View Full Version : My little squeaky needs help
Hello, I am new here...but I need help. My squirrels name is squeaky, he is 3 years old, and recently over the past month he has been sick..I noticed his teeth were growing backwards and were so far back they were in his throat, I didn't realize cuz he is hard to see from being so skittish..I took him into the vet thinking he had pseudo odontoma on his top teeth..his x rays showed he has 1 small one starting on 1 bottom tooth and the tops are fine, but are now thick and growing faster and the bottoms are different length. I had them trimmed 2 times now. While getting x rays I had them x ray his whole body and their realized he had a chest contusion and so he was on antibiotics to help, which is did. He quit sneezing, and his milky eyes went away and I had him resting in a smaller cage for a week. He went for update x rays yesterday and the vet isn't sure what it is...but he has an abnormality in his chest, and he thinks it may be an abnormal heart. He doesn't know a lot about squirrels so he was going to look into their anatomy more and get back to me...but my baby is sneezing a lot again, and his 1 eye keeps going milky like he's in pain. I don't know what to do... I have already spent about $1000 in vet bills trying to figure it out and living in Canada, vets don't know anything about them and this vet is the only guy who was willing to help me. But he needs help cuz he doesn't know much about them. I'm desperate, I love squeaky with all my heart and I'm worried about him. Every morning I come in his room, and he's standing on his tree and he's breathing very wierd. Like big movements, and then goes away...I'm not sure if he's just excited for a minit cuz I just walked in and he's getting ready to go crazy for his food, but it makes me scared. I'm trying to stay positive, and I'm trying to help him as much as I can. I hope I can afford all that it brings me cuz I would pay whatever to save my baby. Please help. What does my baby need...he was just on trimthoprim and metacam, and it cleared his lung but his symptoms are still there
SamtheSquirrel2018
05-06-2023, 04:16 PM
Hi Bean & Squeaky:
I have been out of the Country on a vacation and have had little contact with TSB or anyone else for that matter as I have very limited internet access until I return home in a couple of days. That being said, I read your post and wanted to make some comments and suggestions. I don't know if the internet service will be maintained long enough to get my post made but I'll try as best I can.
Questions with comments:
1) When did Squeaky get his first x-ray studies performed?
2) Was the film that you posted showing the chest and the skull among the studies that were performed at first or was this film obtained on 5/5/2023 when the Discharge Summary and "discharge" Chest x-ray films were obtained?
3) Were any other skull films obtained other than the single view that was taken either Ventro-Dorsally or Dorso-Ventrally (top to bottom or bottom to top-you can't tell by looking because the x-ray beam passes throught the same areas with both) such as lateral views (x-ray films taken directly from the side)? At least both of these views are essential for adequately evaluating for odontomas and for most other radiographically visible problems as well!
4) Disclaimer: I am not a Vet nor am I a radiologist (a specialist in interpreting x-ray studies). I will give my opinion however but it must recognized that this is only my opinion! Moving on; while looking at the Discharge Summary from 5/5/2023 that has Chest x-ray (CXR) films pasted to it; there is mention of "the lungs having cleared themselves up" but the "major abnormality in the chest is still there." I am not certain as to what the Vet has referring to as this "major abnormality" but it appears from it says beyond that on the Discharge Summary that they believe it may be the heart. This to me implies that the Vet is referring to the white centrally located, broad density with a blunt L-shape pointed leftward. This is the Heart "shadow" and the upper part of that is what is called the mediastinum which contains some major blood vessels and other "stuff" (to use a medical term!). This Heart "shadow" does appear at first glance to be quite wide in its relation to the lateral width (side to side dimension) of the chest but it is essential to recognize that unlike primates such as monkeys and humans where the broadest dimension of the chest is indeed the lateral dimension; Squirrels and most quadrupeds (those that walking on four legs) have there broadest chest dimension in Ventrodorsal line (from bottom to top) and not from side to side! The heart shadow appears to me to be relatively unremarkable and normal (but again, I am not a radiologist or Vet.
5) you mentioned that you had asked that an x-ray study of the whole body be obtained and with this a "chest contusion" was somehow identified. A contusion is essentially a bruise and is a mechanism of injury rather than necessarily the injury itself. For instance, being his in the head by brick is also a contusion but but whith that particular injury there may be a skull fracture, bleeding in the brain, a laceration, etc. By looking at a CXR it may be able under certain situations especially where the history is known to surmise that a contusion occurred but this "diagnosis" does not define or imply what the actual extent of injury might be. What in particular did the Vet see on the film that suggested a contusion? (on this CXR. my feeble eyes and Squirrel Block sized brain do not see an fractures, abnormal fluid accumulations or air in the chest where it shouldn't be (called a pneumothorax). It may be very important to know specifically what the abnormality was that was seen!
6) In regard to the "milky eye;" my concern about this is always that any milky fluid may actually be pus or when from the eyes; be pus mixed with tears. When a Squirrel has signs of breathing problems it certainly could be an Upper Respiratory Tract Infection, allergy, pneumonia and many other possibilities but, just you recognized; one of the very common culprits for breathing issues with Rodents has to do with dental problems and among those, odontoma is extremely common. Squirrel cannot easily change from their normal nose breathing to mouth breathing and any mouth breathing by a Squirrel must be considered abnormal and indicative of an evaluation.
Please describe what has actually been going on with Squeaky other then the milky eye that has seem abnormal or unusual?
7) It may be that Squeaky does have an odontoma or dental abscess. Antibiotics will do nothing for an odontoma and surgery is what is required BUT if there is an infection still going on in the root regions of a tooth or teeth, further antibiotics my be beneficial in that they may be able to cure an infection and help prevent spread of an infection IF there is still infection remaining. Even if antibiotics are not going to be restarted at this time, I would recommend trying to obtain antibiotics to keep in reserve. One of the antibiotics that I would consider among the best for a dental infection would Amoxicillin plus Clavulate (this is a combination medication. A veterinary brand is Clavamox and a Human brand is Augmentin but it is available as a generic). Please post whatever antibiotics you may have available and the strength of the particular tablets, powder or capsules you have.
I just wanted to get as much of my concerns expressed in this post as I am not sure how long my internet access with persists. I'll check back as I am able and there are many others on TSB who can help.
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
Hi Bean & Squeaky:
I have been out of the Country on a vacation and have had little contact with TSB or anyone else for that matter as I have very limited internet access until I return home in a couple of days. That being said, I read your post and wanted to make some comments and suggestions. I don't know if the internet service will be maintained long enough to get my post made but I'll try as best I can.
Questions with comments:
1) When did Squeaky get his first x-ray studies performed?
2) Was the film that you posted showing the chest and the skull among the studies that were performed at first or was this film obtained on 5/5/2023 when the Discharge Summary and "discharge" Chest x-ray films were obtained?
3) Were any other skull films obtained other than the single view that was taken either Ventro-Dorsally or Dorso-Ventrally (top to bottom or bottom to top-you can't tell by looking because the x-ray beam passes throught the same areas with both) such as lateral views (x-ray films taken directly from the side)? At least both of these views are essential for adequately evaluating for odontomas and for most other radiographically visible problems as well!
4) Disclaimer: I am not a Vet nor am I a radiologist (a specialist in interpreting x-ray studies). I will give my opinion however but it must recognized that this is only my opinion! Moving on; while looking at the Discharge Summary from 5/5/2023 that has Chest x-ray (CXR) films pasted to it; there is mention of "the lungs having cleared themselves up" but the "major abnormality in the chest is still there." I am not certain as to what the Vet has referring to as this "major abnormality" but it appears from it says beyond that on the Discharge Summary that they believe it may be the heart. This to me implies that the Vet is referring to the white centrally located, broad density with a blunt L-shape pointed leftward. This is the Heart "shadow" and the upper part of that is what is called the mediastinum which contains some major blood vessels and other "stuff" (to use a medical term!). This Heart "shadow" does appear at first glance to be quite wide in its relation to the lateral width (side to side dimension) of the chest but it is essential to recognize that unlike primates such as monkeys and humans where the broadest dimension of the chest is indeed the lateral dimension; Squirrels and most quadrupeds (those that walking on four legs) have there broadest chest dimension in Ventrodorsal line (from bottom to top) and not from side to side! The heart shadow appears to me to be relatively unremarkable and normal (but again, I am not a radiologist or Vet.
5) you mentioned that you had asked that an x-ray study of the whole body be obtained and with this a "chest contusion" was somehow identified. A contusion is essentially a bruise and is a mechanism of injury rather than necessarily the injury itself. For instance, being his in the head by brick is also a contusion but but whith that particular injury there may be a skull fracture, bleeding in the brain, a laceration, etc. By looking at a CXR it may be able under certain situations especially where the history is known to surmise that a contusion occurred but this "diagnosis" does not define or imply what the actual extent of injury might be. What in particular did the Vet see on the film that suggested a contusion? (on this CXR. my feeble eyes and Squirrel Block sized brain do not see an fractures, abnormal fluid accumulations or air in the chest where it shouldn't be (called a pneumothorax). It may be very important to know specifically what the abnormality was that was seen!
6) In regard to the "milky eye;" my concern about this is always that any milky fluid may actually be pus or when from the eyes; be pus mixed with tears. When a Squirrel has signs of breathing problems it certainly could be an Upper Respiratory Tract Infection, allergy, pneumonia and many other possibilities but, just you recognized; one of the very common culprits for breathing issues with Rodents has to do with dental problems and among those, odontoma is extremely common. Squirrel cannot easily change from their normal nose breathing to mouth breathing and any mouth breathing by a Squirrel must be considered abnormal and indicative of an evaluation.
Please describe what has actually been going on with Squeaky other then the milky eye that has seem abnormal or unusual?
7) It may be that Squeaky does have an odontoma or dental abscess. Antibiotics will do nothing for an odontoma and surgery is what is required BUT if there is an infection still going on in the root regions of a tooth or teeth, further antibiotics my be beneficial in that they may be able to cure an infection and help prevent spread of an infection IF there is still infection remaining. Even if antibiotics are not going to be restarted at this time, I would recommend trying to obtain antibiotics to keep in reserve. One of the antibiotics that I would consider among the best for a dental infection would Amoxicillin plus Clavulate (this is a combination medication. A veterinary brand is Clavamox and a Human brand is Augmentin but it is available as a generic). Please post whatever antibiotics you may have available and the strength of the particular tablets, powder or capsules you have.
I just wanted to get as much of my concerns expressed in this post as I am not sure how long my internet access with persists. I'll check back as I am able and there are many others on TSB who can help.
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
Thank you so much for your message and in great detail!
Ok so I took squeaky in on April 25 to have his 1stcx rays done. he had told me that he was concerned because it seemed to have a chest contusion as tho he fell and hurt himself or had pneumonia, he said his lungs seemed to be full of fluid. They told me the little white dots in the lung area was the bad part, but when I took him back yesterday on the 5th, it was mostly cleared up. And he was doing so much better. But recently I noticed he seems like he is breathing a little wierd and sneezing and his one eye keeps showing milkiness..he seemed better when in his small enclosure, maybe because he was rested and not running and jumping around cuz his big enclosure is huge..I don't hear his breathing like I did before, like he was having a hard time, he got to the point he was literally throwing snot from his nose when sneezing, and he sounded very nasally when breathing, and one morning I came in and he was open mouth gasping. So that is when I took him in for the 1st x rays, I was worried he needed odontoma surgery and needed it now! Which also is hard because my vet has never done that surgery, no one around this area has at all. But he was going to try. Until we looked at the x rays. I will share them, we did get a few of his skull which showed his top teeth were ok, his one bottom tooth appeared to have a small odontoma starting and his bottom teeth kind of grow different lengths, it looks like one is broken off and it's causing his top teeth to grow fast. I then sent his x rays to Dr peters in the USA and he said his x rays were great, no odontoma, but does appear to have one on the bottom but generally leave those ones alone and are very difficult to remove. He told me to continue on the medicine and see what happens from there about the lung...he was on 0.14 ml of trimethoprim every 12 hours, and then 0.35ml of metacam every 24 hours. I had him on the metacam for 8 days and the trimethoprim for 10 days. But he did waste a couple times of it cuz he didn't like the taste so I had to be creative to get it to him. He got noticably better in that time. Sneezing stopped, milky eyes went away, and he just overall looked better. But now seeming to go back the opposite again. The milky eye isn't as bad, but it is back a bit. And the sneezing is back. He thinks that the large white thing in the center and in the l shape to the side is his heart and thinks it is abnormal, but said it could also be his anatomy, cuz he doesn't know much about squirrels.im not sure how to tell the lungs or the heart, to know if this looks normal or not. But I'm not sure what is causing him to appear sick. I just want my little guy to be healthy, he did so great up until about the beginning of April this year, which is why we suspected odontoma, cuz his teeth grew very thick, hard and curved inward. But something else must be causing his sickness. I have also attached the summary from his 1st x rays and what the Dr said about it.
Thank you so much for your message and in great detail!
Ok so I took squeaky in on April 25 to have his 1stcx rays done. he had told me that he was concerned because it seemed to have a chest contusion as tho he fell and hurt himself or had pneumonia, he said his lungs seemed to be full of fluid. They told me the little white dots in the lung area was the bad part, but when I took him back yesterday on the 5th, it was mostly cleared up. And he was doing so much better. But recently I noticed he seems like he is breathing a little wierd and sneezing and his one eye keeps showing milkiness..he seemed better when in his small enclosure, maybe because he was rested and not running and jumping around cuz his big enclosure is huge..I don't hear his breathing like I did before, like he was having a hard time, he got to the point he was literally throwing snot from his nose when sneezing, and he sounded very nasally when breathing, and one morning I came in and he was open mouth gasping. So that is when I took him in for the 1st x rays, I was worried he needed odontoma surgery and needed it now! Which also is hard because my vet has never done that surgery, no one around this area has at all. But he was going to try. Until we looked at the x rays. I will share them, we did get a few of his skull which showed his top teeth were ok, his one bottom tooth appeared to have a small odontoma starting and his bottom teeth kind of grow different lengths, it looks like one is broken off and it's causing his top teeth to grow fast. I then sent his x rays to Dr peters in the USA and he said his x rays were great, no odontoma, but does appear to have one on the bottom but generally leave those ones alone and are very difficult to remove. He told me to continue on the medicine and see what happens from there about the lung...he was on 0.14 ml of trimethoprim every 12 hours, and then 0.35ml of metacam every 24 hours. I had him on the metacam for 8 days and the trimethoprim for 10 days. But he did waste a couple times of it cuz he didn't like the taste so I had to be creative to get it to him. He got noticably better in that time. Sneezing stopped, milky eyes went away, and he just overall looked better. But now seeming to go back the opposite again. The milky eye isn't as bad, but it is back a bit. And the sneezing is back. He thinks that the large white thing in the center and in the l shape to the side is his heart and thinks it is abnormal, but said it could also be his anatomy, cuz he doesn't know much about squirrels.im not sure how to tell the lungs or the heart, to know if this looks normal or not. But I'm not sure what is causing him to appear sick. I just want my little guy to be healthy, he did so great up until about the beginning of April this year, which is why we suspected odontoma, cuz his teeth grew very thick, hard and curved inward. But something else must be causing his sickness. I have also attached the summary from his 1st x rays and what the Dr said about it.
I don't have any medications right now aside from what was prescribed to him. I'm not sure I could get the ones I mentioned, if they need to be prescribed or anything or if they can just be grabbed over the counter. But from what my vet said and the vet I showed his x rays to, they both said he appears to not have infection in his teeth. Just a small odontoma growing on one bottomed tooth which won't affect his breathing. But the chest contusion he was saying was the center white part that goes off to the side, I am pretty sure ..but then when I took him for updated x rays, the other doctor or receptionist came out and told me that the issue in his lung was the little white specs showing in his lung on the x ray but the new x rays it was cleared up mostly and a lot better. That is what I got from it..but again, he doesn't know squirrel anatomy so he wanted to look into it cuz he wasn't sure if it was normal. I'm worried he may have a heart problem or something wrong inside. And nobody is able to figure it out. And then I am told in order to know for sure he may need further diagnostic and cuz he is so little, it would be hard to do. I don't know what else to do or how to tell exactly what it is that is wrong with him. I was told milky tears means hes in pain. The metacam really helped with that, it all cleared up but now it's back again. And I just want to bunch of people's opinions to figure out what it is. Maybe he does have some sort of a cold, I'm not sure if that is a thing. But maybe his lungs or heart or whatever is causing him to sneeze a bunch and have pain. I feel bad for the little guy. He still plays and acts normal, but some days he just breathes wierd it looks like or he just hides in his bed
Hi Bean & Squeaky:
I have been out of the Country on a vacation and have had little contact with TSB or anyone else for that matter as I have very limited internet access until I return home in a couple of days. That being said, I read your post and wanted to make some comments and suggestions. I don't know if the internet service will be maintained long enough to get my post made but I'll try as best I can.
Questions with comments:
1) When did Squeaky get his first x-ray studies performed?
2) Was the film that you posted showing the chest and the skull among the studies that were performed at first or was this film obtained on 5/5/2023 when the Discharge Summary and "discharge" Chest x-ray films were obtained?
3) Were any other skull films obtained other than the single view that was taken either Ventro-Dorsally or Dorso-Ventrally (top to bottom or bottom to top-you can't tell by looking because the x-ray beam passes throught the same areas with both) such as lateral views (x-ray films taken directly from the side)? At least both of these views are essential for adequately evaluating for odontomas and for most other radiographically visible problems as well!
4) Disclaimer: I am not a Vet nor am I a radiologist (a specialist in interpreting x-ray studies). I will give my opinion however but it must recognized that this is only my opinion! Moving on; while looking at the Discharge Summary from 5/5/2023 that has Chest x-ray (CXR) films pasted to it; there is mention of "the lungs having cleared themselves up" but the "major abnormality in the chest is still there." I am not certain as to what the Vet has referring to as this "major abnormality" but it appears from it says beyond that on the Discharge Summary that they believe it may be the heart. This to me implies that the Vet is referring to the white centrally located, broad density with a blunt L-shape pointed leftward. This is the Heart "shadow" and the upper part of that is what is called the mediastinum which contains some major blood vessels and other "stuff" (to use a medical term!). This Heart "shadow" does appear at first glance to be quite wide in its relation to the lateral width (side to side dimension) of the chest but it is essential to recognize that unlike primates such as monkeys and humans where the broadest dimension of the chest is indeed the lateral dimension; Squirrels and most quadrupeds (those that walking on four legs) have there broadest chest dimension in Ventrodorsal line (from bottom to top) and not from side to side! The heart shadow appears to me to be relatively unremarkable and normal (but again, I am not a radiologist or Vet.
5) you mentioned that you had asked that an x-ray study of the whole body be obtained and with this a "chest contusion" was somehow identified. A contusion is essentially a bruise and is a mechanism of injury rather than necessarily the injury itself. For instance, being his in the head by brick is also a contusion but but whith that particular injury there may be a skull fracture, bleeding in the brain, a laceration, etc. By looking at a CXR it may be able under certain situations especially where the history is known to surmise that a contusion occurred but this "diagnosis" does not define or imply what the actual extent of injury might be. What in particular did the Vet see on the film that suggested a contusion? (on this CXR. my feeble eyes and Squirrel Block sized brain do not see an fractures, abnormal fluid accumulations or air in the chest where it shouldn't be (called a pneumothorax). It may be very important to know specifically what the abnormality was that was seen!
6) In regard to the "milky eye;" my concern about this is always that any milky fluid may actually be pus or when from the eyes; be pus mixed with tears. When a Squirrel has signs of breathing problems it certainly could be an Upper Respiratory Tract Infection, allergy, pneumonia and many other possibilities but, just you recognized; one of the very common culprits for breathing issues with Rodents has to do with dental problems and among those, odontoma is extremely common. Squirrel cannot easily change from their normal nose breathing to mouth breathing and any mouth breathing by a Squirrel must be considered abnormal and indicative of an evaluation.
Please describe what has actually been going on with Squeaky other then the milky eye that has seem abnormal or unusual?
7) It may be that Squeaky does have an odontoma or dental abscess. Antibiotics will do nothing for an odontoma and surgery is what is required BUT if there is an infection still going on in the root regions of a tooth or teeth, further antibiotics my be beneficial in that they may be able to cure an infection and help prevent spread of an infection IF there is still infection remaining. Even if antibiotics are not going to be restarted at this time, I would recommend trying to obtain antibiotics to keep in reserve. One of the antibiotics that I would consider among the best for a dental infection would Amoxicillin plus Clavulate (this is a combination medication. A veterinary brand is Clavamox and a Human brand is Augmentin but it is available as a generic). Please post whatever antibiotics you may have available and the strength of the particular tablets, powder or capsules you have.
