Help Needed

[smokey joe]

Hello! I found this forum last week while researching mbd. What you people do here is just amazing!! A poor squirrel was found in a burning log at the town dump so we rescued him, or so we thought. Unfortunately, something we never knew existed has Seriously harmed our Smokey joe. I believe he's about 10-12 weeks old. Last Thursday morning we found his back legs and trail paralysed. Found your forum and started treatments immediately. Ordered the blocks, calcium, sunlight... We read everything and tried everything. It's only been 4 days but his back legs and tail do not move at all still. My question is, am I expecting too much too soon? It's breaking our hearts to see him like this. We had really good intentions since we know that if we didn't pull him out of that burning log he definitely would have died but now it seems we've done more harm than good. He was so sweet and playful and now he can't move. Any advice at all is welcomed!! Wish I knew then what I know now.

[LR]

Smokey Joe please post your emergency in Life Threatening Emergencyfor more eyes to see it.

[Chickenlegs]

Could be it's not MBD but something else. Do you have a vet who will see him? There are folks here who have vets who may help--depends on where you are. A paralyzed squirrel can live a very happy life--just depends on diet and the loving care of his people. My Scooter has been paralyzed since he was five weeks old. He is "da boz" and lives large and well. If he was a wild youngster, seems MBD would be unlikely. Does he pee and poop on his own? I am forever grateful you saved him. I'm sure there will be folks with MBD experience (and maybe a vet) here to advise soon.

[Nancy in New York]

Hello! I found this forum last week while researching mbd. What you people do here is just amazing!! A poor squirrel was found in a burning log at the town dump so we rescued him, or so we thought. Unfortunately, something we never knew existed has Seriously harmed our Smokey joe. I believe he's about 10-12 weeks old. Last Thursday morning we found his back legs and trail paralysed. Found your forum and started treatments immediately. Ordered the blocks, calcium, sunlight... We read everything and tried everything. It's only been 4 days but his back legs and tail do not move at all still. My question is, am I expecting too much too soon? It's breaking our hearts to see him like this. We had really good intentions since we know that if we didn't pull him out of that burning log he definitely would have died but now it seems we've done more harm than good. He was so sweet and playful and now he can't move. Any advice at all is welcomed!! Wish I knew then what I know now.

What are you feeding him?
Are you giving him formula?
Could he have taken a fall.
Did this come on suddenly?
Does he have free roam?
If not, how tall is his cage?

Edit: Do you have Prednisone, metacam, gabepentin, or infant ibuprofen?
Do you have a weight on him?

[smokey joe]

Could be it's not MBD but something else. Do you have a vet who will see him? There are folks here who have vets who may help--depends on where you are. A paralyzed squirrel can live a very happy life--just depends on diet and the loving care of his people. My Scooter has been paralyzed since he was five weeks old. He is "da boz" and lives large and well. If he was a wild youngster, seems MBD would be unlikely. Does he pee and poop on his own? I am forever grateful you saved him. I'm sure there will be folks with MBD experience (and maybe a vet) here to advise soon.

in Illinois I was told that it is illegal to own a squirrel so I haven't tried a vet. i'd take any advice though!

[smokey joe]

What are you feeding him?
Are you giving him formula?
Could he have taken a fall.
Did this come on suddenly?
Does he have free roam?
If not, how tall is his cage?

Edit: Do you have Prednisone, metacam, gabepentin, or infant ibuprofen?
Do you have a weight on him?



no to the formula. we tried the puppy formula but he refused. he could have taken a fall of about 5 feet while we were away for 20 minutes. we found him on the carpeted floor. it came on very suddenly. He has free roam of his room when we are in there and that is very often and his cage is 8ft tall, 8 ft wide, and 3 ft deep. its built like a squirrells disney land.

[smokey joe]

we are feeding him green vegies... kale, brocolli, peas etc. we've removed all traces of peanuts and seeds. also he gets squirrel blocks but henrys blocks will be here on wed

[smokey joe]

Could be it's not MBD but something else. Do you have a vet who will see him? There are folks here who have vets who may help--depends on where you are. A paralyzed squirrel can live a very happy life--just depends on diet and the loving care of his people. My Scooter has been paralyzed since he was five weeks old. He is "da boz" and lives large and well. If he was a wild youngster, seems MBD would be unlikely. Does he pee and poop on his own? I am forever grateful you saved him. I'm sure there will be folks with MBD experience (and maybe a vet) here to advise soon.


He was a silly squirrel when we left his room for no more than 20 minutes and when we came back, it was just so sad and hard to see.

[CritterMom]

It sounds like a fall.

Do you have access to ANY of the meds Nancy asked you about?

[smokey joe]

gabapentin i do and tramadol. i plan on getting infant ibuprofen tomorrow

[cava]

Is this room squirrel proofed? Could he have gotten into something toxic, chewed an electrical cord, etc?

Once you have a young squirrel you begin to realize how dangerous a human environment can be.

I suggest you put him in housing with lots of soft fleece on the bottom and no way to climb on anything. A deep plastic clear bin is ideal. I purchased a 5/8" drill bit and drilled numerous holes on the lid and around the top of mine.

Please give his weight so we can give you a dose for pain management. You are also going to have to weigh him daily now that he is injured to be sure he isn't losing weight due to inability to eat (or lack of desire). These guys are amazing healers but in the mean time you must provide a healthy diet conducive to healing and minimize excessive handling. Make sure he is urinating and defecating on his own or you must stimulate him. Spinal injuries often involve bowel and bladder.

You may have to syringe feed water to maintain hydration, especially if he can't ambulate to a dish or hanging water bottle.

Give him time and rest. Place a heating pad on low under 1/4-1/2 the bin. Make sure he doesn't get too hot, especially if he can't move away from the heat. Keep his bin in a warm room away from drafts with quiet, not bright lighting, like your bedroom or other low traffic area. He's also be close while you guys sleep.

[smokey joe]

He was a silly squirrel when we left his room for no more than 20 minutes and when we came back, it was just so sad and hard to see.

he does pee and poop on his own but there seems to be no control because he goes on himself. he hates that so we clean him often. Over the past 2 days his appetite has increased, he is more responsive and alert than he was Thursday, Friday and Saturday, He can lift his head now and his front legs are doing better, although, his front paws remain in a curled position and he has a hard time grabbing things with them or scratching his face. That was the good news.

Bad news. Seems to have a tight lump to the left of his penis that doesnt feel normal (i dont know what normal is though. He doesnt cry like he did the first few days but seems frustrated when he tries to pull himself up. He tires easily and sleeps alot. He doesn't play like he did. We give him many massages and exercizes with his legs, feet, belly etc. I can tell he loves belly/chest rubs so we do that a lot too.

[Nancy in New York]

gabapentin i do and tramadol. i plan on getting infant ibuprofen tomorrow

We well need a weight on him in grams to dose any meds.
We will also need the strength/mg of the Gabapentin and the tramadol.
Can you check around for anyone that may have Prednisone OR Metacam.
These two drugs are actually the best for relieving swelling.

