Immobilizing a squirrel for meds

[StringTheory]

I've tried a few different methods for holding the little buggers still for eyedropper'd meds. Still haven't found any way that works well. Any recommendations?

[darrakm]

This might help:
Flyer restraint holds
http://www.nfsa.us/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=3775

[Secret Squirrel]

I use a receiving blanket and cover the entire squirrel. Then just expose the squirrels mouth area while keeping the squirrels covered. I find it's easier to sit down while doing this and use my lap as a stabilizer.

[Gabe]

I dona't pick up the squirrel as that is just a whole other fight and too much stress for us both, instead I just approach slowly and cautiously for oral meds. I hold the syringe out and keep advancing until the squirrel opens his mouth to chatter or bite. I drip a small amount onto the tongue and they lap it right down. Course it only works on the good tasting meds.:D

Secret Squirrel I give you credit for being brave enough to pick up the adult squirrels.

[StringTheory]

I use a receiving blanket and cover the entire squirrel. Then just expose the squirrels mouth area while keeping the squirrels covered. I find it's easier to sit down while doing this and use my lap as a stabilizer.
That's basically what I've done, but usually while standing up. Left hand with heavy glove on, holding the little culprit from the back of the neck so he can't twist around (still does sometimes. Ouch) and using my forearm to hold him against my chest.

The trick with that is to keep his head-neck-body in alignment so he can't hurt himself. If he turns too much or goes spastic I let him go to make sure he doesn't get injured (always in a small area or into a cage, where he can't go too crazy). That's a lot to keep track of, and nerve-wracking for both of us. I was hoping that I was doing it wrong. <g>

I'm not sure about the term 'receiving blanket.' I've just used soft fleece that has proven to be relatively snag-free. I have been considering something with rubber-like backing so he can't twist away as easily. Can you describe the 'receiving blanket' that you are using?

[StringTheory]

I dona't pick up the squirrel as that is just a whole other fight and too much stress for us both, instead I just approach slowly and cautiously for oral meds. I hold the syringe out and keep advancing until the squirrel opens his mouth to chatter or bite. I drip a small amount onto the tongue and they lap it right down. .
You've been able to get meds in them without restraining them?! I'm trying to imagine that. You must be a reincarnated squirrel to inspire that much trust.



Course it only works on the good tasting meds.
I always taste the stuff that I'm about to force on the poor little buggers. Let's see you do your trick with Metronidazole. <g> (I could not shake that taste for about an hour)

[Gabe]

It really works. I take the nest box out, they back off into the corner and I approach slowly. I think the trick is not making eye contact as that is a very agressive action. It is much less stressful than having to go through the chase and capture everyday.
Perhaps I am a squirrel whisperer?:D

[Buddy'sMom]

A "receiving blanket" is a baby blanket -- i.e., small and lightweight. A piece of fleece would work too, maybe 3x3 or so.

There are a few threads that describe wrapping a squirrel like a burrito (or "squirrelito") -- you could try searching and should find them. (One was Schnuffel's first thread.)

[StringTheory]

A "receiving blanket" is a baby blanket -- i.e., small and lightweight. A piece of fleece would work too, maybe 3x3 or so.

There are a few threads that describe wrapping a squirrel like a burrito (or "squirrelito") -- you could try searching and should find them. (One was Schnuffel's first thread.)
That's been my normal approach (with fleece). I'm getting better at it, but it's still tough. Seems like there should be a better way. Little squirrel straitjackets maybe.

[StringTheory]

It really works. I take the nest box out, they back off into the corner and I approach slowly. I think the trick is not making eye contact as that is a very agressive action. It is much less stressful than having to go through the chase and capture everyday.
Perhaps I am a squirrel whisperer?:D
Sounds like it! I've always wondered about the low-level communication that happens between dominant males before a scuffle. They seem to read something that I can't discern. I'll try wearing shades.

[Mars]

First - Keep the babies in a small cage you can reach all parts of. Do not give them a nest box until all meds are completed. Fill the bottom of the cage with plenty of blankets or tee shirts for them to hide under. If the cage can be openned from the top all the better. The idea is to trap the baby under the blankets with one hand and move only enough towels to administer the meds. The squirrel need never be removed from the cage.

The other method uses a deep storage bin. I use this for chippies. I put a heavy towel on the bottom of the bin. I put/keep a cardboard tunnel in the chippies cage. When they hide in the tunnel I block both ends and move them that way. Put one end under the towel and gently scoot chippie out and under towel. Then you can capture and again just move away only enough of the towel to do what you need to do. Chippie is returned to cage by reverse method or by just bundling in the towel.

Hope this helps. :)

[StringTheory]

The other method uses a deep storage bin. I use this for chippies. I put a heavy towel on the bottom of the bin. I put/keep a cardboard tunnel in the chippies cage. When they hide in the tunnel I block both ends and move them that way. Put one end under the towel and gently scoot chippie out and under towel. Then you can capture and again just move away only enough of the towel to do what you need to do. Chippie is returned to cage by reverse method or by just bundling in the towel.

Hope this helps. :)
Very good. Thanks, Mars.

A variant on the chippy thing works for adult squirrels. Small plastic pet carrier inside the main cage. Coax them into the pet carrier and close the door. Easier to just keep the top of the carrier clipped instead of bolting it down (many do have easy-release fasteners, so fastening just two of those would work).

I guess the technique of using a small cloth to wrap them up is as good as it gets, if that's what the veterans are doing. I'll post if I find anything else that works.