I just wanted to get as much of my concerns expressed in this post as I am not sure how long my internet access with persists. I'll check back as I am able and there are many others on TSB who can help.
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
I don't have any medications right now aside from what was prescribed to him. I'm not sure I could get the ones I mentioned, if they need to be prescribed or anything or if they can just be grabbed over the counter. But from what my vet said and the vet I showed his x rays to, they both said he appears to not have infection in his teeth. Just a small odontoma growing on one bottomed tooth which won't affect his breathing. But the chest contusion he was saying was the center white part that goes off to the side, I am pretty sure ..but then when I took him for updated x rays, the other doctor or receptionist came out and told me that the issue in his lung was the little white specs showing in his lung on the x ray but the new x rays it was cleared up mostly and a lot better. That is what I got from it..but again, he doesn't know squirrel anatomy so he wanted to look into it cuz he wasn't sure if it was normal. I'm worried he may have a heart problem or something wrong inside. And nobody is able to figure it out. And then I am told in order to know for sure he may need further diagnostic and cuz he is so little, it would be hard to do. I don't know what else to do or how to tell exactly what it is that is wrong with him. I was told milky tears means hes in pain. The metacam really helped with that, it all cleared up but now it's back again. And I just want to bunch of people's opinions to figure out what it is. Maybe he does have some sort of a cold, I'm not sure if that is a thing. But maybe his lungs or heart or whatever is causing him to sneeze a bunch and have pain. I feel bad for the little guy. He still plays and acts normal, but some days he just breathes wierd it looks like or he just hides in his bed
Charley Chuckles
05-06-2023, 10:55 PM
I did send my vet your x-ray from your first post in old thread, I didn't have the info on odatoma. Only the x-ray of chest area. I'm sorry but I haven't heard back from her yet.
I hope to hear from her and I will put it up here if I do.
I know how agonizing it is not knowing and how much it cost😭
SamtheSquirrel2018
05-06-2023, 11:29 PM
Hi Bean:
Thanks for your detailed posts! Any restriction to nasal breathing in a Squirrel is very noticeable as Squirrels are obligate nose breathers and do not easily go from nose breathing to mouth breathing even though it would make breathing much easier if the nose is stopped up! I do not know who Dr. Peters is but others on TSB may know of him.
Another Squirrel Vet who has many years of very extensive experience with Squirrel conditions and especially dental conditions is Dr. Alicia Emerson at the Ravenwood Veterinary Clinic in Port Orange, Florida. A number of our members have taken their Squirrels to her for odontoma surgery, malocclusions and dental abscesses. This is their number: (386) 788–1550. I would like to suggest that you ask your Vet to contact Dr. Emerson and discuss Squeaky's case with her. He could send the x-ray films and other records to her as well and she hopefully would be agreeable to reviewing those and rendering an opinion and make some recommendations. I would recommend doing this Monday morning when the Ravenwood Clinic opens.
With Squeaky's persistent nasal issues, I still suspect a dental condition such as an abscess. On an x-ray study, an odontoma appears as a white mass. An abscess or decay of a tooth appears dark and is much less evident on a x-ray or not evident at all even if quite extensive!
As far as milky or cloudy tears being a sign of pain; there are many on TSB who feel quite strongly about this and it is quite ok to treat Squeaky's presumed pain! All I would really like to suggest is that while doing so; it is still worth keeping an open mind and consider other possibilities for the cloudy tears which would certainly include drainage of pus or diluted pus. Most likely if pus, this would be originating from a draining abscess.
No antibiotics other than topical antibiotics are available OTC in the States and while I don't know definitively, I suspect the same is true in Canada. You can check with a pharmacy. Other things that may help breathing with through a "stuffy" nose would be to humidify the air Squeaky breathes utilizing a cool mist vaporizer placed near his home.
Please continue to post updates on Squeaky and thank you for coming to TSB!
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
Charley Chuckles
05-06-2023, 11:34 PM
:goodpost
Yes it was Dr Emerson I sent the chest x-ray to 👍
SamtheSquirrel2018
05-07-2023, 07:56 AM
Another Squirrel Vet who has many years of very extensive experience with Squirrel conditions and especially dental conditions is Dr. Alicia Emerson at the Ravenwood Veterinary Clinic in Port Orange, Florida. A number of our members have taken their Squirrels to her for odontoma surgery, malocclusions and dental abscesses. This is their number: (386) 788–1550. I would like to suggest that you ask your Vet to contact Dr. Emerson and discuss Squeaky's case with her. He could send the x-ray films and other records to her as well and she hopefully would be agreeable to reviewing those and rendering an opinion and make some recommendations. I would recommend doing this Monday morning when the Ravenwood Clinic opens.
Hi Bean:
How is Squeaky doing this morning? I had intended to provide a link to the Ravenwood Veterinary Clinic website in my recent post but only posted their phone number. Here is the link: https://ravenwoodvet.net
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
Squeaky was doing good this morning. It's kind of a hit and miss. He doesn't seem to have any issues breathing since his medicine he was on. Just sometimes his chest moves quite wierd some mornings when I walk in, I don't know if it is to do with excitement or something because he normally goes crazy soon as I come in cuz he knows he is getting his food. His chest movements go on for a few seconds and then he is normal. But other than that, I haven't noticed any nasally breathing or gasping like before. He seems to be breathing ok. And only the 1 eye seems to get milky only for a second and then is gone. Like when the dr asked me to put him in something smaller than the kennel he was in, I put him in a really small carrier, and he went nuts, he didn't like it at all, his eye showed some white stuff at the bottom for a second and when I took him back out and decided I wasn't gonna travel him in something he wasn't happy in, his milky eye went away. It's wierd. It's almost like if he blinks a certain way or moves it a certain way and goes nuts, it shows a little, but then is gone completely. I'm not sure what it is. His eyes before the medicine, were both milky and often, and his fur and everything just looked sick..il attach some photos of him before and after the meds. He seems to be doing ok, just sometimes the little things worry me, like the sneezes, which some days isn't very much, and some days are quite often, and then the little milky tear in 1 eye.
These are photos of him before his medications. He even lost his fur there, but it grew back before his medication started..and his teeth were really long and growing inward...but the x rays showed no odontoma, just the bottom tooth.
This is how squeaky looks now. He looks much healthier, and his teeth are trimmed, there even a little shorter than in this pic I just posted, but that was the 1st trimming, I don't have a updated pic. But he looks much better.. just the odd thing he does makes me worry. And his x ray I'm not sure about. I did talk to the owner of the squirrel called little thumbelina girl on instagram, and she took her squirrel for multiple surgeries by dr Emerson and also recommended her. I tried messaging her on Facebook weeks ago but got no reply, I was told she is very hard to get ahold of, otherwise I would have loved to have her message me with some input to help me out and my dr on what is wrong with my baby.
SamtheSquirrel2018
05-07-2023, 08:53 PM
This is how squeaky looks now. He looks much healthier, and his teeth are trimmed, there even a little shorter than in this pic I just posted, but that was the 1st trimming, I don't have a updated pic. But he looks much better.. just the odd thing he does makes me worry. And his x ray I'm not sure about. I did talk to the owner of the squirrel called little thumbelina girl on instagram, and she took her squirrel for multiple surgeries by dr Emerson and also recommended her. I tried messaging her on Facebook weeks ago but got no reply, I was told she is very hard to get ahold of, otherwise I would have loved to have her message me with some input to help me out and my dr on what is wrong with my baby.
Hi Bean:
Charlie Chuckles stated in one of her posts that she already had forwarded Squeaky's Chest x-ray to Dr. E but has not yet heard back. Please go to the Revenwood Veterinary Clinic website tonight
( here is the link: https://ravenwoodvet.net ) and send an email to Dr. Emerson including all of the films and concisely describe Squeaky's history and what has been done to this point. The tomorrow, a soon as the office opens, call them directly (if no one answers leave a message but call back) and explain breifly about Squeaky's history and your concerns and inform them that you already sent an email with the x-ray films. Tell them that you would like to talk with Dr. Emerson for her advice and recommendations as you have been referred to her by a number of people on The Squirrel Board. Your Vet may be willing to help with this or actually have the consultation with Dr. E.
Thanks for the photos!
We will be here for you and Squeaky! Please provide updates!
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
Charley Chuckles
05-08-2023, 08:20 AM
I'm so sorry to say I haven't heard back yet.
Yes do send x-rays to the info SamTS gave you 👍
SamtheSquirrel2018
05-08-2023, 08:34 AM
I'm so sorry to say I haven't heard back yet.
Yes do send x-rays to the info SamTS gave you 👍
Thanks! Sorry I spelled your first name wrong, CC!
Charley Chuckles
05-08-2023, 08:47 AM
Thanks! Sorry I spelled your first name wrong, CC!
Charley Chuckles won't mind😂
I'm so sorry to say I haven't heard back yet.
Yes do send x-rays to the info SamTS gave you 👍
I did send all of the pics and info to that link and asked for Dr Emerson..she is away for quite a while I'm told...I have tried getting a hold of her before cuz I always hear about her, she wouldn't respond. I need answers soon, it's hard to find someone willing to be there fully and help through it. The rehabber I talk to hasn't been answering my messages much lately, My baby is sick and it makes me upset, I stress so much daily about it and it's starting to make me sick :( it's like my son is not doing well and there's nothing I can do for him. Nothing more upsetting than that. last night he had white fluid come out of his mouth like he threw up, but then was gone, and lots of sneezing again today. I need opinions, ideas? He seems ok, and then the next, seems sick again, and just off and on...somethin going on with him..I need Words that will make me feel better ..he's all that is on my mind, it's effecting my daily life and work...I love animals more than anything. I'm so frustrated..
Charley Chuckles
05-08-2023, 10:16 AM
I did send all of the pics and info to that link and asked for Dr Emerson..she is away for quite a while I'm told...I have tried getting a hold of her before cuz I always hear about her, she wouldn't respond. I need answers soon, it's hard to find someone willing to be there fully and help through it. The rehabber I talk to hasn't been answering my messages much lately, My baby is sick and it makes me upset, I stress so much daily about it and it's starting to make me sick :( it's like my son is not doing well and there's nothing I can do for him. Nothing more upsetting than that. last night he had white fluid come out of his mouth like he threw up, but then was gone, and lots of sneezing again today. I need opinions, ideas? He seems ok, and then the next, seems sick again, and just off and on...somethin going on with him..I need Words that will make me feel better ..he's all that is on my mind, it's effecting my daily life and work...I love animals more than anything. I'm so frustrated..
Do you think she is still away or do you think she was away and now back but so backed up🤔
I know how you feel I'm a wreak when my babies are not feeling well.
I keep praying for your baby🙏
Do you think she is still away or do you think she was away and now back but so backed up🤔
I know how you feel I'm a wreak when my babies are not feeling well.
I keep praying for your baby🙏
Thank you! All prayers are needed. I am so sad and worried. :( I sent the email yesterday and I got a reply today that she is out of town for a while. :( I tried messaging her on her Facebook weeks ago too and she never replied. I really hope my little guy gets better, he means more to me than anything.
SamtheSquirrel2018
05-08-2023, 11:25 AM
I did send all of the pics and info to that link and asked for Dr Emerson..she is away for quite a while I'm told...I have tried getting a hold of her before cuz I always hear about her, she wouldn't respond. I need answers soon, it's hard to find someone willing to be there fully and help through it. The rehabber I talk to hasn't been answering my messages much lately, My baby is sick and it makes me upset, I stress so much daily about it and it's starting to make me sick :( it's like my son is not doing well and there's nothing I can do for him. Nothing more upsetting than that. last night he had white fluid come out of his mouth like he threw up, but then was gone, and lots of sneezing again today. I need opinions, ideas? He seems ok, and then the next, seems sick again, and just off and on...somethin going on with him..I need Words that will make me feel better ..he's all that is on my mind, it's effecting my daily life and work...I love animals more than anything. I'm so frustrated..
Hi Bean:
I called the Ravenwood Clinic moments ago and was informed that Dr. E is indeed gone for this week. She will be back in the office on Monday, the 15th. I was also informed that there is no one at there facility other than Dr. E who sees Squirrels. I have put in a call to Summertree Animal & Bird Hospital close to Dallas. They also see Squirrels and we have had several of our Memebrs take their Squirrels to Summertree with good outcomes. I am expecting a call back from them after the person I talked with discusses this with the Veterinarians. I'll let you know as soon as they return my call.
One of the problems (Dr. E seems to recognize the line and often she is willing to discuss a case) with a "phone consultation" is that a true Patient/Client-Veterinarian relationship usually requires an actual examination and some of the relatively few Vets who see Squirrels will not even give advice, let alone make a diagnosis and institute treatment. One thing that might help make a phone consultation more acceptable would be if your Vet would initiate it. Are you willing to let your Vet participate in this search for further help and advice and if so, is your Vet willing to to this.
Again, in regard to white fluid, as I mentioned before, this to me is pus until proven otherwise. I still suspect a dental associated infection as the cause of Squeaky's problems! Antibiotics may help with an infection or even cure it it but if there is an odontoma as a condition leading to this, they will not do anything for the odontoma itself! Do you have ANY antibiotics available or can you obtain any from friends or relatives? The antibiotic I would recommend is Amoxicillin plus Clavulanate (examples of a Human Brand is Augmentin and a Veterinary brand is Clavamox) but others would be better than nothing. I would recommend beginning the antibiotics ASAP! We can help you with dosing. Please try to assess the availability of antibiotics in general and find out what you can get right away and post those with the strength in milligrams. Also, an accurate and current weight of Squeaky is essential!
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
Hi Bean:
I called the Ravenwood Clinic moments ago and was informed that Dr. E is indeed gone for this week. She will be back in the office on Monday, the 15th. I was also informed that there is no one at there facility other than Dr. E who sees Squirrels. I have put in a call to Summertree Animal & Bird Hospital close to Dallas. They also see Squirrels and we have had several of our Memebrs take their Squirrels to Summertree with good outcomes. I am expecting a call back from them after the person I talked with discusses this with the Veterinarians. I'll let you know as soon as they return my call.
One of the problems (Dr. E seems to recognize the line and often she is willing to discuss a case) with a "phone consultation" is that a true Patient/Client-Veterinarian relationship usually requires an actual examination and some of the relatively few Vets who see Squirrels will not even give advice, let alone make a diagnosis and institute treatment. One thing that might help make a phone consultation more acceptable would be if your Vet would initiate it. Are you willing to let your Vet participate in this search for further help and advice and if so, is your Vet willing to to this.
Again, in regard to white fluid, as I mentioned before, this to me is pus until proven otherwise. I still suspect a dental associated infection as the cause of Squeaky's problems! Antibiotics may help with an infection or even cure it it but if there is an odontoma as a condition leading to this, they will not do anything for the odontoma itself! Do you have ANY antibiotics available or can you obtain any from friends or relatives? The antibiotic I would recommend is Amoxicillin plus Clavulanate (examples of a Human Brand is Augmentin and a Veterinary brand is Clavamox) but others would be better than nothing. I would recommend beginning the antibiotics ASAP! We can help you with dosing. Please try to assess the availability of antibiotics in general and find out what you can get right away and post those with the strength in milligrams. Also, an accurate and current weight of Squeaky is essential!
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
Thank you for your call to the other vet, seriously your help and everyone else's is so appreciated. I will send a message to my vet and see if he can get me some medicine that u listed! Does this need a prescription? If not, I can possibly pick up from another pet store! I suspected a infection too, just didn't think of pus. The x rays show no odontoma, both vets said that have seen them. Besides the small one forming in the one bottom tooth. They both said the roots and everything look good. Dr peters is the next go to apparently after Dr Emerson I have heard and he has replied to emails and helped me a little, but because his teeth are growing thicker, wider, and the bottoms are a little different length, possibly he caught an infection. Any antibiotic would probably help.
SamtheSquirrel2018
05-08-2023, 12:04 PM
Thank you for your call to the other vet, seriously your help and everyone else's is so appreciated. I will send a message to my vet and see if he can get me some medicine that u listed! Does this need a prescription? If not, I can possibly pick up from another pet store! I suspected a infection too, just didn't think of pus. The x rays show no odontoma, both vets said that have seen them. Besides the small one forming in the one bottom tooth. They both said the roots and everything look good. Dr peters is the next go to apparently after Dr Emerson I have heard and he has replied to emails and helped me a little, but because his teeth are growing thicker, wider, and the bottoms are a little different length, possibly he caught an infection. Any antibiotic would probably help.
Hi Bean:
Please try to get human or Veterinary Grade antibiotics and preferable Amoxicillin plus Clavulanate! If your Vet would write a prescription that would be tremendous! Please encourage him to do so ASAP! Augmentin (the brand) and Amoxicillin plus Clavulanate (the generic) are very commonly prescribed and I'm certain that is true in Canada as well! Also try for that through family or friends but try for anything!
I still have not heard back from Summertree.
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
SamtheSquirrel2018
05-08-2023, 12:06 PM
Charley Chuckles won't mind😂
:grin3
SamtheSquirrel2018
05-08-2023, 01:15 PM
Hi Bean:
I just heard back from Summertree! Mostly good news! I talked with Janna who talked with their Veterinarians. The Vets agreed to talk with your Vet but not directly with you. They will need to have all of the records including notes and x-ray studies and that can be sent by email. Here is a link to the Summertree Website ( https://summertreevet.com ) and here is a link to the Summertree Contact page where there is a phone number and email access ( https://summertreevet.com/contact/ ).
Please let your Vet know and ask him to contact Summertree ASAP assuming you still want that done which I would certainly recommend!
Was your Vet able to write the prescription for Squeaky?
Please keep us updated!
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
Hi Bean:
I just heard back from Summertree! Mostly good news! I talked with Janna who talked with their Veterinarians. The Vets agreed to talk with your Vet but not directly with you. They will need to have all of the records including notes and x-ray studies and that can be sent by email. Here is a link to the Summertree Website ( https://summertreevet.com ) and here is a link to the Summertree Contact page where there is a phone number and email access ( https://summertreevet.com/contact/ ).
Please let your Vet know and ask him to contact Summertree ASAP assuming you still want that done which I would certainly recommend!
Was your Vet able to write the prescription for Squeaky?
Please keep us updated!
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
Thank u so much! I sent my vet an email and I still haven't heard back yet! I am trying to get a hold of him,
I would rather get veterinary medicine for him, so I hope he hurries and gets back to me!
SamtheSquirrel2018
05-09-2023, 04:24 AM
Hi Bean:
I sent a Private Message to you.
How is Squeaky doing today?
I hope that your Vet has been agreeable to expeditiously get an antibiotic prescription for Squeaky. Again, Amoxicillin plus Clavulanate is as close to an ideal antibiotic for mouth and dental infections as we have available for oral use! I would recommend this particular antibiotic!
I also hope that your Vet will be able to contact one of the Vets at Summertree today (ASAP) for a consultation in Squeaky's behalf!.
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
Hello, he vet hasn't responded to me yet :( I think I have annoyed them, I been messaging them like every second or 3rd day with more since like April. If they don't respond a little later today, I'm going to Facebook message them and ask what is up. My baby yesterday seemed ok, only sneezed maybe twice, and no discharge from eyes or nose and he was all over the place playing. Then today, more sneezes, when he sniffs really fast at food, he sounds a bit nasally and he sneezes a ton. He seems to always be worse in the mornings but then is ok the rest of the day most times, except the time he had white stuff coming from his mouth. his sneezing and nasally sound when sniffing, is off and on. And is that just 1 medication? Just has both in it? Or is that 2 separate medications? I hope my vet will get back to me and help me out!
CritterMom
05-09-2023, 10:21 AM
First, Amoxicillin Clavulanate is ONE medicine, and is branded for veterinary use under the name Clavamox. Since it is available as a generic at less cost than the "brand name", that is what most people end up with.
Second, and this is only an old broad advising a probably much younger person: Don't text, don't tweet, don't FB, don't message, CALL them with your own voice and speak to a human being real time. It is way, WAY harder to ignore a person you are actually speaking to. Don't be nasty or demanding, just tell them what is going on and ask for their help. If you don't hear anything back, CALL AGAIN. Leave a reasonable time between calls - a half a day, but keep calling them and being understanding and polite and eventually, the front desk staff will get the vet to CALL YOU BACK if only to stop getting your polite calls.