[smokey joe]

Is this room squirrel proofed? Could he have gotten into something toxic, chewed an electrical cord, etc?

Once you have a young squirrel you begin to realize how dangerous a human environment can be.

I suggest you put him in housing with lots of soft fleece on the bottom and no way to climb on anything. A deep plastic clear bin is ideal. I purchased a 5/8" drill bit and drilled numerous holes on the lid and around the top of mine.

Please give his weight so we can give you a dose for pain management. You are also going to have to weigh him daily now that he is injured to be sure he isn't losing weight due to inability to eat (or lack of desire). These guys are amazing healers but in the mean time you must provide a healthy diet conducive to healing and minimize excessive handling. Make sure he is urinating and defecating on his own or you must stimulate him. Spinal injuries often involve bowel and bladder.

You may have to syringe feed water to maintain hydration, especially if he can't ambulate to a dish or hanging water bottle.

Give him time and rest. Place a heating pad on low under 1/4-1/2 the bin. Make sure he doesn't get too hot, especially if he can't move away from the heat. Keep his bin in a warm room away from drafts with quiet, not bright lighting, like your bedroom or other low traffic area. He's also be close while you guys sleep.



squirrel proofed room yes. not possible that he could get into anything harmful in his room. since the "incident" he hasnt left our side, He has a comfy basket with pillows and fleece to sleep in and he couldnt get out if he tried. He now sleeps in his basket next to our bed and he loves falling asleep on my husbands chest! He is a big warm bear to Smokey, His weight? I will work on that very soon, he is sleeping. He he seems to drink and eat well .

[smokey joe]

We well need a weight on him in grams to dose any meds.
We will also need the strength/mg of the Gabapentin and the tramadol.
Can you check around for anyone that may have Prednisone OR Metacam.
These two drugs are actually the best for relieving swelling.

i have a regular scale, will that work?

[cava]

Weight in grams but can figure out grams if you get an accurate weight in ounces.

[smokey joe]

Weight in grams but can figure out grams if you get an accurate weight in ounces.


I put him on our regular bathroom scale and the bar didnt move at all

[smokey joe]

We well need a weight on him in grams to dose any meds.
We will also need the strength/mg of the Gabapentin and the tramadol.
Can you check around for anyone that may have Prednisone OR Metacam.
These two drugs are actually the best for relieving swelling.


gabapentin is 100mg capsuls and tramadol is 50 mg tablets

[Nancy in New York]

Do you know of anyone that may have a kitchen food scale,
or a postage scale?
Like cava said we will convert to grams if you only have one that weighs ounces.

[smokey joe]

Unfortunately, no

[Nancy in New York]

Can you post a picture?
There's not much margin when dosing these drugs,
so I'm not even sure a photo would help.
BUT we would still love to see your little one.

Places like Walmart or Bed Bath and Beyond would sell these scales.

[Chickenlegs]

I'm in Iowa. i can send Meloxicam but the sooner he gets meds for inflamation, the better. If I overnight the Meloxicam tomorrow it likely wouldn't get to you until Wednesday. What do you think, Nancy?

[Nancy in New York]

I'm in Iowa. i can send Meloxicam but the sooner he gets meds for inflamation, the better. If I overnight the Meloxicam tomorrow it likely wouldn't get to you until Wednesday. What do you think, Nancy?

Well the gabapentin and Meloxicam/Metacam is what worked for Harvey.
Now he's getting the hang of release.
What a wonderful offer chickenlegs.

[Nancy in New York]

smokey joe this is my little Harvey from last year.
He was totally paralyzed in his upper body.
My vet put him on Gagapentin and Metacam and he
has fully recovered and is in the process of being released.:w00t


The day I got Harvey
VIDEO

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-j2VzjTF/0/de0843b0/640/i-j2VzjTF-640.mp4

This past July
VIDEO

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-bdBv93K/0/9631496d/640/i-bdBv93K-640.mp4

[Chickenlegs]

Pm your address if you want the Meloxicam

[smokey joe]

I can't get a weight because I only have a regular scale. He's pretty small though and doesn't register on this scale. Any suggestions on the meds? I have gabapentin and tramadol and I will pick up infant ibuprofen tomorrow

[smokey joe]

Pm your address if you want the Meloxicam

I'm so sorry, for some reason my page want refreshing.

[kearnest]

Smokey Joe. You might think I'm crazy, but with the calcium and squirrel blocks and much prayer, yes PRAYER!, my Grace recovered completely in 3 days. Those are not typical results, but prayer changes things. They say it can take just as long to recover them as it took to get them that way.

[Nancy in New York]

I'm so sorry, for some reason my page want refreshing.

I took your address off the board and will forward it to chickenlegs.

[Nancy in New York]

PLEASE get a scale that we can weigh him with.
We CANNOT dose the drugs without a weight.
The Tramadol and Gabepentin could be helping him NOW if we only had a weight.

If this is some sort of injury, time is of the essence to get any swelling down.

[Nancy in New York]

How long have you had this little one?
If it hasn't been long, then I would rule out MBD, because most
likely he was getting what he needed from his mom.
BUT this is a vulnerable age if he was not fed formula and
the diet wasn't good.

CAN YOU POST A PICTURE?

[Nancy in New York]

I'm so sorry, for some reason my page want refreshing.

Hit your refresh button every so often.
Also at the bottom, make sure you are on the last
page. Some people get stuck no page 1 not realizing that
there are other posts on their thread,
that may carry it over to page 2, and so on.

[LR]

If you are on your phone go to the top of the page and tap on "What's New" on the left hand side in white letters. To pm someone means to send a private message.

[smokey joe]

Baby Mokey (Sir Smokey Joe)

[LR]

Sorry, had to go out and make sure I was getting ready to give you the right directions. After you tap Whats new it will refresh all messages. Scroll down till you see your thread Help Needed and it will show any thing new that has been added to it.

To send a private message go back to the top of the page about three quarters of the way across and tap "Profile". When the profile page comes up go to the left hand side of the page under where a picture would be and you will see " send private message" tap on it and it will open a page for your message.

[smokey joe]

How long have you had this little one?
If it hasn't been long, then I would rule out MBD, because most
likely he was getting what he needed from his mom.
BUT this is a vulnerable age if he was not fed formula and
the diet wasn't good.

CAN YOU POST A PICTURE?

Hello Nancy,

We found this little guy on Aug 27th. REFUSED formula everyday for the first 2 weeks. He came from a dump fire. My husband kicked over a log and he came running out in a blaze of smoke (Thus his name). Ran up my husbands leg and we cared for him since. No mother or siblings at the dump. No bodies either (He checked for almost an hour)


No, his diet was crap. Smokey ate nuts, seeds, corn, snap peas but would shred broc.

[smokey joe]

PLEASE get a scale that we can weigh him with.
We CANNOT dose the drugs without a weight.
The Tramadol and Gabepentin could be helping him NOW if we only had a weight.

