a name, did you ever name her?

[farrelli]

I;m so surprised that this is turning out so well. I don't think she could have made it without your support. I hope you two are friends for many years to come and that maybe she'll even let you had feed her eventually. That would be a good relationship for a number of reasons, especially if she gets injured again. I have such a big worry that maybe her abdominal wall is permanently compromised.

[wolfcub]

I'm happy to report that she has been back again today.
I have posted a couple of pictures below. One is in the sun and the other is just as she was about to move, but you can see the wound quite well.

[wolfcub]

From about 10am this morning to 1pm this afternoon, I have had a real soap opera unfolding in the garden…

A young black squirrel (I've nicknamed Jumpy) was first on the scene to start eating the almonds. Five minutes later, the healthy nursing squirrel appeared and chased Jumpy away from the almonds. She was closely followed by a grey squirrel, who proceeded to chase Jumpy, but didn't get a look in on the almonds in the feeder. The healthy nursing squirrel was obviously top of the ladder...
Until the injured squirrel arrived…
Then there was a stand-off by the feeder - lots of tail swishing and funny grunting noises.
The healthy nursing squirrel ended up running away from the injured squirrel, and no contact was made at all.
For the following couple of hours, I had the injured squirrel coming backwards and forwards and taking as many almonds as she could possibly fit into her mouth and running away with them to hide them somewhere. In the meantime, Jumpy was coming and taking as many as he could carry as well :-)

I have been totally enthralled by all four squirrels today and couldn't get the cemetery scene from The Good, The Bad and The Ugly out my head!

[SammysMom]

This is one of my favorite threads! You are seriously doing such a great job keeping up with them and telling a wonderful story!!!:grouphug:Love_Icon:grouphug

[California Squirrel Lover]

That's interesting, sounds like injured mama stood her ground! I'm just so happy she's doing better, I'm very relieved. I agree, I just don't know if she would have made it without your help. :Love_Icon:Love_Icon Let us know if you give injured mama a name! :grin3 :thumbsup

[farrelli]

I hope squirrelsrule weighs in. The wound looks a lot better to me but I'm worried about what will happen to the flaps of skin and if the abdominal wall could be too thin or something.

[wolfcub]

She has been backwards and forwards again this morning, eating the almonds and taking quite a few to stash in a safe place.
Here are some pictures of her from different angles from about 10am today.
In one of the pictures (InjuredSquirrel_Week3_Thurs3.jpg), there appears to be some fleshy part sticking out of her wound…? This doesn't seem to be visible when she hunches over though, as in the other pictures.
I have also attached a close up of her wound. I think there is a little bit of scab forming?
I don't really know if this wound would ever close over because of the size of the gash.
Goodness knows what would happen if she fell pregnant again. Is she likely to have another litter this year?

[farrelli]

Yes, she will have another litter or two in such a warm place.

I wonder if it would be wise to take her in after her babies are surely old enough to be on their own so that she can be evaluated. Do you have someone to look at her? I also worry about the functionality of her teats. I would hate to see her having litter after litter in her life for them to all or mostly all die.

[Madamelipstick]

I am simple amazed and thankful for her progress. It looks as though the teats are way down now I ma sure the lack of weight is helping with the healing. I can imagine how with as much skin as there is how it could close up completely. This is such a blessing for both you and the squirrel. Keeping you in our prayers, looks like a miracle in the making. Congrats on a job well done.

[TubeDriver]

I think she is well on her way to recovery. Just amazing! :thumbsup

[BigNibbler]

I scanned the latest posts very quickly, but if I understand it, you have a few squirrels jockeying for priority over your nuts.
I suggest that it will be safer for them, if you minimize potential controversy by placing at least as many different containers of nuts as are principal contenders. Or at least 2 -3 so that they do not feel desperate to control one source. Someone can and will get hurt. Also, you can train them to eat rodent nuggets. Nuggets are healthier you know this.
Dust them with almond powder after they are submerged in boiling oil for a minute.
Or treat them with boiling almond oil or avocado oil.

[wolfcub]

I actually already have a number of almonds dotted around the garden and all four squirrels quite often feed in the garden at the same time.
When I was way last week, however, I only had one feeder, which I positioned near my webcam. I wanted the injured squirrel to know where it could come for food.
I suppose this easy source of food could become a battleground as you said.
Perhaps I should take the feeder away now and just have the food dotted around the garden as before? I was just a bit worried about the injured squirrel digging and possibly getting dirt in her wound.

[wolfcub]

I just thought I would give an update about the female squirrel. She is continuing to come and feed in the garden and she looks really well. Her stomach now has hair growing over it so difficult to actually see how well the wound has healed, but I think it looks good - please see the picture, which was taken yesterday.
I am still keeping a close eye on her though for signs of infection, reopening of wound, etc. as TubeDriver recommended.
Thank you again for all your help and advice.
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[Shewhosweptforest]

Thanks for the great update :thankyou :Love_Icon She looks great:thumbsup Thanks to you :bowdown:grouphug

[czarina]

Just wanted to add my thanks for all the worrying and care you gave this girl.

Its doubtful she would have fared this well without your intervention.

I really look forward to your updates.:thankyou

:wave123:wave123:wave123:wave:wave

[Madamelipstick]

Oh thanks for the update. I just asked about three days ago if any one had heard any thing on this little girl. Thank you for putting my mind at ease. She looks like she is doing very good. Yeah thanks for keeping her on your radar and keeping us in the loop.

[Saverywood]

I have been watching this thread too, but was afraid that it wasn't gonna end good...so glad for the update and photos. :thankyou

[biggjimm]

I am very surprised, impressed & happy that this has turned out as good as it has so far. To be honest, like a lot of others on here, when I seen that first pic I thought there is no way that is going to heal without some kind of intervention. I really expected a massive infection to set in. There is no doubt that you keeping her supplied in food played a major role in her miraculous healing. If she had to forage for food it would have taken much if her energy & would have been a greater chance for a nasty infection to set in. Thank you for taking the time to care. And for all whi helped & prayed from TSB. Unfortunately, I know people whi would not have provided care like that to another human, let alone a squirrel. There truly are awesome people still around & I'm honored to be associated to them through this forum. God bless. Jim.

[TubeDriver]

Great update! She continues to look better and better.:thumbsup. Simply amazing.


I think you should continue to watch over her but she really looks better to me.

I try to not leave lots of food in one place, it can lead to fighting. I typically will feed my wilds as they show up, I throw each approaching squirrel a treat so they dont have to fight over a pile of treats. I will leave a small amount there when I leave for work but that is it. I think my wilds know that there is morning and afternoon treat time at my place.
.

[California Squirrel Lover]

Hi wolfcub! It's just amazing how well this sweet girl looks, I can't get over it. She's so fortunate to have you watching out for her. :grin3 :thumbsup