There is a shortage of veterinarians and no shortage of pets that need them right now. Most people don't know how HARD it is to become a vet - you need better grades in more science based subjects than you do to get into medical school...and you make less money. All of that means that there are now more people fighting for the attention of each vet. And that means you have to be willing to fight your way through those people and get YOUR animal taken care of.
SamtheSquirrel2018
05-09-2023, 10:36 AM
Hello, he vet hasn't responded to me yet :( I think I have annoyed them, I been messaging them like every second or 3rd day with more since like April. If they don't respond a little later today, I'm going to Facebook message them and ask what is up. My baby yesterday seemed ok, only sneezed maybe twice, and no discharge from eyes or nose and he was all over the place playing. Then today, more sneezes, when he sniffs really fast at food, he sounds a bit nasally and he sneezes a ton. He seems to always be worse in the mornings but then is ok the rest of the day most times, except the time he had white stuff coming from his mouth. his sneezing and nasally sound when sniffing, is off and on. And is that just 1 medication? Just has both in it? Or is that 2 separate medications? I hope my vet will get back to me and help me out!
He Bean:
I too, wish that your Vet would get back with you! Did you specifiy in your request email to your Vet the that you had two specific requests and that you were not emailing them with general concerns? This sometimes makes a big difference and if you make specific requests it is often easier to make a quick response back to you regarding the specific requests rather than him trying to figure out one more time so-to-speak how to get you and Squeaky feeling better! I would suggest contacting your Vet again and try to reach the office as well state that you have two specific requests that you would like granted ASAP; the first would for a prescription for Clavamox (the Veterinary brand of the generic of Amoxicillin plus Clavulanate [the generic is also available] and the other would be for him to contact the Summertree Vet for a consult.
Further, if I could again give you my opinion, I would prioritize the antibiotics and getting started on them immediately and limit this new communication to your Vet to this only! Once you get the antibiotics started you can ask for him to contact Summertree. This consult will requires some scheduling logistics on both sides and is unlikely to be immediately forthcoming and may likely take several days to schedule and come to fruition and this should not interfere with getting Squeaky started on the Clavamox thjis can be of significant potential benefit for oral/dental infections which again, IMHO, is what is currently the major issue with Squeaky!
To help your Vet; probably only one or two tablets is all that will be necessary but I would just tell the Vet that you would like a 10 day prescription for Clavamox (Amoxicillin plus Clavulanate) and he can write on the prescription "use as directed" if he is not familiar with diluting, mixing, and dosing this medication for Squirrels and in that case, we can help you with this! I feel it is essential to begin the antibiotic now! And, yes to your question about Amoxicillin plus Clavulanate being one medication. It is a combination of two drugs but it is considered a single medication! You do NOT need a prescription for both components!
I also wanted to let you know that I have been on vacation but I will be back to work this evening and will have less time available on TSB but I will still be available irregularly each day. There are many others here on TSB who are far more experienced than I and far brighter as well, and they will help you also!
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
SamtheSquirrel2018
05-09-2023, 11:39 AM
Thanks CM! Once again, I was typing in my usual slow and hesitant manner while you were posting a clear concise and rapidly composed post! Thanks for helping!
StS
He Bean:
I too, wish that your Vet would get back with you! Did you specifiy in your request email to your Vet the that you had two specific requests and that you were not emailing them with general concerns? This sometimes makes a big difference and if you make specific requests it is often easier to make a quick response back to you regarding the specific requests rather than him trying to figure out one more time so-to-speak how to get you and Squeaky feeling better! I would suggest contacting your Vet again and try to reach the office as well state that you have two specific requests that you would like granted ASAP; the first would for a prescription for Clavamox (the Veterinary brand of the generic of Amoxicillin plus Clavulanate [the generic is also available] and the other would be for him to contact the Summertree Vet for a consult.
Further, if I could again give you my opinion, I would prioritize the antibiotics and getting started on them immediately and limit this new communication to your Vet to this only! Once you get the antibiotics started you can ask for him to contact Summertree. This consult will requires some scheduling logistics on both sides and is unlikely to be immediately forthcoming and may likely take several days to schedule and come to fruition and this should not interfere with getting Squeaky started on the Clavamox thjis can be of significant potential benefit for oral/dental infections which again, IMHO, is what is currently the major issue with Squeaky!
To help your Vet; probably only one or two tablets is all that will be necessary but I would just tell the Vet that you would like a 10 day prescription for Clavamox (Amoxicillin plus Clavulanate) and he can write on the prescription "use as directed" if he is not familiar with diluting, mixing, and dosing this medication for Squirrels and in that case, we can help you with this! I feel it is essential to begin the antibiotic now! And, yes to your question about Amoxicillin plus Clavulanate being one medication. It is a combination of two drugs but it is considered a single medication! You do NOT need a prescription for both components!
I also wanted to let you know that I have been on vacation but I will be back to work this evening and will have less time available on TSB but I will still be available irregularly each day. There are many others here on TSB who are far more experienced than I and far brighter as well, and they will help you also!
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
Thank u for all your opinions and help with my baby! He still hasn't replied to me, I sent the messages to him and the reception and the Facebook message! Still no reply! I am terrible on a phone but I did try calling and no answer there either! I'm getting annoyed cuz it's been 4 days! And honestly I think they are annoyed with me because I have been messaging and calling and taking him in a bunch since April. I have been polite in all my messages and apologized for messaging a lot but said he doesn't seem to be doing well. My vet did tell me if I had any questions to ask and don't be shy and told me to let him know what the other vet says when I showed him the x rays so he can hear his opinions so I'm not sure why he isn't replying.
Charley Chuckles
05-09-2023, 06:19 PM
So do you think they have your number on caller ID? Any chance of using someone else's phone or how far is the drive to just go see them in person🤷
Prayers continue for darling Squeaky 🙏
SamtheSquirrel2018
05-09-2023, 06:37 PM
Thank u for all your opinions and help with my baby! He still hasn't replied to me, I sent the messages to him and the reception and the Facebook message! Still no reply! I am terrible on a phone but I did try calling and no answer there either! I'm getting annoyed cuz it's been 4 days! And honestly I think they are annoyed with me because I have been messaging and calling and taking him in a bunch since April. I have been polite in all my messages and apologized for messaging a lot but said he doesn't seem to be doing well. My vet did tell me if I had any questions to ask and don't be shy and told me to let him know what the other vet says when I showed him the x rays so he can hear his opinions so I'm not sure why he isn't replying.
Hi Bean:
Did you try to call the Vet's office directly?!? I just called the office number listed on your Discharge Summaries with my caller ID blocked and the receptionist answered immediately although I was placed on hold. I did hang up because I was of course not authorized to to discuss Squeaky's case with them and I don't know if your Vet is actually there currently but the receptionist did state that they were open and there must be a Vet there if so! Please try again! Maybe use you Caller ID block or another phone as CC suggested.
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
Hi Bean:
Did you try to call the Vet's office directly?!? I just called the office number listed on your Discharge Summaries with my caller ID blocked and the receptionist answered immediately although I was placed on hold. I did hang up because I was of course not authorized to to discuss Squeaky's case with them and I don't know if your Vet is actually there currently but the receptionist did state that they were open and there must be a Vet there if so! Please try again! Maybe use you Caller ID block or another phone as CC suggested.
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
I did call but they must have been busy, but I just got a reply back on Facebook, they told me the Dr doesn't work weekends, he was busy today and doesn't work Mondays n will relay my message and hope he can see the email I left. I mentioned I could pick up meds tomorrow if they would prescribe them for me. They are about a hour drive from me, and I work all day on roofs. I work in the city they are in for the most part but sometimes gets sent the opposite direction so it's not always available to go up there to talk to them. I hope I'm doing a job in the city tomorrow, otherwise il have to have them send me a prescription and I will go pick up the meds at another place.
SamtheSquirrel2018
05-09-2023, 09:00 PM
I did call but they must have been busy, but I just got a reply back on Facebook, they told me the Dr doesn't work weekends, he was busy today and doesn't work Mondays n will relay my message and hope he can see the email I left. I mentioned I could pick up meds tomorrow if they would prescribe them for me. They are about a hour drive from me, and I work all day on roofs. I work in the city they are in for the most part but sometimes gets sent the opposite direction so it's not always available to go up there to talk to them. I hope I'm doing a job in the city tomorrow, otherwise il have to have them send me a prescription and I will go pick up the meds at another place.
That sounds great! The Vet can call in the prescription for Squeaky to any pharmacy you want if he is not going to simply give you the medication. They may write instructions for the pharmacy to prepare by the antibiotic by accurately diluting it in specific amount of water IF your Vet knows the dosing for Squirrels and can direct the pharmacy on how to prepare it. Most Veterinarians do not do this and it would be fine and maybe even preferred (as you will have extra pills) to prepare it yourself. We will give you detailed instructions on diluting, mixing, and dosing the medication. Please obtain at least one 1cc syringe (withOUT a needle) with which to administer the medication to Squeaky. Two so you will have an extra would be prudent. You will also need an accurate weight of Squeaky preferably in grams. Do you have a digital scale or might your Vet have obtained an accurate weight of Squeaky when you brought him in? One of the admins will need to help you with the preparation and dosing of the antibiotic. Once you get the prescription immediately post what it is and the strength in milligrams of each tablet or capsule. Only a very small amount of the antibiotic is needed for each dose. Again, the antibiotic I would suggest is Amoxicillin plus Clavulanate. Clavamox is the Veterinary brand of this but as CritterMom mentioned, the generic usually will save you some money.
Please let us know how this go tomorrow and as soon as you get the medication, post it and the strength and Squeaky's current and accurate weight! Thanks!
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
That sounds great! The Vet can call in the prescription for Squeaky to any pharmacy you want if he is not going to simply give you the medication. They may write instructions for the pharmacy to prepare by the antibiotic by accurately diluting it in specific amount of water IF your Vet knows the dosing for Squirrels and can direct the pharmacy on how to prepare it. Most Veterinarians do not do this and it would be fine and maybe even preferred (as you will have extra pills) to prepare it yourself. We will give you detailed instructions on diluting, mixing, and dosing the medication. Please obtain at least one 1cc syringe (withOUT a needle) with which to administer the medication to Squeaky. Two so you will have an extra would be prudent. You will also need an accurate weight of Squeaky preferably in grams. Do you have a digital scale or might your Vet have obtained an accurate weight of Squeaky when you brought him in? One of the admins will need to help you with the preparation and dosing of the antibiotic. Once you get the prescription immediately post what it is and the strength in milligrams of each tablet or capsule. Only a very small amount of the antibiotic is needed for each dose. Again, the antibiotic I would suggest is Amoxicillin plus Clavulanate. Clavamox is the Veterinary brand of this but as CritterMom mentioned, the generic usually will save you some money.
Please let us know how this go tomorrow and as soon as you get the medication, post it and the strength and Squeaky's current and accurate weight! Thanks!
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
Squeaky hasn't been milky in the eye or having fluid come out of the mouth since that day I mentioned.now he just has wierd and big breathing movements, mostly when I just walk in..but then goes normal. If he doesn't have an infection, and I get him on the meds, will they make him sick or anything? I still suspect he may have an infection too of some sort somewhere. But just curious, if he doesn't have one, will it make him worse?
Charley Chuckles
05-10-2023, 08:04 AM
If what you'll be giving is antibiotics it shouldn't hurt him at all. Truly it sounds like he needs them👍
SamtheSquirrel2018
05-10-2023, 08:08 AM
Squeaky hasn't been milky in the eye or having fluid come out of the mouth since that day I mentioned.now he just has wierd and big breathing movements, mostly when I just walk in..but then goes normal. If he doesn't have an infection, and I get him on the meds, will they make him sick or anything? I still suspect he may have an infection too of some sort somewhere. But just curious, if he doesn't have one, will it make him worse?
Hi Bean:
There are risks and potential adverse effects with use of any antibiotics (or any medication for that mater). It has nothing to do with whether or not the condition that is being presumptively treated is really present or not! Your question is really one of risks versus benefits! IF the condition that is being treated is NOT present, than there are no potential benefits and it is all risk! If the condition is present, than it is necessary to weigh the risks versus the benefits. The other weighing of risks and benefits is if you are not certain that the condition is really present; is there enough evidence to suggest that the condition does exist to treat it or are the risks of not treating potentially worse than those of treating if it really is not certain that the condition exists. These are considerations that Veterinarians and Physicians deal with every single day! Risks with use of Amoxicillin plus Clavulanate include gut disturbances, allergy, and change in gut bacterial balance (you can use some probiotics and or yogurt to help with this) among many others. Ideally, Amoxicillin plus clavulanate (Clavamox) should be given with food or around the time when Squeaky has eaten recently. Potential benefits of using this antibiotic are curing an infection, preventing spread of the infection to the bone or elsewhere or even into the blood, possibly helping to prevent abscess development, providing more time in which Squeaky could be reevaluated for dental problems or other problems among others! The decision of course is yours (and the Vet's of course!)! One the things that may help your Vet with prescribing is that he can give you a prescription for a certain number of tablets or capsules or powder and simply specify in the instructions section of the prescription (the section that begins with "Sig" the following or something similar; " use orally twice daily for 10 day as instructed." That will allow you to get diluting/mixing instructions here on the TSB for the medication. Again, it is essential if you are going to opt for the antibiotics and the Vet is willing to write the prescription that it be done ASAP. Please immediately post the antibiotic, its strength, and Squeaky's current weight in your thread to allow one of our Admins or others who formulate mixing and dosing instructions to get that done for you. Also, as a reminder, you will need at least one 1cc syringe without a needle for administering the medication.
I will be working most of the day and this evening but will try to check in to TSB as I am able.
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
Hi Bean:
There are risks and potential adverse effects with use of any antibiotics (or any medication for that mater). It has nothing to do with whether or not the condition that is being presumptively treated is really present or not! Your question is really one of risks versus benefits! IF the condition that is being treated is NOT present, than there are no potential benefits and it is all risk! If the condition is present, than it is necessary to weigh the risks versus the benefits. The other weighing of risks and benefits is if you are not certain that the condition is really present; is there enough evidence to suggest that the condition does exist to treat it or are the risks of not treating potentially worse than those of treating if it really is not certain that the condition exists. These are considerations that Veterinarians and Physicians deal with every single day! Risks with use of Amoxicillin plus Clavulanate include gut disturbances, allergy, and change in gut bacterial balance (you can use some probiotics and or yogurt to help with this) among many others. Ideally, Amoxicillin plus clavulanate (Clavamox) should be given with food or around the time when Squeaky has eaten recently. Potential benefits of using this antibiotic are curing an infection, preventing spread of the infection to the bone or elsewhere or even into the blood, possibly helping to prevent abscess development, providing more time in which Squeaky could be reevaluated for dental problems or other problems among others! The decision of course is yours (and the Vet's of course!)! One the things that may help your Vet with prescribing is that he can give you a prescription for a certain number of tablets or capsules or powder and simply specify in the instructions section of the prescription (the section that begins with "Sig" the following or something similar; " use orally twice daily for 10 day as instructed." That will allow you to get diluting/mixing instructions here on the TSB for the medication. Again, it is essential if you are going to opt for the antibiotics and the Vet is willing to write the prescription that it be done ASAP. Please immediately post the antibiotic, its strength, and Squeaky's current weight in your thread to allow one of our Admins or others who formulate mixing and dosing instructions to get that done for you. Also, as a reminder, you will need at least one 1cc syringe without a needle for administering the medication.
I will be working most of the day and this evening but will try to check in to TSB as I am able.
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
My vet just called me, he just told me I need to be careful listening to others on the internet just because some things are pretty dangerous. He told me that that specific medication isn't much liked to be prescribed because it can cause diarrhea in rodents and make them sick. But he is going to prescribe me an antibiotic for a dental infection which is good for pus and everything. He looked into their anatomy and said they can not throw up, so he figured that could be pus as well. And he said he was more than happy to do a consultation with summertree as well! I gave him the information. Thank u for all your help!
SamtheSquirrel2018
05-10-2023, 06:35 PM
My vet just called me, he just told me I need to be careful listening to others on the internet just because some things are pretty dangerous. He told me that that specific medication isn't much liked to be prescribed because it can cause diarrhea in rodents and make them sick. But he is going to prescribe me an antibiotic for a dental infection which is good for pus and everything. He looked into their anatomy and said they can not throw up, so he figured that could be pus as well. And he said he was more than happy to do a consultation with summertree as well! I gave him the information. Thank u for all your help!
Hi Bean:
The relationship you have with your Veterinarian is most important. There are some Veterinarians here on TSB and some very experienced Rehabbers and literally thousands of Squirrels and their people have been help here, including myself! I can say with certainty that there is NEVER any intent here on TSB to come between a Squirrel and his or her Veterinarian! You are very fortunate to have a Veterinarian who is interested in Squirrels and willing to take care of them professionally! Often we want to and try to refer members here on TSB to a Veterinarian and find most often that this is impossible for various reasons. Again, I'm glad that your Veterinarian is accessible and involved!! That is also great news to hear that your Vet will discuss Squeaky's case with the Summertree Vet. Also, Dr. E will be back in her office on Monday and may be willing to review Squeaky's x-ray films and records and make suggestions. If you don't mind, please post the antibiotic your Vet prescribed. Is it going to be prepared by a pharmacist or will you need mixing and dosing instructions? Please keep posting updates! We always like to hear how the Squirrels we become involved with or hear about on TSB are doing!
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
Hi Bean:
The relationship you have with your Veterinarian is most important. There are some Veterinarians here on TSB and some very experienced Rehabbers and literally thousands of Squirrels and their people have been help here, including myself! I can say with certainty that there is NEVER any intent here on TSB to come between a Squirrel and his or her Veterinarian! You are very fortunate to have a Veterinarian who is interested in Squirrels and willing to take care of them professionally! Often we want to and try to refer members here on TSB to a Veterinarian and find most often that this is impossible for various reasons. Again, I'm glad that your Veterinarian is accessible and involved!! That is also great news to hear that your Vet will discuss Squeaky's case with the Summertree Vet. Also, Dr. E will be back in her office on Monday and may be willing to review Squeaky's x-ray films and records and make suggestions. If you don't mind, please post the antibiotic your Vet prescribed. Is it going to be prepared by a pharmacist or will you need mixing and dosing instructions? Please keep posting updates! We always like to hear how the Squirrels we become involved with or hear about on TSB are doing!
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
This is the medication he prescribed squeaky and the dosage. I don't know anything bout this medication, but seems like a lot for such a little guy. I will post updates how he is doing on this medication.
Please tell me someone has used this chlorpalm before on squirrels. 14 days 2wice a day seems like a lot. Specially cuz when I looked it up, it says for people to stop giving the medication if nothing is noticed because it can cause issues
SamtheSquirrel2018
05-10-2023, 09:40 PM
Please tell me someone has used this chlorpalm before on squirrels. 14 days 2wice a day seems like a lot. Specially cuz when I looked it up, it says for people to stop giving the medication if nothing is noticed because it can cause issues
Hi Bean:
I'm not surprised that you have some reservations about using this medication. I had not heard of this brand so I had to research it on-line. Chlorpalm is a brand of an antibiotic called Chloramphenicol. Apparently it is approved for use in dogs and horses as far as the veterinary venue goes. It is off-label for cats, rodents and other animals. It is not without significant concerns. There may be someone on TSB who is familiar with this medication and has experience using it in Squirrels but I rather doubt it! In human medicine, it is not a first-line drug for anything and there would be no reason to use this medication except in what is an almost unheard of situation where a bacterium that was causing an infection was resistant to all other usually effective medications and that chloramphenicol was the only antibiotic that happened to be effective. I can state in regard to medication used in Rodents, Chlorampyhenicol is not a first-line medication for anything. A common view in all of medicine, Veterinary or human, is that for empiric antibiotic treatment (this is treatment undertaken based upon likelihood of a particular condition existing, a clinician's experience, and logic supporting this presumptive condition existing without other definitive evidence being available to render a definitive diagnosis), first-line drugs should be utilized first. This is the essential meaning of a first-line drug! By the way, there is a huge experiential database here on the Squirrel Board and elsewhere for the use of Amoxicillin plus Clavulanate in Squirrels. Amoxicillin + Clavulanate, SMZ-TMP, enrofloxacin and a number of other medications can be considered first-line drugs for Squirrels. Of course this depends upon the nature of a particular Squirrel's likely condition. Bean, like you, I have reservations about this course of treatment! Maybe other on TSB will have some comments and/or suggestions. I am at work and will check back as soon as I am able.