If this is some sort of injury, time is of the essence to get any swelling down.

I have a scale coming tomorrow.

[cava]

You can buy a kitchen scale at Walmart and they are open right now.

[smokey joe]

heading there now. Be back in about an hour.

THANKS TO ALL OF YOU SO MUCH!!!!!!!

[Nancy in New York]

Hello Nancy,

We found this little guy on Aug 27th. REFUSED formula everyday for the first 2 weeks. He came from a dump fire. My husband kicked over a log and he came running out in a blaze of smoke (Thus his name). Ran up my husbands leg and we cared for him since. No mother or siblings at the dump. No bodies either (He checked for almost an hour)


No, his diet was crap. Smokey ate nuts, seeds, corn, snap peas but would shred broc.

OK, thank you for being so honest. Now we have to start the MBD protocol asap.
Do you have tums?
Let me get the link to the protocol and I will post just the first steps
that you must follow tonight.

[Nancy in New York]

Here a link to the MBD Protocol.

https://thesquirrelboard.com/forums/showthread.php?32122-MBD-Treatment

This is how you start:

Emergency Treatment for MBD

Get calcium into the squirrel IMMEDIATELY, not later, not tomorrow, NOW.
Delaying treatment can cause death or permanent paralysis.

You will need:

Tums, rolaids, or calcium supplement (any kind)*
a syringe or spoon


Crush one pill and add a little water or fruit juice to make a toothpaste consistency. Use a syringe or spoon to force-feed the mixture.

After you give the initial dose of calcium, give 100 mg every 4 hours (50 mg for smaller squirrels such as red squirrels, flyers, or juveniles less than 12 weeks old). The first day, getting calcium dosed quickly is more important than the type of calcium or the amount. Going forward, most squirrels will need around 500 mg per day (250 mg for small squirrels). See the “Long-Term Treatment for MBD.”

*Any kind of calcium pill is okay for the first dose, and you can use Tums for a few days, but long-term it's best to use plain calcium carbonate (without Vit D).

[Nancy in New York]

FROM 4skwerlz
You need to find what the elemental calcium is on the tums you get.
When we suggest giving X amount of calcium,
it's elemental that we're talking about.




Hi everyone,
Tums has changed some of their dosing and labeling. What it says on the label may NOT be what you think! Below is a sort of pictorial guide to the actual elemental calcium contained in the new Tums formulas. NOTE: People may have older versions of Tums, which might have different labeling/dosing, so check carefully and have them read the back label, including what the serving size is. The amount of elemental calcium listed on the back may well be for either ONE or TWO tablets.

249584 Contains 200 mg calcium per tablet


249585 Contains 300 mg calcium per tablet


249586 Contains 400 mg calcium per tablet

Back label for Tums Regular:
249588

Back label for Tums Extra 750:
249589

Back label for Tums Ultra 1000:
249587

[smokey joe]

Yes. We had him on tums 1000mg for the first 3 days. Now he's on calcium 600mg with calcium carbonate. So far he's taking it like a champ. The tums were another story. Little doses every 3 hours. No nuts nor seeds since Thursday. Broccoli, snap peas, kale, and mushrooms. He's very picky

[Nancy in New York]

Yes. We had him on tums 1000mg for the first 3 days. Now he's on calcium 600mg with calcium carbonate. So far he's taking it like a champ. The tums were another story. Little doses every 3 hours. No nuts nor seeds since Thursday. Broccoli, snap peas, kale, and mushrooms. He's very picky

Oh perfect. Have you noticed any change?
As crappy as his diet was, we still aren't 100% sure MBD
is his problem. So I would like to start him on Tramadol
and Gabapentin. chickenlegs is sending the Metacam overnight.
We cannot give him ibuporfen if he is going to be taking Metacam/Meloxicam,
so not to worry about getting that tomorrow. We will give him Tramadol
for pain once we get a weight.

[smokey joe]

Yes, noted positive changes per his mother (my husband)

Increased appeitite
Urinates and poops
More alert and stays awake a little longer
Drinks and eats well ( but he's picky)
No crying unless he is trying to pull himself up to hide.

The not so good news
No movement in back legs or tail
Seems like a lump to the left of his pocket rocket. Tight mass ( paranoia??)

[Nancy in New York]

Yes, noted positive changes per his mother (my husband)

Increased appeitite
Urinates and poops
More alert and stays awake a little longer
Drinks and eats well ( but he's picky)
No crying unless he is trying to pull himself up to hide.

The not so good news
No movement in back legs or tail
Seems like a lump to the left of his pocket rocket. Tight mass ( paranoia??)

Is he sensitive in that area?
He's pooping alright, correct?
Glad that he's responding to the MBD treatment.
When they have MBD they are very achey.
Can you put a heating pad under half the container he's in
and set it on low?

I will be going off line for a while, but I'm sure that others will
be on to answer your questions. :w00t

[cava]

Have his testes descended? Can you post a photo of the bulge?

[smokey joe]

237 grams. We have infants Motrin. Should we give him that?

[smokey joe]

Is he sensitive in that area?
He's pooping alright, correct?
Glad that he's responding to the MBD treatment.
When they have MBD they are very achey.
Can you put a heating pad under half the container he's in
and set it on low?

I will be going off line for a while, but I'm sure that others will
be on to answer your questions. :w00t

Yes. No issues pooping or urinating.

He does sleep with a heating pad on low.

[LR]

No. No Motrin if they are going to start him on Tramadol.

[cava]

Oh, I didn't see that they were starting Tramadol. Tramadol is for pain, Motrin will treat inflammation thereby reducing pain. Choose one or the other please.

[LR]

Sorry. It's because of the Meloxicam. Look at Nancy's last coupe of posts.

[cava]

That makes much more sense, Lynn.:blowkiss

Yes, you cannot give two NSAIDs at the same time. Do not give Ibuprofen if you are already giving Meloxicam.

Edit: I deleted the dosing info for ibuprofen

[smokey joe]

Have his testes descended? Can you post a photo of the bulge?

The pen is pointing at the lump. He's 237 grams just weighed.

[cava]

I'm sorry, I can't really tell what's there. On a side note, wash and dry his skin and fur when he potties on himself, otherwise he'll get skin breakdown and sores and you'll have a whole other thing to handle. Warm water and fluff dry with a dry washcloth should suffice. Keep him warm.

He sure is a handsome fella!:Love_Icon:Love_Icon

[stepnstone]

We well need a weight on him in grams to dose any meds.
We will also need the strength/mg of the Gabapentin and the tramadol.
Can you check around for anyone that may have Prednisone OR Metacam.
These two drugs are actually the best for relieving swelling.

Prednisone often used by those with asthma and most keep it on hand,
do you friends or family know anybody like that you can call?

[smokey joe]

Prednisone often used by those with asthma and most keep it on hand,
do you friends or family know anybody like that you can call?

