Squirrel with Paralyzed Paw

[critters]

I've just joined this group to obtain advice regarding a squirrel I saw this morning at my bird feeder. My apologies for responding to an existing post, but could not find instructions on the site as to how to create a new post.

The squirrel I saw this morning seemed healthy, but wasn't using his right front leg at all--it appeared to be paralyzed. The paw/leg seemed normal--no injury that I noticed. Seemd to be the same size as the other one, so no swelling was present. He was a good weight and was eating well and scampered off when I came outside, so he's getting around fine. Should I be concerned? Is there anything I can do to help him? I don't want to not do anything and have permanent damage as the result.

Thanks so much for your advice.
Susan

[Mrs. Jack]

At the top left in a forum or on the forums page you'll see a bar that says 'new thread' that's what you push to make one :) for now, I've forwarded your question to a couple of our rehabbers who be able to either help you out or put your mind to rest.

Myself, every now and then I get a wild with a paw issue and I keep an eye on it and eventually they are using it again, all that leaping, climbing, squabbling can sometimes lead to injuries.. I've not had to step in and take over for any of them, they've healed up on their own.

and welcome

[Mars]

I've just joined this group to obtain advice regarding a squirrel I saw this morning at my bird feeder. My apologies for responding to an existing post, but could not find instructions on the site as to how to create a new post.

The squirrel I saw this morning seemed healthy, but wasn't using his right front leg at all--it appeared to be paralyzed. The paw/leg seemed normal--no injury that I noticed. Seemd to be the same size as the other one, so no swelling was present. He was a good weight and was eating well and scampered off when I came outside, so he's getting around fine. Should I be concerned? Is there anything I can do to help him? I don't want to not do anything and have permanent damage as the result.

Thanks so much for your advice.
Susan

Hi,

Here is a list of rehabbers in NC. It would help if you could get pictures too. My main question would be how does hold it. Is it held up against the body or is he dragging it without any control? Do you think he will be back?

[critters]

Thanks very much for your responses.

I think he'll be back, as food is always available. I'll try to get a picture of him and post it on the site. His little arm/paw appears to be flopping around, so it would seem that he doesn't have control over it.

I'll keep you posted and thanks again!

P.S. Thanks for the directions on how to post a new thread.