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
Hi Bean:
I'm not surprised that you have some reservations about using this medication. I had not heard of this brand so I had to research it on-line. Chlorpalm is a brand of an antibiotic called Chloramphenicol. Apparently it is approved for use in dogs and horses as far as the veterinary venue goes. It is off-label for cats, rodents and other animals. It is not without significant concerns. There may be someone on TSB who is familiar with this medication and has experience using it in Squirrels but I rather doubt it! In human medicine, it is not a first-line drug for anything and there would be no reason to use this medication except in what is an almost unheard of situation where a bacterium that was causing an infection was resistant to all other usually effective medications and that chloramphenicol was the only antibiotic that happened to be effective. I can state in regard to medication used in Rodents, Chlorampyhenicol is not a first-line medication for anything. A common view in all of medicine, Veterinary or human, is that for empiric antibiotic treatment (this is treatment undertaken based upon likelihood of a particular condition existing, a clinician's experience, and logic supporting this presumptive condition existing without other definitive evidence being available to render a definitive diagnosis), first-line drugs should be utilized first. This is the essential meaning of a first-line drug! By the way, there is a huge experiential database here on the Squirrel Board and elsewhere for the use of Amoxicillin plus Clavulanate in Squirrels. Amoxicillin + Clavulanate, SMZ-TMP, enrofloxacin and a number of other medications can be considered first-line drugs for Squirrels. Of course this depends upon the nature of a particular Squirrel's likely condition. Bean, like you, I have reservations about this course of treatment! Maybe other on TSB will have some comments and/or suggestions. I am at work and will check back as soon as I am able.
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
Yea I know, I looked it up and found it is risky and worries me giving it to him. I wonder why he wouldn't give me the other stuff....I talked to the rehabber I talk to as well and she said that is clavamox and she gives it to her squirrels whenever needed..I did give squeaky a little bit, I didn't give him the 0.2ml I gave less, and I'm not sure I want to continue it...squeaky has been ok in the last 2 days now. He looks healthy, nothin coming from his mouth and no white in his eyes, but the occasional sneezing still. I'm worried the medicine will cause something n I just wanna monitor how he does for the whole night now but can't. Il check on him in the morning, but I definitely am not giving him the medication every 12 hours for the next 14 days...even in cats and dogs, it says not to give too much cuz it can cause serious problems. They even told me I have to wear gloves when dealing with it cuz it absorbs fast into the skin and can cause some sort of health problem. I hope squeak does ok after taking this..
Here's how squeaky looks right now. So much better looking.
SamtheSquirrel2018
05-10-2023, 10:50 PM
Here's how squeaky looks right now. So much better looking.
Hi Squeaky. You are a handsome little Squirrel! He sure looks healthy, Bean!
Regards,
StS
SamtheSquirrel2018
05-10-2023, 10:53 PM
Yea I know, I looked it up and found it is risky and worries me giving it to him. I wonder why he wouldn't give me the other stuff....I talked to the rehabber I talk to as well and she said that is clavamox and she gives it to her squirrels whenever needed..I did give squeaky a little bit, I didn't give him the 0.2ml I gave less, and I'm not sure I want to continue it...squeaky has been ok in the last 2 days now. He looks healthy, nothin coming from his mouth and no white in his eyes, but the occasional sneezing still. I'm worried the medicine will cause something n I just wanna monitor how he does for the whole night now but can't. Il check on him in the morning, but I definitely am not giving him the medication every 12 hours for the next 14 days...even in cats and dogs, it says not to give too much cuz it can cause serious problems. They even told me I have to wear gloves when dealing with it cuz it absorbs fast into the skin and can cause some sort of health problem. I hope squeak does ok after taking this..
Will your Rehabber be able to get some Clavamox for you? Have you checked with friends and family about the possibility of any of them having Augmentin or the generic, amoxicillin + clavulanate lying around at home? You will not need much!
StS
Will your Rehabber be able to get some Clavamox for you? Have you checked with friends and family about the possibility of any of them having Augmentin or the generic, amoxicillin + clavulanate lying around at home? You will not need much!
StS
My rehabber is also in the states :( she helped me through everything over messages. And squeaky seemed immediately worse after putting him on that medication :( sneezing a ton, very nasally sounding, milky eye which did go away for the past few days now, came back when he sneezed and then went away again, and he seemed open mouth gasping almost...I sat and watched him eat for a bit, and it tapered off and was ok again, still a little sneezy and nasally but I'm not giving him that medication anymore. Last few days before that seemed he was doin way better. Was still sneezing but I didn't notice the milky eye, or any nasally sound. I sent the message I posted here about the medications to Dr peters as well to see what he says, I'm gonna relay the symptoms to my vet and jow he immediately got worse. Even his poops were really soft.
SamtheSquirrel2018
05-11-2023, 08:02 AM
My rehabber is also in the states :( she helped me through everything over messages. And squeaky seemed immediately worse after putting him on that medication :( sneezing a ton, very nasally sounding, milky eye which did go away for the past few days now, came back when he sneezed and then went away again, and he seemed open mouth gasping almost...I sat and watched him eat for a bit, and it tapered off and was ok again, still a little sneezy and nasally but I'm not giving him that medication anymore. Last few days before that seemed he was doin way better. Was still sneezing but I didn't notice the milky eye, or any nasally sound. I sent the message I posted here about the medications to Dr peters as well to see what he says, I'm gonna relay the symptoms to my vet and jow he immediately got worse. Even his poops were really soft.
Hi Bean:
I still strongly suspect a dental infection. I don't believe that the chloranphenicol made the symptoms return, I just believe that the infection is smoldering and the signs are intermittent currently. Again, I, just like you have great reservations about using chloramphenicol for treatment of a Squirrel under any circumstances!
I wish you could get the Amoxicillin plus Clavulanate. and get it ASAP! Maybe your Vet would reconsider and write the prescription for this Amoxicillin plus Clavulanate if you tell him your concerns and that you do NOT want to use the chloramphenicol anyway. Also that most everyone rehabbing Squirrels and rodents use Amoxicillin plus Clavulanate as a FIRST-LINE medication for oral and dental infections and have been doing so for decades and the experiential database for its safe and effective use for these diagnoses in Squirrels is truly immense as well as being consistently favorable! Please try! Call the office!
Thanks,
SamtheSquirrel
Hi Bean:
I still strongly suspect a dental infection. I don't believe that the chloranphenicol made the symptoms return, I just believe that the infection is smoldering and the signs are intermittent currently. Again, I, just like you have great reservations about using chloramphenicol for treatment of a Squirrel under any circumstances!
I wish you could get the Amoxicillin plus Clavulanate. and get it ASAP! Maybe your Vet would reconsider and write the prescription for this Amoxicillin plus Clavulanate if you tell him your concerns and that you do NOT want to use the chloramphenicol anyway. Also that most everyone rehabbing Squirrels and rodents use Amoxicillin plus Clavulanate as a FIRST-LINE medication for oral and dental infections and have been doing so for decades and the experiential database for its safe and effective use for these diagnoses in Squirrels is truly immense consistently favorable! Please try! Call the office!
Thanks,
SamtheSquirrel
This is why I messaged the other vet, I mentioned what my vet said about the meds u recommended, and also asked about the one he gave me..the last medications I asked for were the meds Dr peters recommended and squeaky got way better on them, if I can get Dr peters to agree on that medication, he may reconsider. It's because the people on here aren't doctors so he's worried I'm just taking anything off the internet. I haven't read much good about the medication he gave me. And when I looked up the one u said, It says it's recommended right on Google. I just want him better :( I hope Dr peters gets back to me fast. Cuz he wasn't doin as good today, way worse than yesterday
Hi Bean:
I still strongly suspect a dental infection. I don't believe that the chloranphenicol made the symptoms return, I just believe that the infection is smoldering and the signs are intermittent currently. Again, I, just like you have great reservations about using chloramphenicol for treatment of a Squirrel under any circumstances!
I wish you could get the Amoxicillin plus Clavulanate. and get it ASAP! Maybe your Vet would reconsider and write the prescription for this Amoxicillin plus Clavulanate if you tell him your concerns and that you do NOT want to use the chloramphenicol anyway. Also that most everyone rehabbing Squirrels and rodents use Amoxicillin plus Clavulanate as a FIRST-LINE medication for oral and dental infections and have been doing so for decades and the experiential database for its safe and effective use for these diagnoses in Squirrels is truly immense as well as being consistently favorable! Please try! Call the office!
Thanks,
SamtheSquirrel
This is what Dr peters said:
I assume Chloramphenicol? I have used it in Squirrels including Karon’s.
Maybe your vet could culture some of the discharge? Clavamox is a possibility- I don’t use it often in Squirrels but I do know a lot of people use it. I’m hesitant with some of the side effects in Squirrels, but it can be used.
SamtheSquirrel2018
05-11-2023, 06:20 PM
This is what Dr peters said:
I assume Chloramphenicol? I have used it in Squirrels including Karon’s.
Maybe your vet could culture some of the discharge? Clavamox is a possibility- I don’t use it often in Squirrels but I do know a lot of people use it. I’m hesitant with some of the side effects in Squirrels, but it can be used.
Hi Bean:
Is Dr. Peters willing to write a prescription? Do you think your Vet might reconsider and write a prescription for a different antibiotic? How is Squeaky doing?
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
Hi Bean:
Is Dr. Peters willing to write a prescription? Do you think your Vet might reconsider and write a prescription for a different antibiotic? How is Squeaky doing?
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
I am sure dr Peters would write me a prescription, but he isn't allowed to write one in the states to Canada. :( But my vet does listen to him and agree with his decisions, I sent him dr Peters email today and he agreed with him, this is what he said to me. I was sent to work the opposite direction over 2 hours and I got a call that it is ready for pickup, so I have to pick up tomorrow and they will re administer the one dr Peters suggested.
I'm not sure yet how squeaky is doin, I hope he is ok. I had to go to work but I sat and watched him for 10-15 mins before I had to leave for work this morning, and he did settle down a bit on the sneezing and all that. So I will update as soon as I get back home! And hopefully tomorrow on the new medication, he will do much better
Hi Bean:
Is Dr. Peters willing to write a prescription? Do you think your Vet might reconsider and write a prescription for a different antibiotic? How is Squeaky doing?
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
Squeaky seems to be doing ok, still a bit of milky eyes though, but he's running around and playing a lot and not breathing wierd
SamtheSquirrel2018
05-11-2023, 10:22 PM
Squeaky seems to be doing ok, still a bit of milky eyes though, but he's running around and playing a lot and not breathing wierd
Thanks Bean. Please on with the updates!
Regards,
StS
Charley Chuckles
05-12-2023, 07:01 AM
🙏🙏🙏
Thanks Bean. Please on with the updates!
Regards,
StS
So squeaky looks better today, no milky eyes that I seen, and maybe 2 sneezes so far. He did have white stuff come out of his mouth a little yesterday a few hours after the medication, maybe it is caused from that. He did have really wierd breathing movements in the morning again when I came in, always sitting on his tree and his whole body moves really big when breathing for a few seconds, but I believe it's an excitement thing cuz he doesn't do it after a few seconds, he sits there, breathes wierd and then jumps on the cage wall and squeaks and goes nuts while breathing normal. I put him in his outside enclosure today so he could get some sun to see if it helps him a bit, he still doesn't like going outside and freezes up lol. But he's doin good so far.
SamtheSquirrel2018
05-15-2023, 07:54 PM
Hi Bean:
How is little Squeaky doing? I hope all is going well for him! I've missed hearing about Squeaky!
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
Hi Bean:
How is little Squeaky doing? I hope all is going well for him! I've missed hearing about Squeaky!
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
He has been doing way better. Since the new medication, I haven't seen anything bad other than a couple sneezes here and there, normally when he's cleaning his face.. his poor little teeth are getting long fast, gonna have to take him in for a trim again soon. The top gap is so wide between them his bottom ones go between them. Other than that, he's doin good at the moment. I hope the medication cures his little issue
SamtheSquirrel2018
05-16-2023, 09:46 PM
He has been doing way better. Since the new medication, I haven't seen anything bad other than a couple sneezes here and there, normally when he's cleaning his face.. his poor little teeth are getting long fast, gonna have to take him in for a trim again soon. The top gap is so wide between them his bottom ones go between them. Other than that, he's doin good at the moment. I hope the medication cures his little issue
Hi Bean:
It's so good to hear that Squeaky is doing much better! Thanks for the updates! I wish the very best for both you and little Squeaky!
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
Hi Bean:
It's so good to hear that Squeaky is doing much better! Thanks for the updates! I wish the very best for both you and little Squeaky!
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
Thank u :) he was a little nasally again this morning and sneezy, I wonder what else could be causing that. I hope that can go away!
Hi Bean:
It's so good to hear that Squeaky is doing much better! Thanks for the updates! I wish the very best for both you and little Squeaky!
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
Thank you! And no problem! I got a email from the vet yesterday, he said in order for him to do a consultation with summertree, I have to contact them and set up an account for billing and all that? I have to pay for them to discuss squeakys x rays and all that? He also said next time squeaky is in for his teeth trimming, he wants to put a speculum into the back of his mouth to see if there is an abscess or not. He's still got white stuff coming from the mouth. I managed to take a video of a bit of it, I had to bribe him with a pumpkin seed.
SamtheSquirrel2018
05-18-2023, 06:30 PM
Thank you! And no problem! I got a email from the vet yesterday, he said in order for him to do a consultation with summertree, I have to contact them and set up an account for billing and all that? I have to pay for them to discuss squeakys x rays and all that? He also said next time squeaky is in for his teeth trimming, he wants to put a speculum into the back of his mouth to see if there is an abscess or not. He's still got white stuff coming from the mouth. I managed to take a video of a bit of it, I had to bribe him with a pumpkin seed.
Hi Bean:
Just my opinion but I would suspect that both your Vet and the Vet at Summertree may very well consider charging you for their time! I would suggest, if you want to proceed with this; that you call Summertree and talk with Janna as she is the one I talked with and find out if there would be a charge for this and if so, approximately what the charge would be.
Again, my opinion, but I have suspected a dental infection since I first started reading your thread and that is why I had suggested the Amoxicillin + Clavulanate as it is a very good choice for dental infections! This medicine covers most of the likely bacteria involved in dental associated infection; both aerobes (those bacteria that require air/oxygen to grow) and anaerobes (those that grow in the absence of air/oxygen). Dental infections are commonly caused by anaerobic bacteria. I have also remained quite concerned about the "white Stuff coming from the mouth" as this seems to me to most likely be pus. If so, it is probably coming from a draining abscess. This may or may not be easily visible during the planned oral exam. I am glad that your Vet is going to do this, however and again, IMHO, the sooner, the better. Does you Vet have experience with sedation using an inhaled anesthetic such as isoflurane which could help minimize Squeaky's potential distress while undergoing the exam? This does have risks, however!
Bean, are you able to post the pumpkin seed bribed video on YouTube and then post a link to the video in your thread here? TSB does not support directly uploading videos to the Squirrel Board server.
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
Hi Bean:
Just my opinion but I would suspect that both your Vet and the Vet at Summertree may very well consider charging you for their time! I would suggest, if you want to proceed with this; that you call Summertree and talk with Janna as she is the one I talked with and find out if there would be a charge for this and if so, approximately what the charge would be.
Again, my opinion, but I have suspected a dental infection since I first started reading your thread and that is why I had suggested the Amoxicillin + Clavulanate as it is a very good choice for dental infections! This medicine covers most of the likely bacteria involved in dental associated infection; both aerobes (those bacteria that require air/oxygen to grow) and anaerobes (those that grow in the absence of air/oxygen). Dental infections are commonly caused by anaerobic bacteria. I have also remained quite concerned about the "white Stuff coming from the mouth" as this seems to me to most likely be pus. If so, it is probably coming from a draining abscess. This may or may not be easily visible during the planned oral exam. I am glad that your Vet is going to do this, however and again, IMHO, the sooner, the better. Does you Vet have experience with sedation using an inhaled anesthetic such as isoflurane which could help minimize Squeaky's potential distress while undergoing the exam? This does have risks, however!
Bean, are you able to post the pumpkin seed bribed video on YouTube and then post a link to the video in your thread here? TSB does not support directly uploading videos to the Squirrel Board server.
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
All of this is costing me so much money and I don't know what to do! I quit my job to work my seasonal job instead, and then everything happened all at once. I need to make enough money to survive the winter time, and I'm spending so much money, I'm stressed out! :( I spent about $1500 on vet bills already and gotta do continual teeth trimming which he has to be put out for, so costs me a bunch every couple months. I'm not sure what summertree would charge me for something like this?
I'm not sure if he does the inhale anesthesia, he's very hard to get close to for long, specially right now cuz of mating season, he's all chattery, squeaky and attacks..the white stuff still comes out of his mouth every so often, I don't have a YouTube, do u have Facebook and Facebook messanger? I can send it on there?
Hi Bean:
Just my opinion but I would suspect that both your Vet and the Vet at Summertree may very well consider charging you for their time! I would suggest, if you want to proceed with this; that you call Summertree and talk with Janna as she is the one I talked with and find out if there would be a charge for this and if so, approximately what the charge would be.
Again, my opinion, but I have suspected a dental infection since I first started reading your thread and that is why I had suggested the Amoxicillin + Clavulanate as it is a very good choice for dental infections! This medicine covers most of the likely bacteria involved in dental associated infection; both aerobes (those bacteria that require air/oxygen to grow) and anaerobes (those that grow in the absence of air/oxygen). Dental infections are commonly caused by anaerobic bacteria. I have also remained quite concerned about the "white Stuff coming from the mouth" as this seems to me to most likely be pus. If so, it is probably coming from a draining abscess. This may or may not be easily visible during the planned oral exam. I am glad that your Vet is going to do this, however and again, IMHO, the sooner, the better. Does you Vet have experience with sedation using an inhaled anesthetic such as isoflurane which could help minimize Squeaky's potential distress while undergoing the exam? This does have risks, however!
Bean, are you able to post the pumpkin seed bribed video on YouTube and then post a link to the video in your thread here? TSB does not support directly uploading videos to the Squirrel Board server.
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
It also costs me to call the United States or even txt! I had a pretty big phone bill just from txting the one rehabber who's been helping me with stuff
SamtheSquirrel2018
05-18-2023, 10:17 PM
All of this is costing me so much money and I don't know what to do! I quit my job to work my seasonal job instead, and then everything happened all at once. I need to make enough money to survive the winter time, and I'm spending so much money, I'm stressed out! :( I spent about $1500 on vet bills already and gotta do continual teeth trimming which he has to be put out for, so costs me a bunch every couple months. I'm not sure what summertree would charge me for something like this?
I'm not sure if he does the inhale anesthesia, he's very hard to get close to for long, specially right now cuz of mating season, he's all chattery, squeaky and attacks..the white stuff still comes out of his mouth every so often, I don't have a YouTube, do u have Facebook and Facebook messanger? I can send it on there?
You are very conscientious and very caring, Bean! I'm sure Squeaky loves you as you love him! I don't know if Summertree would charge to talk with your Vet and I don't know if your Vet would charge to talk with Summertree. It may be enough to schedule the next tooth trim and the mouth exam and let the Summertree consultation be put "on hold." It does sound like Squeaky is doing better! Assuming that the "white stuff" is pus; at least it is draining which in itself is beneficial! As far as mouth exam to search for an abscess during Squeaky's next teeth trimming, you mentioned that Squeaky "has to be put out for" the trimming so it sounds like your Vet does do sedation and this will aid performing a thorough search for an abscess. You are doing a fine job with Squeaky, Bean! Please don't get discouraged! Just prioritize the things that can be done and do what you can afford and follow the priorities you have established. I truly believe that a priority should be the mouth exam recently proposed by your Vet.
Also, Dr. Alicia Emerson (we talked about her in your thread on May 6th) is back in her office and she may be willing to render her opinion about the x-ray films and Squeaky's condition and current plan without charge. She has done so before. She is a very nice and helpful person and she is also very experienced and knowledgeable Veterinarian specializing in Squirrels and their dental conditions. Many of our members have taken their Squirrels to Dr. Emerson. This may be a better option for a consultation than Summertree at this time. When we first talked about consulting Dr. E, we found that she had gone out of town for two weeks.
Thanks again for what you do for Squeaky!
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
SamtheSquirrel2018
05-18-2023, 10:47 PM
the white stuff still comes out of his mouth every so often, I don't have a YouTube, do u have Facebook and Facebook messanger? I can send it on there?
I don't know what all of the possibilities are for you to upload the video besides YouTube. It would need to be something like YouTube where your video would actually reside on their server. That way, a link to that video coul be posted in your thread and fhis would enable all viewers of your thread to click on that link and view the video.