Unfortunately no. I do have infant motrum, tramadol, and gabapentin though

[smokey joe]

Any suggestions on these meds? He's. 237 grams. Thanks!

[smokey joe]

I'm sorry, I can't really tell what's there. On a side note, wash and dry his skin and fur when he potties on himself, otherwise he'll get skin breakdown and sores and you'll have a whole other thing to handle. Warm water and fluff dry with a dry washcloth should suffice. Keep him warm.

He sure is a handsome fella!:Love_Icon:Love_Icon

Just had a bath and looks relaxed

[smokey joe]

He seems to be bloated. It's not always that full so just not sure if this is normal

[smokey joe]

Smokey Joe. You might think I'm crazy, but with the calcium and squirrel blocks and much prayer, yes PRAYER!, my Grace recovered completely in 3 days. Those are not typical results, but prayer changes things. They say it can take just as long to recover them as it took to get them that way.

I completely agree with you and believe me, we have been praying all weekend! Thank you and please, keep this little guy in your prayers!!

[smokey joe]

smokey joe this is my little Harvey from last year.
He was totally paralyzed in his upper body.
My vet put him on Gagapentin and Metacam and he
has fully recovered and is in the process of being released.:w00t


The day I got Harvey
VIDEO

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-j2VzjTF/0/de0843b0/640/i-j2VzjTF-640.mp4

This past July
VIDEO

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-bdBv93K/0/9631496d/640/i-bdBv93K-640.mp4


Absolutely incredible!! And bless you for doing that!

[LR]

Did the tramadol and Gabapentin get dosed?

[LR]

Looks like still waiting on medication strength

[Nancy in New York]

No. No Motrin if they are going to start him on Tramadol.

Oh we are starting him on Meloxicam day after tomorrow.
He can have infant ibuprofen tonight and tomorrow up until around 6:00 pm
The meloxicam should be there probably by 6:00 on the 12th since
chickenlegs is going to overnight it to them.:w00t
We can actually give Tramadol and infant Motrin together, but I think
for the inflammation we should go with motrin tonight.
I will send the dose a pm

[Nancy in New York]

Any suggestions on these meds? He's. 237 grams. Thanks!

I sent dosing for infant ibuprofen.
We will stop that on 10/10 at 6:00 pm as the Meloxicam should
be there on 10/11.

[Nancy in New York]

He seems to be bloated. It's not always that full so just not sure if this is normal

Yes he does look bloated. Hmmmm curious.
You can give him a couple of drops of gas x.
Is his tummy hard or does it feel like a water balloon?

[smokey joe]

Yes he does look bloated. Hmmmm curious.
You can give him a couple of drops of gas x.
Is his tummy hard or does it feel like a water balloon?

We will definitely try that! Thank you!. His tummy doesn't always look that bloated but when it is it's pretty tight. Looks uncomfortable but he doesn't fuss much over it

[Nancy in New York]

I will dose the Tramadol and the Gabapentin, but FIRST go to the drug
store and ask for a 1 mL syringe. See if they have a dosing syringe.
Tell them that you need to dose a small pet rat. Do not mention a squirrel.
We need that to dose accurately.
I explained how to dose the infant iburprofen from a dropper,
but that has a pretty wide "margin of error".
But these other drugs don't.
Drop the infant ibuprofen down to about the size of a capital O, which
will be ~ 1-2 small drops from the dropper, ok?

[smokey joe]

I will dose the Tramadol and the Gabapentin, but FIRST go to the drug
store and ask for a 1 mL syringe. See if they have a dosing syringe.
Tell them that you need to dose a small pet rat. Do not mention a squirrel.
We need that to dose accurately.
I explained how to dose the infant iburprofen from a dropper,
but that has a pretty wide "margin of error".
But these other drugs don't.
Drop the infant ibuprofen down to about the size of a capital O, which
will be ~ 1-2 small drops from the dropper, ok?

Ok, thanks! I'll get one as soon as I can today.

[CritterMom]

We will definitely try that! Thank you!. His tummy doesn't always look that bloated but when it is it's pretty tight. Looks uncomfortable but he doesn't fuss much over it

Is it possible that whatever is causing the paralysis - IT is causing him to have issues pooping? Are you seeing normal amounts? This CAN happen.

[smokey joe]

Is it possible that whatever is causing the paralysis - IT is causing him to have issues pooping? Are you seeing normal amounts? This CAN happen.

Seems to be ok with the pooping

[smokey joe]

Ok, thanks! I'll get one as soon as I can today.

Got the dropper !!!

[smokey joe]

Ok, thanks! I'll get one as soon as I can today.

Got the dropper !

[Chickenlegs]

Meloxicam was sent express before noon today. Post person said the guaranteed delivery day is the 12th tho it can get there tomorrow--something about the size of the town. She DID say it will be on the way TODAY--the 10th. I do have a question. He pees right? Can you express his bladder to make sure ALL the pee is getting out. Scooter sometimes retains urine and when he gets a bath, I express just to make sure he's empty. Sometimes he is, and sometimes there's a whole lot of pee. Just wondering if a full bladder can make him look bloated.

[smokey joe]

Meloxicam was sent express before noon today. Post person said the guaranteed delivery day is the 12th tho it can get there tomorrow--something about the size of the town. She DID say it will be on the way TODAY--the 10th. I do have a question. He pees right? Can you express his bladder to make sure ALL the pee is getting out. Scooter sometimes retains urine and when he gets a bath, I express just to make sure he's empty. Sometimes he is, and sometimes there's a whole lot of pee. Just wondering if a full bladder can make him look bloated.

THANK YOU!! He seems to pee ok but i will try that tonight when he gets his bath. You people are wonderful!! I miss my funny little squirrel. Breaks my heart to see this. Thank you again. Im definitely open to ANY suggestions!!!

[cava]

Meloxicam was sent express before noon today. Post person said the guaranteed delivery day is the 12th tho it can get there tomorrow--something about the size of the town. She DID say it will be on the way TODAY--the 10th. I do have a question. He pees right? Can you express his bladder to make sure ALL the pee is getting out. Scooter sometimes retains urine and when he gets a bath, I express just to make sure he's empty. Sometimes he is, and sometimes there's a whole lot of pee. Just wondering if a full bladder can make him look bloated.

Really good point and great advice!

[Chickenlegs]

Um--need more pictures!

[Nancy in New York]

Got the dropper !

You mean you have a syringe, correct?
Refresh me again about the strengths of the Gabapentin and the Tramadol,
AND the weight, ok?

[smokey joe]

You mean you have a syringe, correct?
Refresh me again about the strengths of the Gabapentin and the Tramadol,
AND the weight, ok?

Yes, a syringe. The Wal-Mart pharmacy gave me a few of them.

Gabapentin is 100 mg capsules

Tramadol is 50 mg tablets

His weight is 237 grams

[Nancy in New York]

Yes, a syringe. The Wal-Mart pharmacy gave me a few of them.

