mattrat
04-30-2023, 06:45 AM
Hello everyone! I wanted to share my recent experience and seek additional guidance if possible. So, let me dive into the story. On April 15th, 2023, in Ontario, Canada, I ventured out to the store to buy some essentials for myself and my mother. It was the first pleasant day we've had in a while, with temperatures reaching 22°C. I decided to make the most of it by walking to the store and getting some exercise.
Upon reaching my destination, I completed my errands and began walking back through a vast parking lot. That's when I noticed a small creature on the ground, initially mistaking it for a puppy. As I got closer, I realized it was a baby squirrel, sprawled out on the hot pavement. I picked it up gently and placed it in my hat to cool it down while searching for a tree or its mother. Unfortunately, there was no sign of either after searching for about 30 minutes.
I surmised that the baby squirrel might have fallen out of a car that had been parked in a garage over the winter. I tried contacting several wildlife rehabilitators, but they were either full or too far away to be practical. Thus, I decided to take on the responsibility of rehabilitating the squirrel until it could be released back into the wild.
I conducted extensive research on how to care for a baby squirrel, learning the dos and don'ts of squirrel care. Creating a routine and feeding schedule was quite a challenge. Initially, I focused on hydrating the squirrel with unflavored Pedialyte, as recommended by online forums. The only formula available to me at first was liquid Esbilac, which seemed to cause dehydration and slow weight gain.
Fortunately, I was able to obtain powdered Esbilac, which has dramatically improved the squirrel's health. She now has a healthy weight, normal hydration levels, and her eyes are opening. She's become a voracious eater and urinates without issue. Her bowel movements have also become more regular since switching to the powdered formula.
Despite the progress, I still have concerns. One of them is maintaining the appropriate temperature for the squirrel. I currently use a rice bag from Amazon, but I'm worried about her chewing on it as she grows and becomes more mobile. I'm considering alternatives like heating pads or space heaters. Any advice on the best option would be appreciated.
I am truly looking forward to the day when I can release her back into the wild, allowing her to live her best squirrel life.
Upon reaching my destination, I completed my errands and began walking back through a vast parking lot. That's when I noticed a small creature on the ground, initially mistaking it for a puppy. As I got closer, I realized it was a baby squirrel, sprawled out on the hot pavement. I picked it up gently and placed it in my hat to cool it down while searching for a tree or its mother. Unfortunately, there was no sign of either after searching for about 30 minutes.
I surmised that the baby squirrel might have fallen out of a car that had been parked in a garage over the winter. I tried contacting several wildlife rehabilitators, but they were either full or too far away to be practical. Thus, I decided to take on the responsibility of rehabilitating the squirrel until it could be released back into the wild.
I conducted extensive research on how to care for a baby squirrel, learning the dos and don'ts of squirrel care. Creating a routine and feeding schedule was quite a challenge. Initially, I focused on hydrating the squirrel with unflavored Pedialyte, as recommended by online forums. The only formula available to me at first was liquid Esbilac, which seemed to cause dehydration and slow weight gain.
Fortunately, I was able to obtain powdered Esbilac, which has dramatically improved the squirrel's health. She now has a healthy weight, normal hydration levels, and her eyes are opening. She's become a voracious eater and urinates without issue. Her bowel movements have also become more regular since switching to the powdered formula.
Despite the progress, I still have concerns. One of them is maintaining the appropriate temperature for the squirrel. I currently use a rice bag from Amazon, but I'm worried about her chewing on it as she grows and becomes more mobile. I'm considering alternatives like heating pads or space heaters. Any advice on the best option would be appreciated.
I am truly looking forward to the day when I can release her back into the wild, allowing her to live her best squirrel life.