StS
Chirps
05-18-2023, 11:31 PM
Not sure how it works, but I think that if you can go on YT and comment on videos you watch, you automatically have a YT channel. I found that out by accident. You can upload videos from your phone to your channel, go to your "channel dashboard", and when you go to watch your video the link will be there somewhere, just type the link in your posts here and Voila!
Do you have a "share" feature for videos on your phone? If one of them is to YT and you share to it, you're putting the video on your channel you didn't even know you had. Anyway that's how I found out. You have to title it and check the box as to whether it's "for kids" or not, etc. and then it uploads. At least that's how mine seems to work. If you're connected to google and gmail you seem to be connected to YT whether you want to or not.
Hopefully someone who can explain better will see your thread and comment.
You are very conscientious and very caring, Bean! I'm sure Squeaky loves you as you love him! I don't know if Summertree would charge to talk with your Vet and I don't know if your Vet would charge to talk with Summertree. It may be enough to schedule the next tooth trim and the mouth exam and let the Summertree consultation be put "on hold." It does sound like Squeaky is doing better! Assuming that the "white stuff" is pus; at least it is draining which in itself is beneficial! As far as mouth exam to search for an abscess during Squeaky's next teeth trimming, you mentioned that Squeaky "has to be put out for" the trimming so it sounds like your Vet does do sedation and this will aid performing a thorough search for an abscess. You are doing a fine job with Squeaky, Bean! Please don't get discouraged! Just prioritize the things that can be done and do what you can afford and follow the priorities you have established. I truly believe that a priority should be the mouth exam recently proposed by your Vet.
Also, Dr. Alicia Emerson (we talked about her in your thread on May 6th) is back in her office and she may be willing to render her opinion about the x-ray films and Squeaky's condition and current plan without charge. She has done so before. She is a very nice and helpful person and she is also very experienced and knowledgeable Veterinarian specializing in Squirrels and their dental conditions. Many of our members have taken their Squirrels to Dr. Emerson. This may be a better option for a consultation than Summertree at this time. When we first talked about consulting Dr. E, we found that she had gone out of town for two weeks.
Thanks again for what you do for Squeaky!
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
Thank u, I appreciate it! I love the little guy more than anything. And I'm trying hard to afford everything to help the little peanut, I just hope it works. I will maybe send an email to the vet where dr Emerson is working and see. I tried Facebook messaging her a while ago and she never did respond. And yea I will be taking squeaky in for his teeth trimming in a few weeks and he will check for an abscess.
Thank u, I appreciate it! I love the little guy more than anything. And I'm trying hard to afford everything to help the little peanut, I just hope it works. I will maybe send an email to the vet where dr Emerson is working and see. I tried Facebook messaging her a while ago and she never did respond. And yea I will be taking squeaky in for his teeth trimming in a few weeks and he will check for an abscess.
He's very sneezy and nasally today, I don't know what is wrong :( he jumped on me to eat his avocado and then sneezed a ton and even had snot on his nose. Im at a loss. :( His medication seemed to help, but today he's just very sneezy. Maybe cuz his humidifier ran out of water, I never let It empty but I was busy.
SamtheSquirrel2018
05-21-2023, 07:26 AM
He's very sneezy and nasally today, I don't know what is wrong :( he jumped on me to eat his avocado and then sneezed a ton and even had snot on his nose. Im at a loss. :( His medication seemed to help, but today he's just very sneezy. Maybe cuz his humidifier ran out of water, I never let It empty but I was busy.
Hi Bean:
What a great photo of Squeaky! He is certainly a cute Little Guy! A cool mist vaporizer can be beneficial. I'll give you my opinion (again, this is my opinion!) and that really hasn't changed although I have an additional recommendation that maybe your Vet would consider. I know your Vet is not keen on listening to unknown individuals on the internet (such as myself!) and prefers acting based upon his knowledge and experience as a Vet along with other professional opinion (he is willing to talk with the Summertree Vets). This definitely make for general good sense for most professionals but I also believe that the evidence seems to strongly a dental infection (probably including a draining abscess as the source of the "white fluid"). Also, I'm glad that your Vet is willing to examine Squeaky's moth for definitive evidence of an abscess but this may not be forthcoming as the abscess may be in the root region of the tooth or even to have spread into bone (these are possibilities only, Bean; I am not suggesting this is what is going on, I just want to state that a dental infection/abscess can exist and there still could be a normal or relatively normal mouth exam).
My concern since coming upon your thread has been for the possibility of Squeaky having a dental associated infection and for him to be on an optimal antibiotic for this. This is where I still have some concerns. As far as the bacteria that commonly cause dental infections, anaerobic bacteria must be considered. These are bacteria that grow best in the absence or air (oxygen). That is why I suggested the Amoxicillin plus Clavulanate as this has coverage for aerobic and anaerobic bacteria and is a very suitable antibiotic for dental associated infections. I was at least a bit concerned about the Chloramphenicol that was prescribed and I'm glad it was changed. Azithomycin, though, does not have much anaerobic coverage and is not commonly used for dental infections. It is more commonly used for treating respiratory infections such as certain pneumonias.
I certainly do not want to have your relationship with your Vet put in jeopardy as your Vet does know you and Squeaky and also for the fact that finding another Vet who is experienced with Squirrels or even willing to see Squirrels in their practice may be impossible!
Another antibiotic that possibly your Vet would consider is Clindamycin if he is still concerned about the Amoxicillin plus Clavulanate. Clindamycin also has risks as do any antibiotics which include diarrhea and a form of colitis (inflammation of the colon) but its use in rodents including Squirrels and Rats is well documented! Clindamycin offers very good anaerobic coverage and is also a good antibiotic for dental associated infections. Clindamycin has a very bitter taste and this most likely would need to be "disguised" somehow if Squeaky was to get a prescription for Clindamycin. Use of Probiotics with Amoxicillin plus Clavulanate, Clindamycin and really most all antibiotics would be advisable!
It would still seem a good idea to email Dr. Emerson with a brief narrative of what has been going on and of your concerns today and also attach the x-ray films along with Squeaky's other records to this email. I would then suggest calling Dr. Emerson's office tomorrow morning with the request for her to confirm receiving your email and for her review the records and give her recommendations. Maybe your Vet would also talk with her.
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
Charley Chuckles
05-21-2023, 07:57 AM
🥰
Hi Bean:
What a great photo of Squeaky! He is certainly a cute Little Guy! A cool mist vaporizer can be beneficial. I'll give you my opinion (again, this is my opinion!) and that really hasn't changed although I have an additional recommendation that maybe your Vet would consider. I know your Vet is not keen on listening to unknown individuals on the internet (such as myself!) and prefers acting based upon his knowledge and experience as a Vet along with other professional opinion (he is willing to talk with the Summertree Vets). This definitely make for general good sense for most professionals but I also believe that the evidence seems to strongly a dental infection (probably including a draining abscess as the source of the "white fluid"). Also, I'm glad that your Vet is willing to examine Squeaky's moth for definitive evidence of an abscess but this may not be forthcoming as the abscess may be in the root region of the tooth or even to have spread into bone (these are possibilities only, Bean; I am not suggesting this is what is going on, I just want to state that a dental infection/abscess can exist and there still could be a normal or relatively normal mouth exam).
My concern since coming upon your thread has been for the possibility of Squeaky having a dental associated infection and for him to be on an optimal antibiotic for this. This is where I still have some concerns. As far as the bacteria that commonly cause dental infections, anaerobic bacteria must be considered. These are bacteria that grow best in the absence or air (oxygen). That is why I suggested the Amoxicillin plus Clavulanate as this has coverage for aerobic and anaerobic bacteria and is a very suitable antibiotic for dental associated infections. I was at least a bit concerned about the Chloramphenicol that was prescribed and I'm glad it was changed. Azithomycin, though, does not have much anaerobic coverage and is not commonly used for dental infections. It is more commonly used for treating respiratory infections such as certain pneumonias.
I certainly do not want to have your relationship with your Vet put in jeopardy as your Vet does know you and Squeaky and also for the fact that finding another Vet who is experienced with Squirrels or even willing to see Squirrels in their practice may be impossible!
Another antibiotic that possibly your Vet would consider is Clindamycin if he is still concerned about the Amoxicillin plus Clavulanate. Clindamycin also has risks as do any antibiotics which include diarrhea and a form of colitis (inflammation of the colon) but its use in rodents including Squirrels and Rats is well documented! Clindamycin offers very good anaerobic coverage and is also a good antibiotic for dental associated infections. Clindamycin has a very bitter taste and this most likely would need to be "disguised" somehow if Squeaky was to get a prescription for Clindamycin. Use of Probiotics with Amoxicillin plus Clavulanate, Clindamycin and really most all antibiotics would be advisable!
It would still seem a good idea to email Dr. Emerson with a brief narrative of what has been going on and of your concerns today and also attach the x-ray films along with Squeaky's other records to this email. I would then suggest calling Dr. Emerson's office tomorrow morning with the request for her to confirm receiving your email and for her review the records and give her recommendations. Maybe your Vet would also talk with her.
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
If it is that and has spread to the bone, that probly means he will need his teeth removed or will not make it :( I have emailed the contact us part on both vets but I won't get a response until Tuesday probably. It is like impossible to find an email for Emerson, but I contacted the contact pages to see if they respond, I'd rather Emerson talk to my vet. I wish I could make a go fund me for him or somethin, but hard with an animal that Im not supposed to own, and because he isn't famous like some other squirrels, most people feel he doesn't deserve the same help 😞 breaks my heart. I'm so glad u have been willing to try helping so much, other people have just kind of stopped replying, even private messages, I'm so exhausted with all of the searching I been doing to try find the possible issues and some help. With the constant every month to 2 month appointments for the teeth trimming, I'm not sure I will be able to make my bills with my seasonal job as well as the constant vet bills to try figure the rest out.
SamtheSquirrel2018
05-21-2023, 10:13 AM
If it is that and has spread to the bone, that probly means he will need his teeth removed or will not make it :( I have emailed the contact us part on both vets but I won't get a response until Tuesday probably. It is like impossible to find an email for Emerson, but I contacted the contact pages to see if they respond, I'd rather Emerson talk to my vet. I wish I could make a go fund me for him or somethin, but hard with an animal that Im not supposed to own, and because he isn't famous like some other squirrels, most people feel he doesn't deserve the same help 😞 breaks my heart. I'm so glad u have been willing to try helping so much, other people have just kind of stopped replying, even private messages, I'm so exhausted with all of the searching I been doing to try find the possible issues and some help. With the constant every month to 2 month appointments for the teeth trimming, I'm not sure I will be able to make my bills with my seasonal job as well as the constant vet bills to try figure the rest out.
Hi Bean:
I believe it would be the very best contact option for your Vet to talk with Dr. Emerson; and a better option than Summertree in light of what is going on with Squeaky! Dr E is truly an expert on Squirrel Medicine in general along with probably being the best Squirrel "dentist" anywhere in the world! I don't know what Dr. E's personal email is but probably it is intentionally separated from the email she uses at work. If you still need to email and then to call Dr. E's Clinic; this is the contact page from Revenwood Veterinary Clinic in Port Orange, Florida where Dr. Emerson has her Veterinary Practice. This page has their phone number and the email address for the clinic: https://ravenwoodvet.net/contact/
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
Tashahaven
05-21-2023, 01:23 PM
I would suggest starting a go fund me page even if you think it may not be worth it. It certainly doesn’t hurt, and every penny helps.
Animals get very expensive very quickly! I’m not sure if there is a way to not post your location, or what not, I’ve never created a gofund me page. I’m sure there are at least a handful of people on TSB who would be willing to donate something (I’m one of them).
If it gets to the point you feel you can no longer afford the vet bills to care for him…do you have a Plan B? (I KNOW how hard it is to give him up to another rehabber, cause I just went through it myself) But is that an option you might consider possibly?
TSB members have a lot of contacts and a rather extensive network of qualified people, if that is ever the case.
I hope you are able to get some answers about little beans!! My thoughts and prayers are with you both!
I would suggest starting a go fund me page even if you think it may not be worth it. It certainly doesn’t hurt, and every penny helps.
Animals get very expensive very quickly! I’m not sure if there is a way to not post your location, or what not, I’ve never created a gofund me page. I’m sure there are at least a handful of people on TSB who would be willing to donate something (I’m one of them).
If it gets to the point you feel you can no longer afford the vet bills to care for him…do you have a Plan B? (I KNOW how hard it is to give him up to another rehabber, cause I just went through it myself) But is that an option you might consider possibly?
TSB members have a lot of contacts and a rather extensive network of qualified people, if that is ever the case.
I hope you are able to get some answers about little beans!! My thoughts and prayers are with you both!
Aw thanks, I might try that and see what happens. I never made a go fund me either, but I just want my baby to get better :( and at this point, I would spend every penny I had even if it meant losing my house...or id find some way of making money another way. He's literally like a son to me, he gives me hugs like I've never seen another squirrel do on any video. He's definitely 1 of a kind, n without him, I couldn't see my life going anywhere. He's completely changed my outlook on squirrels and they became my favorite animal, my house is everything squirrels now. I wish I could post the videos of the hugs he gives on here, it's the cutest thing I'd ever seen! I couldn't give my baby up, I don't know any other rehabbers in my country, but I would do anything to keep him healthy with me even if I had to pick up another job. He's super scared of other people, and even when I put him outside, he freezes, he won't move, he's just scared of everything and everyone but me. And he is only himself when he is in his bedroom where his enclosure is.
Hi Bean:
I believe it would be the very best contact option for your Vet to talk with Dr. Emerson; and a better option than Summertree in light of what is going on with Squeaky! Dr E is truly an expert on Squirrel Medicine in general along with probably being the best Squirrel "dentist" anywhere in the world! I don't know what Dr. E's personal email is but probably it is intentionally separated from the email she uses at work. If you still need to email and then to call Dr. E's Clinic; this is the contact page from Revenwood Veterinary Clinic in Port Orange, Florida where Dr. Emerson has her Veterinary Practice. This page has their phone number and the email address for the clinic: https://ravenwoodvet.net/contact/
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
I agree about Emerson, I have heard she is the best by probly 10 people now, and I have heard about all of the surgeries and everything she's done on squirrels. Just so hard to get in contact. I will see if I get an email back from her vet clinic, I did message both, but if dr Emerson would do this, I will 100% decide on her first.
SamtheSquirrel2018
05-22-2023, 05:50 AM
I agree about Emerson, I have heard she is the best by probly 10 people now, and I have heard about all of the surgeries and everything she's done on squirrels. Just so hard to get in contact. I will see if I get an email back from her vet clinic, I did message both, but if dr Emerson would do this, I will 100% decide on her first.
He Bean:
If you haven't done so yet, please email all of Squeaky's x-ray films and medical records along with a concise, to-the-point narrative of what's been going on and your concerns along with what you would like Dr. Emerson to do (such as give an opinion and make recommendations, talk with your Vet, etc) to Dr. Emerson's office ASAP (today): frontdesk@ravenwoodvet.net
Then, call the office at 386-788-1550 and tell them you sent the email, that you were referred to Dr. Emerson by TSB, you are very concerned about your Squirrel and you want to verify that they received your email. Assuming so, then and ask when would be the soonest opportunity for Dr. Emerson to review this and when can you and/or your Vet get back with her to discuss her suggestions. Also, it may be that she will charge for this, I really don't know but it would be best to ask so that at least you will know.
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
Diggie's Friend
05-22-2023, 01:42 PM
Is that a section of avocado with the skin? If so know that the skin is toxic and should not be offered to a squirrel with the skin or the pit;
only the flesh portion alone because scraping the skin with the avocado can mess with the squirrels tummy.
It is possible that this might be contributing to the respiratory infection due to allergy that promotes this kind of condition.
Check for other possible causes for allergy sources in his room as well as the laundry soap you use. .
Place a humidifier in the room close to his cage; it helps ease the nasal passages and the lungs.
https://aboutpetrats.com/nutrition/dangerous-foods/
Tashahaven
05-22-2023, 01:44 PM
DF beat me to it! I was just about to say the same thing.
As far as the video goes, the site doesn’t allow you to upload videos the same way as photos, so you upload it to YouTube, and post the link on here. :) IDE love to see the hugs! 🥰
SamtheSquirrel2018
05-22-2023, 03:25 PM
Is that a section of avocado with the skin? If so know that the skin is toxic and should not be offered to a squirrel with the skin or the pit;
only the flesh portion alone because scraping the skin with the avocado can mess with the squirrels tummy.
It is possible that this might be contributing to the respiratory infection due to allergy that promotes this kind of condition.
Check for other possible causes for allergy sources in his room as well as the laundry soap you use. .
Place a humidifier in the room close to his cage; it helps ease the nasal passages and the lungs.
https://aboutpetrats.com/nutrition/dangerous-foods/
Good catch DF! Thanks!
StS
Is that a section of avocado with the skin? If so know that the skin is toxic and should not be offered to a squirrel with the skin or the pit;
only the flesh portion alone because scraping the skin with the avocado can mess with the squirrels tummy.
It is possible that this might be contributing to the respiratory infection due to allergy that promotes this kind of condition.
Check for other possible causes for allergy sources in his room as well as the laundry soap you use. .
Place a humidifier in the room close to his cage; it helps ease the nasal passages and the lungs.
https://aboutpetrats.com/nutrition/dangerous-foods/
Yes it has the skin. I have seen lots of videos of the famous squirrel thumbelina eating right from a whole avocado a bunch, I used to just give the inside but lately I just cut a piece off and give to him and he only eats the inside, but uses the shell to hold onto. Maybe licking it can cause somethin, I will stop giving the shell to him. He does have a humidifier in his room next to his cage every night, and the laundry soap, I have always used the same stuff since he was a baby and he's never had an issue before. His face looks a little sunken under the eyes too I notice. Yesterday was his last day for medications, until I take him in again and my vet can maybe talk to another vet to find out what this is.
Diggie's Friend
05-22-2023, 11:28 PM
Many years ago, prior to the founding of the board; we had a boy squirrel who was given a large measure of avocado with the skin. The one thing I learned about too large was not to feed avocado with the skin on; having removed the pit I assumed that it would be fine, but it wasn't. He began to gag, then he stopped eating. Sadly the meds that the vet prescribed didn't help him, this even so we stopped feeding him avocado entirely as the vet recommended to let his stomach recover.
This website for rats notes under "Respiratory" conditions, what they recommend to address various degrees of respiratory illness.
Can't hurt to familiarize oneself with this first aide, as its good to be prepared should the need arise. Please continue to update on his condition; rehabbers here are glad to offer what support they can for your boy.
http://www.ratfanclub.org/firstaid.html
Many years ago, prior to the founding of the board; we had a boy squirrel who was given a large measure of avocado with the skin. The one thing I learned about too large was not to feed avocado with the skin on; having removed the pit I assumed that it would be fine, but it wasn't. He began to gag, then he stopped eating. Sadly the meds that the vet prescribed didn't help him, this even so we stopped feeding him avocado entirely as the vet recommended to let his stomach recover.
This website for rats notes under "Respiratory" conditions, what they recommend to address various degrees of respiratory illness.
Can't hurt to familiarize oneself with this first aide, as its good to be prepared should the need arise. Please continue to update on his condition; rehabbers here are glad to offer what support they can for your boy.
http://www.ratfanclub.org/firstaid.html
Thank u for this information! I won't give him the skin anymore, he doesn't eat it but maybe even licking and scraping his teeth along it to get all of the avocado out might be effecting him. I can't remember if this all started before I started giving him the peel, or after. But il definitely never give him one again.
Thank u for this information! I won't give him the skin anymore, he doesn't eat it but maybe even licking and scraping his teeth along it to get all of the avocado out might be effecting him. I can't remember if this all started before I started giving him the peel, or after. But il definitely never give him one again.
I posted the GoFundMe on here, and on instagram and had a bunch of views, but not one donation. I kinda figured as he isn't famous, most people dont care. I also messaged Ravenwood vet and asked about Emerson doing the consultation with my vet multiple times, sent x rays, told my story, and still no reply. Summertree vet contacted me on the may long Monday...kind of frustrated, and at a loss...I can't get answers for my baby, and I just give up on GoFundMe, I'm gonna start selling off my stuff and working weekends. I wish vet trips weren't so expensive
SamtheSquirrel2018
05-25-2023, 06:20 AM
I posted the GoFundMe on here, and on instagram and had a bunch of views, but not one donation. I kinda figured as he isn't famous, most people dont care. I also messaged Ravenwood vet and asked about Emerson doing the consultation with my vet multiple times, sent x rays, told my story, and still no reply. Summertree vet contacted me on the may long Monday...kind of frustrated, and at a loss...I can't get answers for my baby, and I just give up on GoFundMe, I'm gonna start selling off my stuff and working weekends. I wish vet trips weren't so expensive
Hello Bean:
I don't know if it will help and I have not met Dr. Emerson but I will call her office this morning and see if I can find out anything. It may be that it would help for your Vet to call but I will try to find out that as well. I'm sorry for any additional expenses you are incurring! Thanks for your love of Squeaky! How is he doing?