Gabapentin is 100 mg capsules

Tramadol is 50 mg tablets

His weight is 237 grams

Perfect this will take me a couple of minutes.
Sometimes SmugMug gives me problems when trying
to show the dose on the syringe. :tap

Edit: Dosing sent.

[smokey joe]

smokey joe this is my little Harvey from last year.
He was totally paralyzed in his upper body.
My vet put him on Gagapentin and Metacam and he
has fully recovered and is in the process of being released.:w00t


The day I got Harvey
VIDEO

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-j2VzjTF/0/de0843b0/640/i-j2VzjTF-640.mp4

This past July
VIDEO

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-bdBv93K/0/9631496d/640/i-bdBv93K-640.mp4



Apparently Harvey was good hands! I'm thankful he had you!! We may be a bit weird, I know our families think we are but we don't care. We really just want Smokey to get better. Every day I get more and more bummed that his condition isn't improving. His back legs and tail don't move at all. He sleeps so much more and I haven't seen his "spark" sinceThursday. Honestly Nancy, do you think all this will help? It's been 5 days. We are hopeful but very very worried. Thanks again for everything!! This forum is amazing!

[Nancy in New York]

Apparently Harvey was good hands! I'm thankful he had you!! We may be a bit weird, I know our families think we are but we don't care. We really just want Smokey to get better. Every day I get more and more bummed that his condition isn't improving. His back legs and tail don't move at all. He sleeps so much more and I haven't seen his "spark" sinceThursday. Honestly Nancy, do you think all this will help? It's been 5 days. We are hopeful but very very worried. Thanks again for everything!! This forum is amazing!

Without an x ray we don't know if there is anything broken.
Actually we don't even know the problem. Is it MBD and something else?
I think we are trying to cover all the bases with what we know.
Without a vet this is all guess work, and we are trying to diagnose the symptoms
from your details and our experience.
I so wished that we knew of a safe vet that could look at him.
lennysmom had a little squirrel Ana who was paralyzed in the hind quarters.
We started her on Prednisone but then switched to Gabapentin and Metacam.
She recently posted a recap of Ana's progress for another member, let me go
find the thread with the videos.

[Nancy in New York]

Go to post #31. Scroll past the bin photos and you will see a link to 3 YouTube videos of Ana.
Then go to post #38 of the same thread and you will see her progression with more YouTube video links.
https://thesquirrelboard.com/forums/showthread.php?58601-Ruby-s-Legs/page2

[Diggie's Friend]

In Calif. these animals are illegal to have in captive care, but many still have them, and a number of vets still have agreed to support them. I would put out an SOS on this board for another member with a vet that has agreed to support these animals in captive care. Please DO NOT SHARE this imformation on your thread or anywhere else on this open board. but reply only by PM to any contact you may get.

Your squirrel needs both an exam by a professional and an x-ray of the back.

[smokey joe]

Go to post #31. Scroll past the bin photos and you will see a link to 3 YouTube videos of Ana.
Then go to post #38 of the same thread and you will see her progression with more YouTube video links.
https://thesquirrelboard.com/forums/showthread.php?58601-Ruby-s-Legs/page2

Thank you, that's promising !

[smokey joe]

Sir Smokey Joe is a very picky eater. Can we give him baby food and Apple sauce?

[lennysmom]

Is he still on formula? I had a very picky eater (actually it was Ana referenced in Nancy's post above) that just would not take formula well until I mixed in a little banana baby food. I have also used yobaby vanilla yogurt to add in for picky eaters with success, but Ana would only take it with the baby food mixed in.
You can also use a little baby food with crushed up blocks as well and add in a little applesauce to form balls after he's weaned if he won't eat his blocks well.

I'm glad Ana's videos were encouraging to you.:) I never dreamed she would make as much progress as she did, but these little ones are amazing with their healing ability and determination. I hope little Smokey Joe will have similar success in recovery.:Love_Icon

[smokey joe]

[QUOTE=lennysmom;1240038]Is he still on formula? I had a very picky eater (actually it was Ana referenced in Nancy's post above) that just would not take formula well until I mixed in a little banana baby food. I have also used yobaby vanilla yogurt to add in for picky eaters with success, but Ana would only take it with the baby food mixed in.
You can also use a little baby food with crushed up blocks as well and add in a little applesauce to form balls after he's weaned if he won't eat his blocks well.

I'm glad Ana's videos were encouraging to you.:) I never dreamed she would make as much progress as she did, but these little ones are amazing with their healing ability and determination. I hope little Smokey Joe will have similar success in recovery.:Love_Icon[/QUOTE

You people are a gift from God. He never was ok with formula. We think he's around 10-12 weeks old. He doesn't eat much since we stopped the seeds, nuts and corn. We have vegetable, yogurt and fruit baby food he likes plus we give him his squirrel blocks, he doesn't like those too much bit we're working on that. Just want to be sure baby food and blocks, for the moment, are ok. Wood never forgive myself if we made things worse.

I saw your Anna . She's beautiful. You are so wonderful. Thank you

[lennysmom]

I would try mixing a little baby food and/or applesauce with a crushed up block, just enough to form the mixture into a ball and see if he will eat it that way to encourage him to eat his healthy blocks. What kind of blocks are you giving him?

[smokey joe]

I would try mixing a little baby food and/or applesauce with a crushed up block, just enough to form the mixture into a ball and see if he will eat it that way to encourage him to eat his healthy blocks. What kind of blocks are you giving him?

294709 [ATTACH]294710

We have these two kinds of blocks. Are these ok?. Thanks again!!

[lennysmom]

I don't know anything about the second rodent block you posted a picture of, but that first bag is Harlan Teklad blocks, correct? If so, those are ok to feed if they will eat them. If not, you can always try the Henry's healthy blocks which you can purchase here: www.henryspets.com They are a bit more pricey, but its the only kind I've found that most of my fuzzers would eat and they are made especially for a squirrel's dietary needs.

[smokey joe]

294771
Go to post #31. Scroll past the bin photos and you will see a link to 3 YouTube videos of Ana.
Then go to post #38 of the same thread and you will see her progression with more YouTube video links.
https://thesquirrelboard.com/forums/showthread.php?58601-Ruby-s-Legs/page2

For some reason I can't p m you a picture. These are what I received along with the note. Still learning this forum. Thanks!!!

[Nancy in New York]

294771

For some reason I can't p m you a picture. These are what I received along with the note. Still learning this forum. Thanks!!!

Not to worry, I need to go through a photo site (Smug Mug) and then post a link in my pm otherwise I can't post photos either in a pm.
OK I will double check these pills through pill identifier.
I'm not sure if she means each pill is 15 mg or together they are 15 mg.Can you just refresh me again on the weight of Smokey Joe?

[smokey joe]

Not to worry, I need to go through a photo site (Smug Mug) and then post a link in my pm otherwise I can't post photos either in a pm.
OK I will double check these pills through pill identifier.
I'm not sure if she means each pill is 15 mg or together they are 15 mg.Can you just refresh me again on the weight of Smokey Joe?

237 grams. 😊

[Nancy in New York]

237 grams. ��

Thank you, I will write this up right now, and send it in a pm.
Oh and each pill is 15 mg. Just wanted to double check. :)
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-g7VjwTN/0/c10ba48b/S/i-g7VjwTN-S.jpg

Edit: dosing sent and did adjustment for weight reduction.

[Chickenlegs]

Sorry--thanks for double checking Nancy. Shudda put "15mg EACH!" :embar

[Nancy in New York]

Sorry--thanks for double checking Nancy. Shudda put "15mg EACH!" :embar

Not a problem at all.
Thank you so much for sending this chickenlegs! :blowkiss

[Chickenlegs]

How is Sir Smokey doing?

[smokey joe]

How is Sir Smokey doing?




He started his meds you sent last night. No change yet. He's been on gabapentin for 3 days I think. I keep hoping to see any kind of movement with his tail and legs, no such luck. We want to really really thank you for helping. I didn't know people like you and Nancy and the rest of the forum existed! I'll keep you posted though if anything changes. My heart breaks for this little guy.

[Nancy in New York]

He started his meds you sent last night. No change yet. He's been on gabapentin for 3 days I think. I keep hoping to see any kind of movement with his tail and legs, no such luck. We want to really really thank you for helping. I didn't know people like you and Nancy and the rest of the forum existed! I'll keep you posted though if anything changes. My heart breaks for this little guy.

When Harvey was put on these drugs, my vet said that if I saw no improvement in 2 weeks, most
likely they wouldn't help. You have a ways to go, so lets keep our fingers crossed and say a lot of
prayers that this helps. :hug

[Chickenlegs]

I'm thinkin pretty soon some physical therapy might keep his legs strong. I know if there's injury you don't want to start PT until whatever was injured is mended but then neuro issues need stimulus as soon as possible. Lilidukes has used water therapy with outstanding success. If you PM your phone number I bet she would help in any way she can. She works nights on weekends but I bet she will be glad to offer any advice she has at a time that fits both of your schedules. Does he use his front legs? My Scooter has very limited use of his back legs but boy o boy those front legs take him where he wants to go as fast as any squirrel on all fours.

[Chickenlegs]

I was talking tonight to a friend who had a fire baby (Betsy). She wondered how long ago SJ was rescued from the burning log as smoke inhalation can seriously damage lungs and not enough oxygen can cause other neurological problems. This is just tossed into the ring because apparently smoke inhalation can take a week or more to show up and if the lungs were actually burned they would weep--and that's moisture in lungs and that's aspiration pneumonia and that would need antibiotics. Just mentioning this as Betsy asked how long since he was exposed to the smoke from the fire. Please don't stop what you're doing. Just asking because Smokey Joe should have every base covered. He's getting plenty of hydration right?

[Chickenlegs]

How's your boy this evening?

[smokey joe]

How's your boy this evening?

Sorry, been a busy weekend. Well, his good news is today has been his best day since " The Day". He's actually been awake a lot today and even tried dragging himself instead of just laying like a pile of pudding. He's eating really good... We ordered Henry's blocks and the mbd emergency kit. He loves them. Still no movement at all from back legs and trail but his eyes show he is feeling better. He had been a lot more alert and sassy when he doesn't get what he wants so that's awesome. We are trying to pack him full of the things we got from Henry's and it's working at the moment although I know he'd rather have a nut lol. He's also driving my husband crazy with the new found independence.

I haven't gotten a hold of Lisa yet, just a lot going on. He's really really bony and he tires so easily. I think a few more days of healing before we push anything else?

[Chickenlegs]

Good to hear he's perking up. Lisa asked about him. How far are you from Iowa? We cross into Iowa at Berlington. Give that boy a smooch for me. Don't forget to make sure his bladder is empty. Can he move his front legs?

[smokey joe]

Good to hear he's perking up. Lisa asked about him. How far are you from Iowa? We cross into Iowa at Berlington. Give that boy a smooch for me. Don't forget to make sure his bladder is empty. Can he move his front legs?

We've been to Davenport a few times. That's about an hour away. He can move his front legs but his digits don't work really good yet. They are getting better, but his hands stay curled a lot. Better than a few days ago but not what I was paying for. Patience, I know. He's just so stinking cute and I love when he gets an attitude

[Chickenlegs]

I had an injured squirrel whose hands curled. I rubbed cocoanut oil on my hands and massaged his fingers from wrist to fingertips. He LOVED it and it helped his hands stay flexable and open. I have every hope SJ will recover but hand massages are ALWAYS nice! Yet another way to spoil him!

[Nancy in New York]

We've been to Davenport a few times. That's about an hour away. He can move his front legs but his digits don't work really good yet. They are getting better, but his hands stay curled a lot. Better than a few days ago but not what I was paying for. Patience, I know. He's just so stinking cute and I love when he gets an attitude

Every time you post, it's crystal clear just how much you love this little guy of yours! :Love_Icon

[smokey joe]

I had an injured squirrel whose hands curled. I rubbed cocoanut oil on my hands and massaged his fingers from wrist to fingertips. He LOVED it and it helped his hands stay flexable and open. I have every hope SJ will recover but hand massages are ALWAYS nice! Yet another way to spoil him!

Nice!! We spoil him every chance we get with body messages and exercising his little limbs but I will definitely try that with the oil !!

[Chickenlegs]

How is that boy doing?

[smokey joe]

How is that boy doing?

Hello!! Thanks for checking in. He really had a rough week, we really didn't think he would make it much longer. We're doing everything we can. We read everything, try everything. Today we saw the first real spark in his eyes. He's awake more already than he had been and today was the first day in over a week that he attempted to chew on a branch. Keeping our fingers crossed but still rely skinny, tires easy and nothing in his back legs or tail. We are going to call your friend soon and start on really physical therapy. Also, he ate two blocks already today so we did the "yay smoke!!" Dance lol. He hasn't eaten much of anything all week so ths is exciting. Oh, we got some meal worms and crickets and he is obsessed with them... Can he have those every day?

[CritterMom]

Hello!! Thanks for checking in. He really had a rough week, we really didn't think he would make it much longer. We're doing everything we can. We read everything, try everything. Today we saw the first real spark in his eyes. He's awake more already than he had been and today was the first day in over a week that he attempted to chew on a branch. Keeping our fingers crossed but still rely skinny, tires easy and nothing in his back legs or tail. We are going to call your friend soon and start on really physical therapy. Also, he ate two blocks already today so we did the "yay smoke!!" Dance lol. He hasn't eaten much of anything all week so ths is exciting. Oh, we got some meal worms and crickets and he is obsessed with them... Can he have those every day?

The insects aren't good if he has MBD. It is the ratio of calcium to phosphorus in the diet that causes - and then cures - MBD. The ideal is 2 parts of calcium to 1 part phosphorus. Insects are extremely high in phosphorus, so that is cancelling out a bunch of the calcium in his system.