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
Hello Bean:
I don't know if it will help and I have not met Dr. Emerson but I will call her office this morning and see if I can find out anything. It may be that it would help for your Vet to call but I will try to find out that as well. I'm sorry for any additional expenses you are incurring! Thanks for your love of Squeaky! How is he doing?
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
Thanks, that would help. I get charged when I call the states, it sucks. And squeaky is still having his little issues. He does ok some days, and then back to the same stuff. :(
SamtheSquirrel2018
05-25-2023, 07:47 AM
Thanks, that would help. I get charged when I call the states, it sucks. And squeaky is still having his little issues. He does ok some days, and then back to the same stuff. :(
I just called Revenwood. The receptionist did verify that they had received your email with Squeaky's x-rays and records! I was told that Dr. E is off on Thursdays (today) and Fridays and it is on those days that she ordinarily makes her "Squirrel calls." The receptionist also stated that Dr. E "may be" calling you today or tomorrow but she could not be certain of this! My talking with the office may have helped expedite things as I explained some of the concerns regarding Squeaky's medical status. I don't know if there will be a charge but I suspect not as I was also informed that Dr. E usually does NOT charge for this valuable service. Please keep on with the updates!
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
I just called Revenwood. The receptionist did verify that they had received your email with Squeaky's x-rays and records! I was told that Dr. E is off on Thursdays (today) and Fridays and it is on those days that she ordinarily makes her "Squirrel calls." The receptionist also stated that Dr. E "may be" calling you today or tomorrow but she could not be certain of this! My talking with the office may have helped expedite things as I explained some of the concerns regarding Squeaky's medical status. I don't know if there will be a charge but I suspect not as I was also informed that Dr. E usually does NOT charge for this valuable service. Please keep on with the updates!
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
Thank you so much for doing that. Her call will cost me quite a bit of money but I guess I will have to if she will do this for squeaky!
Thank you so much for doing that. Her call will cost me quite a bit of money but I guess I will have to if she will do this for squeaky!
Oh crap, I think when I submit the email and form, I accidentally typed my phone number completely backwards but when I tried to change it, it was too late and sent. I wonder if I could email them and just let them know and give my proper number? I hope she will get the message and see the number change
SamtheSquirrel2018
05-25-2023, 10:52 AM
Oh crap, I think when I submit the email and form, I accidentally typed my phone number completely backwards but when I tried to change it, it was too late and sent. I wonder if I could email them and just let them know and give my proper number? I hope she will get the message and see the number change
Please CALL Ravenwood NOW and tell them. You and Squeaky shouldn't miss this opportunity!
StS
Please CALL Ravenwood NOW and tell them. You and Squeaky shouldn't miss this opportunity!
StS
She isn't there Thursday and Friday..I can't call the states, not unless I get a call. I was just charged $50 extra dollars just for txting someone In the states for help, my bill was outrageous and I'm running out of money which is why I made the gofundme for squeaky. Not getting any help with that at all tho, so if I don't hear from her soon, I might have to go with the other vet cuz they actually respond right away. Been waiting weeks for Dr Emerson or even the clinic to get a hold of me, even private messaged her herself on Facebook and no answer. This is all costing me wayyy too much and I'm stressing right out about it. I just got into a huge argument yesterday with my phone provider about the huge expense on the United States txts.
Charley Chuckles
05-26-2023, 04:33 PM
I'm so sorry this is happening😞
SamtheSquirrel2018
05-26-2023, 05:53 PM
She isn't there Thursday and Friday..I can't call the states, not unless I get a call. I was just charged $50 extra dollars just for txting someone In the states for help, my bill was outrageous and I'm running out of money which is why I made the gofundme for squeaky. Not getting any help with that at all tho, so if I don't hear from her soon, I might have to go with the other vet cuz they actually respond right away. Been waiting weeks for Dr Emerson or even the clinic to get a hold of me, even private messaged her herself on Facebook and no answer. This is all costing me wayyy too much and I'm stressing right out about it. I just got into a huge argument yesterday with my phone provider about the huge expense on the United States txts.
Yes, Dr. E is not there on Thursdays or Fridays but as I mentioned in my post after I had called the office; during those two days "off" are when Dr. E makes her "Squirrel Calls." If you want, send your correct phone number to me by Private Message and I will call Ravenwood and update it for you and also explain the issue of your extraordinary expense that you incur whenever you call the States. It may be fine to try "the other Vet." I assume this is Summertree. Dr. E may have tried to call you yesterday or today but could not reach you because of the wrong number. If you want me to call Ravenwood again in your behalf, I will also ask if Dr. E did try to call you couldn't get through and I will also ask that she try again.
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
I'm so sorry this is happening😞
Thanks, it is very frustrating :(
SamtheSquirrel2018
05-27-2023, 07:00 PM
Yes, Dr. E is not there on Thursdays or Fridays but as I mentioned in my post after I had called the office; during those two days "off" are when Dr. E makes her "Squirrel Calls." If you want, send your correct phone number to me by Private Message and I will call Ravenwood and update it for you and also explain the issue of your extraordinary expense that you incur whenever you call the States. It may be fine to try "the other Vet." I assume this is Summertree. Dr. E may have tried to call you yesterday or today but could not reach you because of the wrong number. If you want me to call Ravenwood again in your behalf, I will also ask if Dr. E did try to call you couldn't get through and I will also ask that she try again.
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
Hi Bean:
I don't know if you saw this. If you would like me call Dr. E's office again and update your phone number and talk with them further I will do so. This will save your cost of calling the States! Please let me know.
Regards,
StS
Yes, Dr. E is not there on Thursdays or Fridays but as I mentioned in my post after I had called the office; during those two days "off" are when Dr. E makes her "Squirrel Calls." If you want, send your correct phone number to me by Private Message and I will call Ravenwood and update it for you and also explain the issue of your extraordinary expense that you incur whenever you call the States. It may be fine to try "the other Vet." I assume this is Summertree. Dr. E may have tried to call you yesterday or today but could not reach you because of the wrong number. If you want me to call Ravenwood again in your behalf, I will also ask if Dr. E did try to call you couldn't get through and I will also ask that she try again.
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
I appreciate that.. I did re email them and update the phone number, but not sure she got it or not. Yes summertree was the other one, but they sent a link for billing so they will bill me too. I can message my number if u like, email normally always works best for me, I wish they would just get ahold of me just to say yes they will do it so I can send my info for my vet.. I may have just lost my relationship in this process which added to my stress...I can't afford my place myself..so I don't know what to do.
SamtheSquirrel2018
05-28-2023, 01:06 PM
I appreciate that.. I did re email them and update the phone number, but not sure she got it or not. Yes summertree was the other one, but they sent a link for billing so they will bill me too. I can message my number if u like, email normally always works best for me, I wish they would just get ahold of me just to say yes they will do it so I can send my info for my vet.. I may have just lost my relationship in this process which added to my stress...I can't afford my place myself..so I don't know what to do.
I got your PM. I will call Dr. E's office tomorrow and if they are closed for the Holiday, I will try again on Tuesday.
StS
SamtheSquirrel2018
05-30-2023, 07:20 AM
I got your PM. I will call Dr. E's office tomorrow and if they are closed for the Holiday, I will try again on Tuesday.
StS
Hello Bean:
I called Dr. E's office this morning (they were closed for the Holiday yesterday) and gave them your correct number. I was told that if someone who is not a regular client sends materials to Dr. E, once she has these materials, her schedule is her own and the office staf does not become aware of any actions Dr. E may have taken regarding these "outside" requests. They had no idea as whether or not Dr. E may have tried to call you with the wrong number that accompanied your original email. I also realized this but the office reinforced this knowledge that Dr. E gets many communications and sometimes it may take several weeks to get back to someone. I don't know what else to do there but hopefully Dr. E will call you.
How is Squeaky doing?
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
Hello Bean:
I called Dr. E's office this morning (they were closed for the Holiday yesterday) and gave them your correct number. I was told that if someone who is not a regular client sends materials to Dr. E, once she has these materials, her schedule is her own and the office staf does not become aware of any actions Dr. E may have taken regarding these "outside" requests. They had no idea as whether or not Dr. E may have tried to call you with the wrong number that accompanied your original email. I also realized this but the office reinforced this knowledge that Dr. E gets many communications and sometimes it may take several weeks to get back to someone. I don't know what else to do there but hopefully Dr. E will call you.
How is Squeaky doing?
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
Oh ok thank u. It might almost be worth it to just set up with summertree in that case, but wel see how squeaky does. lately he has been doin better it seems since he stopped his last antibiotic, no sneezes for about a week. N just a couple yesterday. No milky eyes, n just looks ok compared to before. I'm hoping maybe whatever he had was just a cold or something and he got over it. He is gonna need his teeth trimmed soon, still can't wear them down, poor guy. But he seems a lot better so far
Hello Bean:
I called Dr. E's office this morning (they were closed for the Holiday yesterday) and gave them your correct number. I was told that if someone who is not a regular client sends materials to Dr. E, once she has these materials, her schedule is her own and the office staf does not become aware of any actions Dr. E may have taken regarding these "outside" requests. They had no idea as whether or not Dr. E may have tried to call you with the wrong number that accompanied your original email. I also realized this but the office reinforced this knowledge that Dr. E gets many communications and sometimes it may take several weeks to get back to someone. I don't know what else to do there but hopefully Dr. E will call you.
How is Squeaky doing?
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
Dr emerson finally saw my Facebook message, she is messaging me on there now and asked for his x rays and teeth pictures!
island rehabber
06-01-2023, 08:55 AM
Dr emerson finally saw my Facebook message, she is messaging me on there now and asked for his x rays and teeth pictures!
:w00t:dance:dance
Hello Bean:
I called Dr. E's office this morning (they were closed for the Holiday yesterday) and gave them your correct number. I was told that if someone who is not a regular client sends materials to Dr. E, once she has these materials, her schedule is her own and the office staf does not become aware of any actions Dr. E may have taken regarding these "outside" requests. They had no idea as whether or not Dr. E may have tried to call you with the wrong number that accompanied your original email. I also realized this but the office reinforced this knowledge that Dr. E gets many communications and sometimes it may take several weeks to get back to someone. I don't know what else to do there but hopefully Dr. E will call you.
How is Squeaky doing?
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
Dr Emerson said squeaky does have a upper odontoma....not one other person saw this...? My vet, dr Peters, everyone else I talked to, they all seem the small bottom one but none on top ..she's saying he needs it removed. Now I am terrified once again...my baby is so tiny, she is willing to do what she can to help him learn the surgery but I wish she would just come here...my stress just skyrocketed. I need him to be ok :( he looks so much better and hasn't even been sneezing or anything really anymore. He's doing none of the symptoms. I wish I knew how to know what it looked like from an x ray
SamtheSquirrel2018
06-01-2023, 05:53 PM
Dr Emerson said squeaky does have a upper odontoma....not one other person saw this...? My vet, dr Peters, everyone else I talked to, they all seem the small bottom one but none on top ..she's saying he needs it removed. Now I am terrified once again...my baby is so tiny, she is willing to do what she can to help him learn the surgery but I wish she would just come here...my stress just skyrocketed. I need him to be ok :( he looks so much better and hasn't even been sneezing or anything really anymore. He's doing none of the symptoms. I wish I knew how to know what it looked like from an x ray
Hi Bean:
Please ask Dr. E to simply circle the area of her concern on a copy of the film by which she made this diagnosis. That should help with your understanding of her diagnosis. Dr. E has seen hundreds if not thousands of similar x-ray films and she has opportunity as her years of experience have gone on to correlated what she has notice on the x-ray films with what she has found during surgery. This enables her to make some diagnoses that others would not make because some of the findings that Dr. E notices in some of the films she reviews are probably quite subtle. Another thing you could ask her is whether or not this subtle odontoma is the likely cause of Squeaky's recent symptoms and what actually was going on such as an infection. By the way, Dr. E has been known to travel to do these surgeries but it must be quite expensive. She went to Viet Nam to perform an odontoma surgery on a Squirrel who was the subject of a thread on TSB!
Please keep us updated on little Squeaky and also on how you are doing!
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
Tashahaven
06-01-2023, 07:59 PM
I am grateful you were able to get in touch with Dr E and she was able to make a diagnosis. I have read so many amazing stories about her and her wonderful expertise. Now hopefully we can figure out the timeframe before a surgery is necessary and help you make a plan to get squeaky the help he needs. The good thing, is at least now you KNOW what has been going on, and can go forward from here :)
Thanks Dr E!
I am grateful you were able to get in touch with Dr E and she was able to make a diagnosis. I have read so many amazing stories about her and her wonderful expertise. Now hopefully we can figure out the timeframe before a surgery is necessary and help you make a plan to get squeaky the help he needs. The good thing, is at least now you KNOW what has been going on, and can go forward from here :)
Thanks Dr E!
I just don't understand how my vet and dr Peters said there was none and only a small one on the bottom teeth..I posted here and talked to re habbers too and all of them agreed to no odontoma on the top. She said it looks pretty infected too, I don't know how she seen that from just the x rays. I showed her pics of his actual teeth, maybe that is where she gets that from cuz he got food stuck between them. But he seems like he is doing good now. Almost no sneezing, no milky fluid from the eyes or mouth... I don't know how he could be so infected. He did have the gasping breathing before, but the antibiotics helped and now it's gone. If he had the odontoma, wouldn't it get worse again since he's off antibiotics? I'm so scared to take him in for this. My dr has to figure this out just by dr Everson talking him through and showing him videos, I am going to believe he will do great and send positive vibes towards him. But I'm still so worried. Even about the after care..he is such a tiny little guy I wonder when they will decide to have him in and what else they figure. My vet probly doesn't have the stuff he needs to do it since him and like no one else in Canada has done the surgery basically... He apparently only has 1 top odontoma, so would need to remove 1 tooth, wouldn't the other need removed after he's healed cuz he's only have 1 tooth?
I asked her if she would travel cuz she has done it before but she can't anytime soon because of her kids and any time she has off, she needs to take for her kids and it costs a lot of money to travel her equipment and shel need a room donated to do the surgery in which my vet would have allowed her. I wish I coulda had her do it herself. But I hope she is able to teach him well
Hi Bean:
Please ask Dr. E to simply circle the area of her concern on a copy of the film by which she made this diagnosis. That should help with your understanding of her diagnosis. Dr. E has seen hundreds if not thousands of similar x-ray films and she has opportunity as her years of experience have gone on to correlated what she has notice on the x-ray films with what she has found during surgery. This enables her to make some diagnoses that others would not make because some of the findings that Dr. E notices in some of the films she reviews are probably quite subtle. Another thing you could ask her is whether or not this subtle odontoma is the likely cause of Squeaky's recent symptoms and what actually was going on such as an infection. By the way, Dr. E has been known to travel to do these surgeries but it must be quite expensive. She went to Viet Nam to perform an odontoma surgery on a Squirrel who was the subject of a thread on TSB!
Please keep us updated on little Squeaky and also on how you are doing!
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
I did ask if this could have caused all of the issues he has but she didn't reply on that question. And I did ask if she would travel as well and she said she can't because of her kids. Not anytime soon, and it's very pricey cuz she has to take all her equipment too. She said she travelled to Vietnam to teach and also to do the odontoma surgery while she was there. I really hope she is able to talk my vet into doing an amazing job. I'm so worried
Chirps
06-02-2023, 12:45 AM
Hi! I've been following this thread somewhat. I know you are scared, there is so much to worry about! But let's try to look for some positives. How much experience does your vet have with squirrels? The more experience with anesthetization and surgery the better, obviously, but even Dr. E had to start somewhere. With guidance, your vet can do the job! Maybe you can hold off long enough for your vet to have dealt with other cases (not odontoma necessarily, but just anything that requires anesthesia) to hone his skills. If that sounds like I'm suggesting you let other patients be his practice subjects, well maybe it does, but if they were going to need certain procedures anyway, and your vet will be the one doing them, it would give him more practice until it becomes absolutely necessary to do the surgery on Squeaky.
You mention his symptoms having lessened, so maybe you can take it as a bit of a reprieve to give your vet time to bone up on what he'll need to know to best help Squeaky. Hopefully others who've been through this will weigh in with their experience of how long they were able to hold out before taking the plunge. Also it will give you some time to get the money together to pay for it, although I assume there'd be some kind of plan.
Lots to think about . . .
Hi! I've been following this thread somewhat. I know you are scared, there is so much to worry about! But let's try to look for some positives. How much experience does your vet have with squirrels? The more experience with anesthetization and surgery the better, obviously, but even Dr. E had to start somewhere. With guidance, your vet can do the job! Maybe you can hold off long enough for your vet to have dealt with other cases (not odontoma necessarily, but just anything that requires anesthesia) to hone his skills. If that sounds like I'm suggesting you let other patients be his practice subjects, well maybe it does, but if they were going to need certain procedures anyway, and your vet will be the one doing them, it would give him more practice until it becomes absolutely necessary to do the surgery on Squeaky.
You mention his symptoms having lessened, so maybe you can take it as a bit of a reprieve to give your vet time to bone up on what he'll need to know to best help Squeaky. Hopefully others who've been through this will weigh in with their experience of how long they were able to hold out before taking the plunge. Also it will give you some time to get the money together to pay for it, although I assume there'd be some kind of plan.
Lots to think about . . .
My vet does work with exotics and has done surgeries and anesthesia a lot, he's had to put my squeaky under anesthesia for teeth trimmings and x rays a couple times now, and every visit he will need, hel need put out because he is very skittish, and not calm at all, specially with other people. Just the odontoma he has never done and he has no experience with squirrels.his symptoms did lessen, but dr e said that If I don't get it fixed soon, that I will have a bigger issue later on. But it just seems he gotten better. And what worries me most is that I take him in, and something bad happens when he was doin better. I'd feel like I made him worse. I'm trying so hard to think positive..and I have been more than I regularly do. I am super glad that de Emerson is the one to be helping him and she was willing to do it without a cost, least that I know of. I will do anything I can and pay whatever I have to to pay for him to get better, I'm not sure if they do payment plans but even if not, i will spend every penny of my savings on him...my vet cares about animals and believes all exotics and wildlife deserve equal treatment and care as pets which not many other vets here do, he's the only one who would help me with squeaky, and I really appreciate and respect that about him. I am sure with dr emersons help, he will do great. I'm gonna try to keep positive.
SamtheSquirrel2018
06-02-2023, 01:49 AM
I just don't understand how my vet and dr Peters said there was none and only a small one on the bottom teeth..I posted here and talked to re habbers too and all of them agreed to no odontoma on the top. She said it looks pretty infected too, I don't know how she seen that from just the x rays. I showed her pics of his actual teeth, maybe that is where she gets that from cuz he got food stuck between them. But he seems like he is doing good now. Almost no sneezing, no milky fluid from the eyes or mouth... I don't know how he could be so infected. He did have the gasping breathing before, but the antibiotics helped and now it's gone. If he had the odontoma, wouldn't it get worse again since he's off antibiotics? I'm so scared to take him in for this. My dr has to figure this out just by dr Everson talking him through and showing him videos, I am going to believe he will do great and send positive vibes towards him. But I'm still so worried. Even about the after care..he is such a tiny little guy I wonder when they will decide to have him in and what else they figure. My vet probly doesn't have the stuff he needs to do it since him and like no one else in Canada has done the surgery basically... He apparently only has 1 top odontoma, so would need to remove 1 tooth, wouldn't the other need removed after he's healed cuz he's only have 1 tooth?