Does or can he get any direct sunshine? Not through a window or screen, but out in the sun in a cage for a few minutes every day? I am wondering if he needs some additional vitamin D to process the calcium in his system. He is getting some through the blocks - I am sorry - I haven't gone back - are they the Henry's HHB blocks?

[smokey joe]

The insects aren't good if he has MBD. It is the ratio of calcium to phosphorus in the diet that causes - and then cures - MBD. The ideal is 2 parts of calcium to 1 part phosphorus. Insects are extremely high in phosphorus, so that is cancelling out a bunch of the calcium in his system.

Does or can he get any direct sunshine? Not through a window or screen, but out in the sun in a cage for a few minutes every day? I am wondering if he needs some additional vitamin D to process the calcium in his system. He is getting some through the blocks - I am sorry - I haven't gone back - are they the Henry's HHB blocks?


Thanks for the information. So many web sites contradict each other. He gets about 10-20 minutes of sun a few times a day when the weather is nice, which it has been. We take him out on the back porch, he seems to enjoy it. On cloudy/rainy days we got him two full spectrum lights from Amazon called reptisun by zoo med. He gets that about 10 minutes a few times a day. I did order Henry's blocks and the emergency mbd package. That had protein and vitamins along with picky eater blocks and calcium. Until today, he didn't want much of anything. He seems hungry today though and that's great

[CritterMom]

Well, I have a flyer and they need to have the bugs - I feed wax worms. Like most flyer folk, I dust them in calcium powder before feeding. That is to help counteract the phosphorus. They are one of those things that are both good and bad! If we can get Smokey past this and healthy, they can be something he can have as a treat.

If you can get him consuming the Henry's blocks that will be a big step forward too.

[Chickenlegs]

I'm tickled Smokey is showing some healing is going on. He's EATING :bliss:bliss And he's eating the good stuff. Lisa works nights on weekends. I guess you can try her today and give her a time to call back. I have a big ol goofy grin after hearing Smokes is BETTER!

[smokey joe]

I'm tickled Smokey is showing some healing is going on. He's EATING :bliss:bliss And he's eating the good stuff. Lisa works nights on weekends. I guess you can try her today and give her a time to call back. I have a big ol goofy grin after hearing Smokes is BETTER!


Well. Interesting how fast things change with sir Smokey. Two days ago he was hardly moving at all, hardly eating, and sleeping a lot. Then there's today, he is not ok with being cooped up. Stubborn squirrel wants to show he's feeling better lol. He gets his nails stuck constantly and his back end doesn't work but he thinks he can just do everything he did before. We have been arguing with him all day but he usually wins. Looking for ideas on how to let him be independent without giving us heart attacks. Also is there any way to tell if this is permanent? Thanks!

[lennysmom]

Well. Interesting how fast things change with sir Smokey. Two days ago he was hardly moving at all, hardly eating, and sleeping a lot. Then there's today, he is not ok with being cooped up. Stubborn squirrel wants to show he's feeling better lol. He gets his nails stuck constantly and his back end doesn't work but he thinks he can just do everything he did before. We have been arguing with him all day but he usually wins. Looking for ideas on how to let him be independent without giving us heart attacks. Also is there any way to tell if this is permanent? Thanks!

What I did with Ana when she really struggled like that with mobility was to put her in my bathroom with the door shut and blankets spread on the floor so she could bury stuff in them. I also added some different objects for her to climb on that were small enough where she couldn't injure herself climbing on them. Its hard to say at this point for sure if he will be this way permanently, or if he will gain more mobility. Ana slowly improved with her mobility over the course of a few months. Its amazing how much these little ones can learn to compensate for their handicaps.:Love_Icon

[smokey joe]

What I did with Ana when she really struggled like that with mobility was to put her in my bathroom with the door shut and blankets spread on the floor so she could bury stuff in them. I also added some different objects for her to climb on that were small enough where she couldn't injure herself climbing on them. Its hard to say at this point for sure if he will be this way permanently, or if he will gain more mobility. Ana slowly improved with her mobility over the course of a few months. Its amazing how much these little ones can learn to compensate for their handicaps.:Love_Icon



Well, unfortunately, there's still no change with Smokey's back legs and tail 😟. No movement at all back there. However, he is very alert these last few days. He loves Henry's blocks but that's all he'll eat, he literally throws broccoli and other vegetables at me 😹. He is a stubborn squirrel. He loves my husband but he's been a little mean to me. He has bitten me 4 times this week and two of those times he drew blood. So I don't think I'm his favorite person right now. He has never bitten anyone before so that makes me sad. His sassy attitude is back and I think he gets really frustrated when he can't do what he wants. He barks and even yells at us when we don't let him do what he wants. He was very spoiled before mdb and this life change makes him mad. Poor guy. Still keeping fingers crossed but it has been almost two weeks since we started his medicine, so my heart breaks a little more everyday.

Any idea how long we should keep him on the Metacam and gabapentin?

[Nancy in New York]

Well, unfortunately, there's still no change with Smokey's back legs and tail ��. No movement at all back there. However, he is very alert these last few days. He loves Henry's blocks but that's all he'll eat, he literally throws broccoli and other vegetables at me ��. He is a stubborn squirrel. He loves my husband but he's been a little mean to me. He has bitten me 4 times this week and two of those times he drew blood. So I don't think I'm his favorite person right now. He has never bitten anyone before so that makes me sad. His sassy attitude is back and I think he gets really frustrated when he can't do what he wants. He barks and even yells at us when we don't let him do what he wants. He was very spoiled before mdb and this life change makes him mad. Poor guy. Still keeping fingers crossed but it has been almost two weeks since we started his medicine, so my heart breaks a little more everyday.

Any idea how long we should keep him on the Metacam and gabapentin?

With Harvey my little one that had front end paralysis, she said if no
improvement in 2 weeks, that most likely we won't see any.
He responded in a couple of days to the meds.
I'm not sure about Ana and how long she was on before her mom
saw improvement, or how long she was on the combination of meds.

Poor Smokey Joe, this is all confusing to him.
Do you have a safe vet? I'm wondering if he took
a fall and broke something. :dono
An x ray would tell us a lot.

Edit: I see that you answered me back on October 9th about the fall.


he could have taken a fall of about 5 feet while we were away for 20 minutes. we found him on the carpeted floor. it came on very suddenly. He has free roam of his room when we are in there and that is very often and his cage is 8ft tall, 8 ft wide, and 3 ft deep.

[lennysmom]

I'm sorry to hear there's been no improvement in your little guy's paralysis.:( I kept Ana on the Gabipentin for little over three weeks if memory serves me right, but the Metacam two weeks max. I only used it until she seemed like she was no longer in pain before it was time for the next dose.

I'm sure little Smokey is very frustrated with these new physical limitations that he's having to deal with, but in time, hopefully before too long, he will calm down as he adjusts to them... for your sake and for his.:grouphug

[Chickenlegs]

Is Smokey still on the MBD protocol? Just wondering. Maybe give him some more running room and a few low branches to climb on. Absolutely don't want him to fall but if he is permanently disabled, he needs to strengthen the muscles he has.