I asked her if she would travel cuz she has done it before but she can't anytime soon because of her kids and any time she has off, she needs to take for her kids and it costs a lot of money to travel her equipment and shel need a room donated to do the surgery in which my vet would have allowed her. I wish I coulda had her do it herself. But I hope she is able to teach him well
Hi Bean:
I can easily understand your concerns! Dr. E has a great reputation and considerable experience but I know that you are not fully convinced and you have definitive reasons for feeling this way! Second (or even third opinions) are almost always a sound practice for major surgery that is not absolutely emergent and in a real sense, your had already obtained prior opinions from your Vet and your Rehabber and they were in agreement. Now you have Dr. E's diagnosis and recommendations and you naturally have concerns as the diagnoses and recommendations are not consistent between your consultants! Also, especially in light of recommendations for major but not truly emergent surgery being recommended and you have expressed very valid specific questions that have actually asked but not received an answer; along with your other questions of a general nature that are obviously prompted by the inconsistencies in interpretation of what is actually going on with Squeaky your consultants. I do know that Dr. E is certainly a preeminent Veterinary Dental Professional but your questions still should be resolved and you should feel comfortable with your decisions! Questioning and also seeking resolution of major discrepancies in opinions is a good thing and I feel that you should not be pressured in any way into prematurely consenting to an major operation about which you still have questions, concerns, and even doubts!
I have a couple of suggestions and comments for you but please let me tell you again that I am not a Vet and I am not trying to get between you and any of your consultants including your own Vet or Dr. E! I just share your concerns and feel there is time to get these resolved before committing to a major surgical procedure on little Squeaky! 1) I would specifically voice your questions again to Dr. E about where this infection she commented on is located and how, by studying your photos, she arrived at this conclusion; 2) I would ask the same about the odontoma and I would ask that this be circled on the the x-ray so you can actually see the findings she has utilized to render her diagnosis of an odontoma. 3) you can consider sending the x-ray films to a Veterinary Radiologist for an opinion. 4) a CT Scan is more expensive than plain film x-rays but can be done rather quickly and is likely to show considerable more detail and may help to determine what is going on and help confirm or possibly refute Dr. E's opinion with which you have understandable reservations! 5) if there is an ongoing infection (I've always suspected this was the primary issue and an odontoma was a possible factor in this infection and development of Squeaky's problems), this may be a good time to get an opinion/recommendation from Dr. E as whether an antibiotic might be beneficial right now while your think a bit more about the surgery and if so, what antibiotic would be best. Your Vet may then be willing to write the prescription for whatever Dr. E might recommend (I remember that he was reluctant to give prescribe Clavamox and I do understand his reservations as they were "coming from the internet").
I wish Squeaky and you too, the very best! Please keep posting updates, questions, and comments.
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
Well, I sent squeaky's x rays in for a radiologist diagnosis and this is what they came up with....sounds like squeaky has a lot of issues. But can't do surgery due to his problems...I hope he will be ok
Anyone know if there are ways of helping him with this?
Mel1959
06-15-2023, 08:55 PM
Have you sent the X-rays to Dr. Emerson? I would be interested in her opinion.
Is the radiologist that reviewed it familiar with squirrels?
Have you sent the X-rays to Dr. Emerson? I would be interested in her opinion.
Is the radiologist that reviewed it familiar with squirrels?
I did send to her...this is what she said. This all upsets me so much. I want him to be ok. I'm not sure if the radiologist knows much about squirrels. But I figured that's what they do, they diagnose based on what they can see on x rays...I don't know..this cost me over 300 to have them looked at.
SamtheSquirrel2018
06-16-2023, 09:17 AM
Well, I sent squeaky's x rays in for a radiologist diagnosis and this is what they came up with....sounds like squeaky has a lot of issues. But can't do surgery due to his problems...I hope he will be ok
Anyone know if there are ways of helping him with this?
Hi Bean:
I'm sorry you having to go through all of this! I just want to make some comments and reiterate some comments I made at the time you started Squeaky's thread. Although a Veterinary Radiologist knows a lot about x-ray studies, it is doubtful that they are familiar with the appearance of the chest in all animals. I would assume that with few exceptions such as a radiologist associated with a zoo or rehab facility, most of the films that the average veterinary radiologist sees are from cats and dogs. I'm not sure how much experience this particular radiologist had with interpreting Squirrel chest radiographs or even if this radiologist had any experience with Squirrels radiology! As I mentioned, I am not a radiologist and I am certainly not trying to portray myself ans having more knowledge or experience than the radiologist who read Squeaky's films BUT I simply wanted to point out some concerns I have along with part of my ortiginal post in your thread that I pasted below:
Disclaimer: I am not a Vet nor am I a radiologist (a specialist in interpreting x-ray studies). I will give my opinion however but it must recognized that this is only my opinion! Moving on; while looking at the Discharge Summary from 5/5/2023 that has Chest x-ray (CXR) films pasted to it; there is mention of "the lungs having cleared themselves up" but the "major abnormality in the chest is still there." I am not certain as to what the Vet has referring to as this "major abnormality" but it appears from it says beyond that on the Discharge Summary that they believe it may be the heart. This to me implies that the Vet is referring to the white centrally located, broad density with a blunt L-shape pointed leftward. This is the Heart "shadow" and the upper part of that is what is called the mediastinum which contains some major blood vessels and other "stuff" (to use a medical term!). This Heart "shadow" does appear at first glance to be quite wide in its relation to the lateral width (side to side dimension) of the chest but it is essential to recognize that unlike primates such as monkeys and humans where the broadest dimension of the chest is indeed the lateral dimension; Squirrels and most quadrupeds (those that walking on four legs) have there broadest chest dimension in Ventrodorsal line (from bottom to top) and not from side to side! The heart shadow appears to me to be relatively unremarkable and normal (but again, I am not a radiologist or Vet.
Further, it can make a significant difference in the apparent width of the heart and the mediastinum relative to the distance between the left and right sides of the chest wall if the film was taken during full exhalation, full inhalation or somewhere in between. When the film is taken with the Squirrel in full inspiration as is preferable, the heart and mediastinum will appear smaller than if the film was taken in exhalation. Also, it makes at least a theoretical difference if the beam is traveling Ventrodorsally (bottom to top) or Dorsoventrally (top to bottom). When the film is taken with the Squirrel on his back, there is a slight increased in distance from the heart to the film than there would be if the Squirrel was placed with his belly closest to the film and in that increased distance, the heart and mediastinum can appear enlarged secondary to normal magnification effect of the x-ray beam related to distance.
I know it would be an added expense but the radiologist mentioned a CT of the head and chest could be beneficial in ruling in or ruling out what the radiologist has suggested is going on. An ultrasound is far less expensive than a CT and it should be effective in defining whether or not there is a chest mass. The CT would be ideal for the head. The radiologist sure did note a lot going on from a dental standpoint! A CT would be ideal to verify or clarify this!
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
Hi Bean:
I'm sorry you having to go through all of this! I just want to make some comments and reiterate some comments I made at the time you started Squeaky's thread. Although a Veterinary Radiologist knows a lot about x-ray studies, it is doubtful that they are familiar with the appearance of the chest in all animals. I would assume that with few exceptions such as a radiologist associated with a zoo or rehab facility, most of the films that the average veterinary radiologist sees are from cats and dogs. I'm not sure how much experience this particular radiologist had with interpreting Squirrel chest radiographs or even if this radiologist had any experience with Squirrels radiology! As I mentioned, I am not a radiologist and I am certainly not trying to portray myself ans having more knowledge or experience than the radiologist who read Squeaky's films BUT I simply wanted to point out some concerns I have along with part of my ortiginal post in your thread that I pasted below:
Further, it can make a significant difference in the apparent width of the heart and the mediastinum relative to the distance between the left and right sides of the chest wall if the film was taken during full exhalation, full inhalation or somewhere in between. When the film is taken with the Squirrel in full inspiration as is preferable, the heart and mediastinum will appear smaller than if the film was taken in exhalation. Also, it makes at least a theoretical difference if the beam is traveling Ventrodorsally (bottom to top) or Dorsoventrally (top to bottom). When the film is taken with the Squirrel on his back, there is a slight increased in distance from the heart to the film than there would be if the Squirrel was placed with his belly closest to the film and in that increased distance, the heart and mediastinum can appear enlarged secondary to normal magnification effect of the x-ray beam related to distance.
I know it would be an added expense but the radiologist mentioned a CT of the head and chest could be beneficial in ruling in or ruling out what the radiologist has suggested is going on. An ultrasound is far less expensive than a CT and it should be effective in defining whether or not there is a chest mass. The CT would be ideal for the head. The radiologist sure did note a lot going on from a dental standpoint! A CT would be ideal to verify or clarify this!
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
I am way too worried to get him in for a CT scan now, due to what both my vet and the radiologist has said, he told me to be blunt, he probly won't make it. I'm literally crying, and I'm having a hard time doing my work. I am going to get him ultrasounded which I was told will cost about $700. I am going broke, I don't think I will survive the winter time now, because everything I make, is going towards squeaky. I had 2 donations to his gofundme from Instagram totalling $40...not one donation on the squirrel board, I even made its own thread for it. Tons of visits, not one donation. I'm at a loss. Im not sure how well I will do if anything happens to him. If he wasn't illegal for me to own, I would have made him famous with how damn adorable he is like others do, they get all the attention and help from fans. I have never loved anything so hard in my life. It's a lose lose situation for me, Drs have told me to send his x rays to a radiologist for a definitive conclusion, I get that which cost me over $300 and now almost all people who have seen the conclusion, don't believe it and think I should go with Dr Emerson's thoughts, which she believes odontoma surgery is what he needs, but that will most likely kill him because of the issues he's got and even a light sedation is hard to administer, and others say more tests...his bill today is over $400 😥 just for that radiologist test and his teeth trimming, which people don't agree with..I hope the radiologist is wrong, I really do, so much...which is why I want the ultrasound, and even then, my vet said he has a guy but he may not be comfortable on a small squirrel, even if they find it is fat, to aspirate it, may be tricky and he may not want to do it, and the other guy won't even do a guinea pig so he almost guaranteed won't touch a squirrel. So the only other option is sending me to Saskatoon which i can't do, or the CT scan that isn't healthy on his poor little body in his condition. I'm so worried I just can't take anymore. I'm already selling off my new truck I just bought just to try make sure my baby lives...anything small from anyone would have helped build up..I know I would have in a situation like this for anyone. Any baby deserves it, not just famous ones.. I'm so frustrated..Im thankful for your thoughts and just thinking the radiologist may be wrong, does make me feel a bit better that there may be a little hope for him. I hope like hell, he doesn't have this disease, he's already got a dental disease which they say is a disease like we get and not an upper odontoma which then again, Dr Emerson says he does have that...I can't win. I'm gambling with his life n if I lose him, my life will never be the same. I won't even be able to be in my own house anymore because of how hurt I would be that he's gone. Sorry for my huge rant. I'm just stressed and super worried..thank u for your words, it helps me feel better
SamtheSquirrel2018
06-16-2023, 02:06 PM
I am way too worried to get him in for a CT scan now, due to what both my vet and the radiologist has said, he told me to be blunt, he probly won't make it. I'm literally crying, and I'm having a hard time doing my work. I am going to get him ultrasounded which I was told will cost about $700. I am going broke, I don't think I will survive the winter time now, because everything I make, is going towards squeaky. I had 2 donations to his gofundme from Instagram totalling $40...not one donation on the squirrel board, I even made its own thread for it. Tons of visits, not one donation. I'm at a loss. Im not sure how well I will do if anything happens to him. If he wasn't illegal for me to own, I would have made him famous with how damn adorable he is like others do, they get all the attention and help from fans. I have never loved anything so hard in my life. It's a lose lose situation for me, Drs have told me to send his x rays to a radiologist for a definitive conclusion, I get that which cost me over $300 and now almost all people who have seen the conclusion, don't believe it and think I should go with Dr Emerson's thoughts, which she believes odontoma surgery is what he needs, but that will most likely kill him because of the issues he's got and even a light sedation is hard to administer, and others say more tests...his bill today is over $400 😥 just for that radiologist test and his teeth trimming, which people don't agree with..I hope the radiologist is wrong, I really do, so much...which is why I want the ultrasound, and even then, my vet said he has a guy but he may not be comfortable on a small squirrel, even if they find it is fat, to aspirate it, may be tricky and he may not want to do it, and the other guy won't even do a guinea pig so he almost guaranteed won't touch a squirrel. So the only other option is sending me to Saskatoon which i can't do, or the CT scan that isn't healthy on his poor little body in his condition. I'm so worried I just can't take anymore. I'm already selling off my new truck I just bought just to try make sure my baby lives...anything small from anyone would have helped build up..I know I would have in a situation like this for anyone. Any baby deserves it, not just famous ones.. I'm so frustrated..Im thankful for your thoughts and just thinking the radiologist may be wrong, does make me feel a bit better that there may be a little hope for him. I hope like hell, he doesn't have this disease, he's already got a dental disease which they say is a disease like we get and not an upper odontoma which then again, Dr Emerson says he does have that...I can't win. I'm gambling with his life n if I lose him, my life will never be the same. I won't even be able to be in my own house anymore because of how hurt I would be that he's gone. Sorry for my huge rant. I'm just stressed and super worried..thank u for your words, it helps me feel better
He Bean. I'm sorry for your distress.
Please verify a few things. When you have Squeaky's teeth trimmed, does your Vet sedate him with an inhaled anesthetic agent such as isoflurane? What is it beside the price difference (and $700 dollars is far more than it would cost to ultrasound a human's chest!) between the CT and the Ultrasound makes you prefer the Ultrasound. You have stated that your Vet and the radiologist informed you that Squeaky would probably not survive the CT!?! Why not? It's basically a variation of an x-ray study that could be done very quickly! Are they talking about using Intravenous contrast? I believe that would pose a considerable risk also for a number of reasons; some being that your would need intravenous access, the dose for the contrast material would need to be accurately calculated and I am not sure that there is enough evidence available to accomplish this with some assurance it is a safe dose and other concerns BUT, a lot could be extremely well visualized without using contrast! If it's sedation that your Vet feels would place Squeaky at risk, he is certainly correct in that there are very real risks to use of inhaled anesthesia for sedation but how is he going to facilitate the ultrasound without sedation? Also, that's why I asked about use of an inhaled anesthetic agent to facilitate teeth trimming and apparently, Squeaky tolerates this well!
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
SamtheSquirrel2018
06-16-2023, 03:02 PM
Another possibility might be to obtain a CT without contrast of the head to verify and visualize dental issues and odontoma or whatever. Then an ultrasound for the chest with a focus on the mediastinum. Due mostly to the size of the area and anatomy in question; realizing optimal benefit from an ultrasound of the chest and mediastinum would require both a very experienced ultrasound tech and a very experienced radiologist to interpret the results!
Regards,
StS
He Bean. I'm sorry for your distress.
Please verify a few things. When you have Squeaky's teeth trimmed, does your Vet sedate him with an inhaled anesthetic agent such as isoflurane? What is it beside the price difference (and $700 dollars is far more than it would cost to ultrasound a human's chest!) between the CT and the Ultrasound makes you prefer the Ultrasound. You have stated that your Vet and the radiologist informed you that Squeaky would probably not survive the CT!?! Why not? It's basically a variation of an x-ray study that could be done very quickly! Are they talking about using Intravenous contrast? I believe that would pose a considerable risk also for a number of reasons; some being that your would need intravenous access, the dose for the contrast material would need to be accurately calculated and I am not sure that there is enough evidence available to accomplish this with some assurance it is a safe dose and other concerns BUT, a lot could be extremely well visualized without using contrast! If it's sedation that your Vet feels would place Squeaky at risk, he is certainly correct in that there are very real risks to use of inhaled anesthesia for sedation but how is he going to facilitate the ultrasound without sedation? Also, that's why I asked about use of an inhaled anesthetic agent to facilitate teeth trimming and apparently, Squeaky tolerates this well!
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
I'm not sure but I honestly think it is a needle sedation..he did mention that since the heart findings, he's going to give him a lighter dose. I picked him up and he is still sleepy, it's been like 5 hours. And the bill came to over 500 not 300 like I thought. This is so expensive. He's been giving me deals, but looks like the visit today came to over 300 and the radiologist test was over 200. And yea, the ultrasound is a guy who travels as a contractor and does work for them on exotics....so he's expensive.
SamtheSquirrel2018
06-16-2023, 06:57 PM
I'm not sure but I honestly think it is a needle sedation..he did mention that since the heart findings, he's going to give him a lighter dose. I picked him up and he is still sleepy, it's been like 5 hours. And the bill came to over 500 not 300 like I thought. This is so expensive. He's been giving me deals, but looks like the visit today came to over 300 and the radiologist test was over 200. And yea, the ultrasound is a guy who travels as a contractor and does work for them on exotics....so he's expensive.
Hi Bean:
Please check as to whether or not Squeaky is getting an Inhaled Anesthetic for sedation or injection or perhaps even oral medication. Using an Inhaled Anesthetic (usually Isoflurane) is commonplace in Veterinary Medicine especially for wildlife who are very active and reactive. Using injectable or oral medication to reach an adequate level of sedation would be a hit-or-miss endeavor at the best and is considered by many to have far more inherent risk than using gas. An inhaled anesthetic agent, when used by a trained individual, can often be far safer than trying to get the same level of sedation with oral or injectable agents. The gas is actually titrated (adjusted) to the level of sedation needed and the status of the Squirrel is monitored throughout the procedure. If it seems that there is excessive sedation, the gas is simply turned it off for a short period or the flow is turned down and vice versa; if there is less than adequate sedation, wait a little bit more and/or turn up the anesthetic flow.
Once you give an oral or injectable agent, you can't take it back and it's ordinarily not practical to titrate it! Because every animal responds differently to medication and sometimes differently at different times; along with the fact that ordinarily an injectable or oral medication cannot be titrated and certainly not on a moment to moment basis; there can sometimes be a very thin line between inadequate sedation to conduct a procedure and what is essentially coma and high risk of death. Gas is the way it is usually done but there is always risk! The risks of even "gassing for sedation" are similar to the risks of using the gas to maintain a level of anesthesia to facilitate surgery but one of the major risk factor for using the gas for sedation is the level of training and experience of the operator (the Vet in this case)!
As I mentioned in one of my earlier post, I like the option of a CT to help define what is actually going on with Squeaky's teeth and possibly elsewhere in his head! Once again, maybe there can be a combination of modalities to evaluating whether or not Squeaky has any chest or mediastinal problems with the Ultrasound and if he does, what they are and use CT to help to define what is going on with Squeaky's teeth as there is significant differing of opinions and a CT without contrast would be much more useful in this case than a plain film x-ray!
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
Hi Bean:
Please check as to whether or not Squeaky is getting an Inhaled Anesthetic for sedation or injection or perhaps even oral medication. Using an Inhaled Anesthetic (usually Isoflurane) is commonplace in Veterinary Medicine especially for wildlife who are very active and reactive. Using injectable or oral medication to reach an adequate level of sedation would be a hit-or-miss endeavor at the best and is considered by many to have far more inherent risk than using gas. An inhaled anesthetic agent, when used by a trained individual, can often be far safer than trying to get the same level of sedation with oral or injectable agents. The gas is actually titrated (adjusted) to the level of sedation needed and the status of the Squirrel is monitored throughout the procedure. If it seems that there is excessive sedation, the gas is simply turned it off for a short period or the flow is turned down and vice versa; if there is less than adequate sedation, wait a little bit more and/or turn up the anesthetic flow.
Once you give an oral or injectable agent, you can't take it back and it's ordinarily not practical to titrate it! Because every animal responds differently to medication and sometimes differently at different times; along with the fact that ordinarily an injectable or oral medication cannot be titrated and certainly not on a moment to moment basis; there can sometimes be a very thin line between inadequate sedation to conduct a procedure and what is essentially coma and high risk of death. Gas is the way it is usually done but there is always risk! The risks of even "gassing for sedation" are similar to the risks of using the gas to maintain a level of anesthesia to facilitate surgery but one of the major risk factor for using the gas for sedation is the level of training and experience of the operator (the Vet in this case)!
As I mentioned in one of my earlier post, I like the option of a CT to help define what is actually going on with Squeaky's teeth and possibly elsewhere in his head! Once again, maybe there can be a combination of modalities to evaluating whether or not Squeaky has any chest or mediastinal problems with the Ultrasound and if he does, what they are and use CT to help to define what is going on with Squeaky's teeth as there is significant differing of opinions and a CT without contrast would be much more useful in this case than a plain film x-ray!
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
I will ask..but I still bet it's a needle, he's off weekends. He was wobbly even after we got home and took a long time to get fully out of it. Seems longer every time. So I don't like the sounds of that.
But again, I would need to find help, I need to raise money, because this is expensive. And all I keep doing is spending, and finding out that the findings are still not right or good enough..if I can do a CT scan and ultrasound, it will cost me way over 1000. I can't afford all of this. But seems impossible with a non famous squirrel.