[missPixy]

want to add something about the comment "if no improvement in 2 weeks, likely not to see any."

2 years ago this halloween, I discovered my Shelly in my yard, with complete back-end paralysis from hips down. I had her x-rayed and started on prednisone. For the first week or so I had to express her bladder as she initially wasn't able to even pee on her own.

What I have seen over the past 2 years have been very slow, incremental but STEADY progress in terms of her mobility. Since she was around 8 months old and pretty much an adult wild squirrel when I found her, there was very little hands-on I could do in the beginning without wrapping her including covering her eyes when I expressed her bladder.

However: at this date, she has a lot more control of her tail. she has begun tucking one hind leg UNDER her whenever she sits up to eat rather than splayed out to the side. She has regained some strength in that leg (it always seemed her paralysis was worse on her right side than left). The other day when she went go move forward, she was able to raise her body halfway off the floor using that left leg.

I believe this has happened because I chose to allow her free movement around the room whenever possible. It was always a trade-off with not wrapping her knees and seeing some knee burn because of the dragging she does. But wrapping her knees mobilized them and didn't encourage her to try and use them. She's in a regular 2-story Ferret Nation cage and swings around in it like a monkey using her arms. But lately she has been trying to use her left leg to scale branches and the side of the cage.

Not deceiving myself into believing she will completely heal both legs. But her will to move has been the physical therapy she seemed to need to make these incremental improvements over a long period of time.

[Chickenlegs]

I agree with you 100%. In the beginning I let Scooter heal but Smokey should pretty much healed IF his paralysis is due to injury. If MBD then it will take month to rebuild bone loss. Either way, let him have scooting room and watch what he does. As he drags, he may develope rug burns. Scooter gets some doozies. A "skute" will help with that. It's like an apron that velcroes around the waist. The legs ride in the apron part. I REALLY am making a turorial for making a skute.(Promise!) Scooter can climb and move fast as a normal squirrel in his. Might start SJ off on a smooth floor. No friction to make sores. Once he gets the hang of "scooting" his world will open up and he'll be much happier.

[Nancy in New York]

want to add something about the comment "if no improvement in 2 weeks, likely not to see any."



Reading back what I posted, I should have made it clearer.
My vet meant if I saw no improvement from the meds, I most
likely wouldn't see any.
Just wanted to clarify. :)


With Harvey my little one that had front end paralysis, she said if no
improvement in 2 weeks, that most likely we won't see any.
He responded in a couple of days to the meds.

[missPixy]

Reading back what I posted, I should have made it clearer.
My vet meant if I saw no improvement from the meds, I most
likely wouldn't see any.
Just wanted to clarify. :)

oh Nancy, I didn't mean for this to be directed at you! It was more directed at how many vets will say things like that, not taking into account each individual little spirit inside that squirrel (or any other animal, really).

[Nancy in New York]

oh Nancy, I didn't mean for this to be directed at you! It was more directed at how many vets will say things like that, not taking into account each individual little spirit inside that squirrel (or any other animal, really).

Oh missPixy that's fine. I wanted to clarify after I read your post.
I didn't want anyone to think that you give up after 2 weeks. I decided to word/phrase it better.
We have seen so many miracles on TSB and we know that anything is possible, regardless
of what some vets say.:w00t
:hug

[smokey joe]

want to add something about the comment "if no improvement in 2 weeks, likely not to see any."

2 years ago this halloween, I discovered my Shelly in my yard, with complete back-end paralysis from hips down. I had her x-rayed and started on prednisone. For the first week or so I had to express her bladder as she initially wasn't able to even pee on her own.

What I have seen over the past 2 years have been very slow, incremental but STEADY progress in terms of her mobility. Since she was around 8 months old and pretty much an adult wild squirrel when I found her, there was very little hands-on I could do in the beginning without wrapping her including covering her eyes when I expressed her bladder.

However: at this date, she has a lot more control of her tail. she has begun tucking one hind leg UNDER her whenever she sits up to eat rather than splayed out to the side. She has regained some strength in that leg (it always seemed her paralysis was worse on her right side than left). The other day when she went go move forward, she was able to raise her body halfway off the floor using that left leg.

I believe this has happened because I chose to allow her free movement around the room whenever possible. It was always a trade-off with not wrapping her knees and seeing some knee burn because of the dragging she does. But wrapping her knees mobilized them and didn't encourage her to try and use them. She's in a regular 2-story Ferret Nation cage and swings around in it like a monkey using her arms. But lately she has been trying to use her left leg to scale branches and the side of the cage.

Not deceiving myself into believing she will completely heal both legs. But her will to move has been the physical therapy she seemed to need to make these incremental improvements over a long period of time.

This is an incredible story and we thank you for sharing it! Did the xrays show damage or was it just MBD? We can't find anyone to look at him so we are just playing trial and error for the most part. Smokey is still not using his back end at all to move but he scoots around pretty fast with his front. He isn't the same squirrel he was before "the day". He is really frustrated and he bites me a lot. There were a few days where we saw his spark. He tried playing and being goofy like he was before but those times are few and far between.

Over the past week though we notice his legs twitching sometimes. More in his left leg than his right but the do both twitch sometimes. It doesn't look like hes trying to move them, like its just reflexes? His tail still just lays there. We do physical training with his back legs as often as possible. We built him a good size "playpen" on the floor of his bedroom. He likes the freedom but he really gets crabby when we don't let him run around his cage. Stubborn squirrel! We miss his spark so much and we hope that soon he will be back to his old self again. He's not eating the best, its really hit or miss most days. We give him Henry's blocks, sometimes he devours them. sometimes he shreds them, and sometimes he stares at us like we must be crazy.

Anyway, we are always looking for advice and I love to hear how other people handle it. Thanks again for sharing!!!

[smokey joe]

I agree with you 100%. In the beginning I let Scooter heal but Smokey should pretty much healed IF his paralysis is due to injury. If MBD then it will take month to rebuild bone loss. Either way, let him have scooting room and watch what he does. As he drags, he may develope rug burns. Scooter gets some doozies. A "skute" will help with that. It's like an apron that velcroes around the waist. The legs ride in the apron part. I REALLY am making a turorial for making a skute.(Promise!) Scooter can climb and move fast as a normal squirrel in his. Might start SJ off on a smooth floor. No friction to make sores. Once he gets the hang of "scooting" his world will open up and he'll be much happier.

Very much looking forward to your "skute" tutorial!! I think Smokey is ready to run around a little more and that will definitely help! Thanks again!!!

[smokey joe]

Hello everyone! My Smokey has been on gabapentin for 3 weeks. He still can't use his back legs or tail but his back legs do twitch for a while from time to time. He doesn't seem to notice though. Anyone have any idea if we should keep him on it and for how much longer? Thanks!!