SamtheSquirrel2018
06-17-2023, 09:25 AM
I will ask..but I still bet it's a needle, he's off weekends. He was wobbly even after we got home and took a long time to get fully out of it. Seems longer every time. So I don't like the sounds of that.
But again, I would need to find help, I need to raise money, because this is expensive. And all I keep doing is spending, and finding out that the findings are still not right or good enough..if I can do a CT scan and ultrasound, it will cost me way over 1000. I can't afford all of this. But seems impossible with a non famous squirrel.
Hi Bean:
I have sent a PM to you.
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
Hi Bean:
I have sent a PM to you.
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
Hello, I have tried to reply to your message but it says u have exceeded your messages and u can't accept any more until u delete some!
SamtheSquirrel2018
06-17-2023, 09:03 PM
Hello, I have tried to reply to your message but it says u have exceeded your messages and u can't accept any more until u delete some!
Thanks, I archived some messages and there should be room now!
StS
I got a call today.... $1700 for an ultrasound on squeaky and they will try aspirate it...I have never heard of such a ridiculous price in all my life....he's a travelling one so he will go to the clinic to do it ..but I'm done with this bad news..I give up on my GoFundMe that literally helped me zero, I'm going to lose my house paying for all his vet bills, because I refuse to let him die. They said no CT scan yet until they find out if his heart is not doing well, and a CT scan is more expensive than a ultrasound ....I'm absolutely broken, I can't take it anymore. I've begged, I've prayed, I've spent thousands and it just never stops. Im not sure he's going to survive all of this, and the person who private messaged me telling me that they only live 3-5 years when I researched they can live to 25 years, brought down my mood a ton, I have nightmares, I can't sleep, I literally wake up n I jump out of bed at a ridiculous hour in the morning to run down and make sure he's still alive. It really messed with me!!! I need to hear some good here ...cuz I don't know how much more I can take.
island rehabber
06-21-2023, 04:02 AM
Bean, I am truly sorry that you and squeaky are going thru this. I must tell you, however, that in my 21 years of rehabbing squirrels and running this Board, I know that nobody's squirrel lives to 25!! Utter BS. It may have happened once or twice(I doubt it) but 8--10 is the norm and the longest we've seen here is about 15. One, out of hundreds who made it only to 8 or 9.
Be that as it may, keep searching for better solutions and don't give up hope.....$1700 IS ridiculous, I agree.
SamtheSquirrel2018
06-21-2023, 08:06 AM
I got a call today.... $1700 for an ultrasound on squeaky and they will try aspirate it...I have never heard of such a ridiculous price in all my life....he's a travelling one so he will go to the clinic to do it ..but I'm done with this bad news..I give up on my GoFundMe that literally helped me zero, I'm going to lose my house paying for all his vet bills, because I refuse to let him die. They said no CT scan yet until they find out if his heart is not doing well, and a CT scan is more expensive than a ultrasound ....I'm absolutely broken, I can't take it anymore. I've begged, I've prayed, I've spent thousands and it just never stops. Im not sure he's going to survive all of this, and the person who private messaged me telling me that they only live 3-5 years when I researched they can live to 25 years, brought down my mood a ton, I have nightmares, I can't sleep, I literally wake up n I jump out of bed at a ridiculous hour in the morning to run down and make sure he's still alive. It really messed with me!!! I need to hear some good here ...cuz I don't know how much more I can take.
Hi Bean:
What you heard about the ultrasound is absurd! Much of what you have experiences and heard about Squeaky's imaging studies has been inconsistent! You are obviously very stressed and frustrated as would be anyone under these circumstances; I would guess! Your thread for Squeaky started May 5 which is nearly seven weeks ago! Why don't we start over in a sense and for a while anyway, lets set aside what has gone on and without taking any of that into consideration at the moment; lets reassess Squeaky's status right now! Is Squeaky active; does he have a good appetite; is he drinking, peeing, and pooping normally? Are there any abnormal signs that you have notices such as nasal drainage, swelling anywhere, breathing difficulties as examples but really just anything that seems unusual? What I am wondering Bean, at least for a while; is whether or not it is possibly an option for you (and Squeaky, of course) to just let things be and try to relax and relieve your tension and stresses and you and Squeaky just simply enjoy each other!?! Squirrels also seem to be able to sense emotions in their "significant others" and I really do suspect that a break of sorts would be very advantageous for both of you, if possible! You shouldn't have to sell your home to satisfy these greedy attempts by others to get you to pay these extreme expenses! As some time goes on along with your regular observations and interactions with Squeaky, you and those of us here if you agree, could maybe consider what might be a new plan for Squeaky! I just feel that there needs to be a time to "regroup!" I will be at work most of the day but will check back on TSB as my time permits. Please consider what I have suggested!
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
Stevelisa
06-22-2023, 12:07 AM
This is only my beginner basics about diet of your red squeaky, Totally aside from the above advice of the board experts.
We overwintered 2 red infant girls since over a year ago, hoping to release them soon.
Knock on wood, they’ve been healthy so far.
I’ve tried to follow the diet plan of HHB and TSB, but not so easy with these reds.
Other supplements we give are fresh spruce branches and spruce Cones. These are their major diet items in the wild since several million years. Maybe these items give off essential vitamins to fight off health ailments.
But they do love these things showing by their excitement .
It certainly can’t hurt
Mel1959
06-22-2023, 05:45 AM
StS has offered great advice. Take a minute, take a breath and regroup. I empathize with you and what you’re going through with vets and their outlandish charges. I have spent thousands and thousands on animals over the years. I’m not sure how it came to be that the cost of veterinary medicine seems to have exceeded the costs of human medicine, but in many instances that appears to be the case. $1700 for an ultrasound is absurd! I was quoted a $1400 price for a CT scan for my dog and politely passed because I thought that was absurd. The ultrasound price I paid was less than $500 if memory serves me correctly…..still ridiculous, but not absurd! I think there are many unethical vets that know how much our pets mean to us and pull on our heartstrings with all the testing and expenses that go along with it, in the best interest of the animal. Wanting to help and make a difference is overshadowed by greed. For this reason it’s good I’m not a vet…..because I’d be broke! :eek
Hang in there! Your baby needs you! :hug:Love_Icon
Hi Bean:
What you heard about the ultrasound is absurd! Much of what you have experiences and heard about Squeaky's imaging studies has been inconsistent! You are obviously very stressed and frustrated as would be anyone under these circumstances; I would guess! Your thread for Squeaky started May 5 which is nearly seven weeks ago! Why don't we start over in a sense and for a while anyway, lets set aside what has gone on and without taking any of that into consideration at the moment; lets reassess Squeaky's status right now! Is Squeaky active; does he have a good appetite; is he drinking, peeing, and pooping normally? Are there any abnormal signs that you have notices such as nasal drainage, swelling anywhere, breathing difficulties as examples but really just anything that seems unusual? What I am wondering Bean, at least for a while; is whether or not it is possibly an option for you (and Squeaky, of course) to just let things be and try to relax and relieve your tension and stresses and you and Squeaky just simply enjoy each other!?! Squirrels also seem to be able to sense emotions in their "significant others" and I really do suspect that a break of sorts would be very advantageous for both of you, if possible! You shouldn't have to sell your home to satisfy these greedy attempts by others to get you to pay these extreme expenses! As some time goes on along with your regular observations and interactions with Squeaky, you and those of us here if you agree, could maybe consider what might be a new plan for Squeaky! I just feel that there needs to be a time to "regroup!" I will be at work most of the day but will check back on TSB as my time permits. Please consider what I have suggested!
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel
Squeaky seems ok, he does sneeze a bit, but as long as I keep the fan on, he doesn't sneeze much. He doesn't have milky eyes anymore, he's active, hes peeing and pooping normal It looks like, and he's eating a lot, I have to help him with some things because of his teeth, he's got no swelling that I noticed, and no nasal drainage or anything. He seems better since his last medication, but the sneezes still worries me. He seems to be breathing ok too. I posted a final I give up on Instagram, and suddenly people started sharing my posts, putting them on their reels and stories, also I posted on Reddit and just today alone, I went from $100 to $548. I will probly be able to afford the ultrasound by the time of his appointment next month just from donations! I'm starting to feel a little better. But also stressing out and sad and being brought back down again by people feeling the need to tell me squeak will only live a short life from what I had researched. I don't do well with losing anything, so just hearing this all the time, isnt helping me. I wish pple would stop. I started to feel a little hope and it's upsetting me....I just don't wanna hear it cuz il stew on that forever...miracles happen, and il do my best to keep him goin with me
StS has offered great advice. Take a minute, take a breath and regroup. I empathize with you and what you’re going through with vets and their outlandish charges. I have spent thousands and thousands on animals over the years. I’m not sure how it came to be that the cost of veterinary medicine seems to have exceeded the costs of human medicine, but in many instances that appears to be the case. $1700 for an ultrasound is absurd! I was quoted a $1400 price for a CT scan for my dog and politely passed because I thought that was absurd. The ultrasound price I paid was less than $500 if memory serves me correctly…..still ridiculous, but not absurd! I think there are many unethical vets that know how much our pets mean to us and pull on our heartstrings with all the testing and expenses that go along with it, in the best interest of the animal. Wanting to help and make a difference is overshadowed by greed. For this reason it’s good I’m not a vet…..because I’d be broke! :eek
Hang in there! Your baby needs you! :hug:Love_Icon
I know right?! It is absolutely ridiculous! My vet told me it will be somewhere around $700 he thinks, and then I get the call that they got the quote from the guy for 1700 on a tiny little guy! N they better do it right and careful and he better make it through! I'm tryin to hang in there, il do whatever I have to for my baby! And I am becoming broke! I am supposed to save my money for winter as I now only work seasonal, and so far, I have blown a big part of it. Plus I gotta pay my own taxes and gst and all that yet as I work for myself. It will be hard
This is only my beginner basics about diet of your red squeaky, Totally aside from the above advice of the board experts.
We overwintered 2 red infant girls since over a year ago, hoping to release them soon.
Knock on wood, they’ve been healthy so far.
I’ve tried to follow the diet plan of HHB and TSB, but not so easy with these reds.
Other supplements we give are fresh spruce branches and spruce Cones. These are their major diet items in the wild since several million years. Maybe these items give off essential vitamins to fight off health ailments.
But they do love these things showing by their excitement .
It certainly can’t hurt
Yea my baby got a little of the wild stuff, I have given him cones which he likes, but I tried giving him spruce branches and he didn't touch them. I heard maple trees were good for them as well, I would like to find a branch to give him. Also dandelions I heard are supposed to be good for them, I tried a couple, he chewed on it a little and then didn't touch those either.
Chirps
06-23-2023, 05:27 PM
Yea my baby got a little of the wild stuff, I have given him cones which he likes, but I tried giving him spruce branches and he didn't touch them. I heard maple trees were good for them as well, I would like to find a branch to give him. Also dandelions I heard are supposed to be good for them, I tried a couple, he chewed on it a little and then didn't touch those either.
Re. dandelions, if you pick them for greens for human consumption, they become bitter tasting after flowering. I have no idea of a squirrel's tastes, but maybe if it had flowered it might have been too bitter. But for all I know squirrels PREFER the taste of dandelions that have flowered, and Squeaky just doesn't like dandelions. Anyway, the stage of the plant is a consideration. Maybe give it another go with newer shoots and ones that have flowered and see if he has a preference?
Mel1959
06-23-2023, 08:31 PM
I know right?! It is absolutely ridiculous! My vet told me it will be somewhere around $700 he thinks, and then I get the call that they got the quote from the guy for 1700 on a tiny little guy! N they better do it right and careful and he better make it through! I'm tryin to hang in there, il do whatever I have to for my baby! And I am becoming broke! I am supposed to save my money for winter as I now only work seasonal, and so far, I have blown a big part of it. Plus I gotta pay my own taxes and gst and all that yet as I work for myself. It will be hard
I had to take a squirrel up to Dr. Emerson today. It’s one I released about 6 years ago. Her name is May. She has had problems with her teeth decaying and abscesses forming in her jaw. Dr. E had to lance the abscess and remove some dead bone in her jaw. I told her that I thought she was pregnant. Dr. E sedated her with Sevoflurane anesthesia…cost $86.25, 4 dental X-rays…cost $86.00, ultrasound for pregnancy check…cost $25.75. There were some various other charges, but nothing outrageous. The ultrasound she did was not detailed like might be necessary for other medical conditions. I just wanted to post her charges for comparison.
Dr. E saw at least three babies….so I guess I’ll be a gramma again in a few weeks. :bliss
Stevelisa
06-23-2023, 08:34 PM
The spruce branches have to be freshly cut and spring to now is best as there are fresh buds or new growth which they like to eat. Maple branches recently cut still have sap they love the sweet taste and their hardness is fantastic wear for their teeth.
Re. dandelions, if you pick them for greens for human consumption, they become bitter tasting after flowering. I have no idea of a squirrel's tastes, but maybe if it had flowered it might have been too bitter. But for all I know squirrels PREFER the taste of dandelions that have flowered, and Squeaky just doesn't like dandelions. Anyway, the stage of the plant is a consideration. Maybe give it another go with newer shoots and ones that have flowered and see if he has a preference?
I did try a couple times with the flower and the leaves n everything, he wasn't a fan. But loves his pinecones!
The spruce branches have to be freshly cut and spring to now is best as there are fresh buds or new growth which they like to eat. Maple branches recently cut still have sap they love the sweet taste and their hardness is fantastic wear for their teeth.
I will have to find him a maple, I heard they like the sap, and something that would entire him to chew more so he can potentially trim his own teeth without having them trimmed would be nice!
I had to take a squirrel up to Dr. Emerson today. It’s one I released about 6 years ago. Her name is May. She has had problems with her teeth decaying and abscesses forming in her jaw. Dr. E had to lance the abscess and remove some dead bone in her jaw. I told her that I thought she was pregnant. Dr. E sedated her with Sevoflurane anesthesia…cost $86.25, 4 dental X-rays…cost $86.00, ultrasound for pregnancy check…cost $25.75. There were some various other charges, but nothing outrageous. The ultrasound she did was not detailed like might be necessary for other medical conditions. I just wanted to post her charges for comparison.
Dr. E saw at least three babies….so I guess I’ll be a gramma again in a few weeks. :bliss
Holy real cheap! Yea my bills are outrageous! Crappy thing is I can't insure him since he's illegal to own, and I'm gonna guess if he needed the surgery, id probly be paying thousands. It's so ridiculous. And awwww babies are the cutest!
Diggie's Friend
06-24-2023, 11:29 AM
Pine Pollen is a natural source that all N.A. tree squirrels, including the N.A. Red squirrel are known to consume in season. Pollen. This whole berry source that has perhaps the best form of processing which is minimal, originates from Canada, contains one of the key compounds (organic Sulphur) that greens supply. For this reason it is a good substitute source for greens in the diet of tree squirrels being a source consumed by tree squirrels in the wild. when in season, just as they do tender new greens from their food trees. .It has also been confirmed to be a very good source of B vitamins. It has a wonderful fragrance to it, it is bitter to the taste like salad greens. By adding the pine pollen with this wild source of whole blueberries (also a natural food of N.A. Red Squirrels).
Ponderosa Pine Pollen powder: https://www.amazon.com/Holistic-Bin-Pharmaceutical-Harvested-Supplement/dp/B08L7YL2WQ
https://www.amazon.com/Blueberry-Berry-Pesticide-Concentrate-Woman-Owned/dp/B07S6CLXWG/ref=sr_1_31?keywords=wild+blueberry+powder+organic&qid=1687622051&sr=8-31
(Do not substitute blueberry juice powder for this whole berry source, as the former lacks the seeds and the skin of the berries, which contain higher levels of compounds (polyphenols) known to support health.
To support his diet with these source, I recommend adding (1/64 Tsp.) of this source of pine pollen and 1/32 Tsp. of the wild harvested whole blueberry powder
to (1/2 Tsp.) of plain organic low fat yogurt, to feed twice daily with (AM & PM) meals.
This is a set of mini measuring spoons that will support these specific measures.
https://www.amazon.com/New-Star-Foodservice-42924-Stainless/dp/B00KH9PSNI/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?hvadid=241606801347&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=1014279&hvnetw=g&hvqmt=e&hvrand=7972593819778195358&hvtargid=kwd-12497981704&hydadcr=13958_10210567&keywords=tiny+measuring+spoons&qid=1687622850&sr=8-2-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&psc=1
Pine Pollen is a natural source that all N.A. tree squirrels, including the N.A. Red squirrel are known to consume in season. Pollen. This whole berry source that has perhaps the best form of processing which is minimal, originates from Canada, contains one of the key compounds (organic Sulphur) that greens supply. For this reason it is a good substitute source for greens in the diet of tree squirrels being a source consumed by tree squirrels in the wild. when in season, just as they do tender new greens from their food trees. .It has also been confirmed to be a very good source of B vitamins. It has a wonderful fragrance to it, it is bitter to the taste like salad greens. By adding the pine pollen with this wild source of whole blueberries (also a natural food of N.A. Red Squirrels).
Ponderosa Pine Pollen powder: https://www.amazon.com/Holistic-Bin-Pharmaceutical-Harvested-Supplement/dp/B08L7YL2WQ
https://www.amazon.com/Blueberry-Berry-Pesticide-Concentrate-Woman-Owned/dp/B07S6CLXWG/ref=sr_1_31?keywords=wild+blueberry+powder+organic&qid=1687622051&sr=8-31
(Do not substitute blueberry juice powder for this whole berry source, as the former lacks the seeds and the skin of the berries, which contain higher levels of compounds (polyphenols) known to support health.
To support his diet with these source, I recommend adding (1/64 Tsp.) of this source of pine pollen and 1/32 Tsp. of the wild harvested whole blueberry powder
to (1/2 Tsp.) of plain organic low fat yogurt, to feed twice daily with (AM & PM) meals.
This is a set of mini measuring spoons that will support these specific measures.
https://www.amazon.com/New-Star-Foodservice-42924-Stainless/dp/B00KH9PSNI/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?hvadid=241606801347&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=1014279&hvnetw=g&hvqmt=e&hvrand=7972593819778195358&hvtargid=kwd-12497981704&hydadcr=13958_10210567&keywords=tiny+measuring+spoons&qid=1687622850&sr=8-2-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&psc=1
Oh ok thank u, I will look into that for him!
So I have been told different things from basically every single person and vet I have talked to...and I'm at a loss whether or not to go through with this ultrasound and aspirating a mass if there is one.....he seems 100% ok now besides occasional sneezing, but radiologist says he has all these terrible conditions, and my vet too, some rehabbers say they don't think he's got the issues stated, and dr Emerson says to do the ultrasound and aspirate if there is a mass and that he has upper odontomas, dr Peters said he recommended the radiologist opinion and that there is no sign of upper odontomas, only bottoms that they generally leave alone, and my dr said the same. Another rehabber looked at the x rays and I told her what they are saying is wrong with him, and she told me that a ultrasound is a garenteed death sentence in his situation...what do I do?! If I take him in after he seems happy and doin good, and he never returns home, I will feel like I just took him in to decide it's his time when he wasn't ready, I would be crushed! But if I don't do anything now, it may be too late, what if he does have mass? It can cause issues or get bigger. I don't know. I'm so lost. I'm losing it here..I got emails of the original x rays...instead of the pictures I took of them on the screen, I am adding again. Maybe someone can confirm from them that he does look to have a mass. I didn't realize how blurred my pictures of the x rays were
SamtheSquirrel2018
06-25-2023, 05:10 PM
So I have been told different things from basically every single person and vet I have talked to...and I'm at a loss whether or not to go through with this ultrasound and aspirating a mass if there is one.....he seems 100% ok now besides occasional sneezing, but radiologist says he has all these terrible conditions, and my vet too, some rehabbers say they don't think he's got the issues stated, and dr Emerson says to do the ultrasound and aspirate if there is a mass and that he has upper odontomas, dr Peters said he recommended the radiologist opinion and that there is no sign of upper odontomas, only bottoms that they generally leave alone, and my dr said the same. Another rehabber looked at the x rays and I told her what they are saying is wrong with him, and she told me that a ultrasound is a garenteed death sentence in his situation...what do I do?! If I take him in after he seems happy and doin good, and he never returns home, I will feel like I just took him in to decide it's his time when he wasn't ready, I would be crushed! But if I don't do anything now, it may be too late, what if he does have mass? It can cause issues or get bigger. I don't know. I'm so lost. I'm losing it here..I got emails of the original x rays...instead of the pictures I took of them on the screen, I am adding again. Maybe someone can confirm from them that he does look to have a mass. I didn't realize how blurred my pictures of the x rays were
Hi Bean:
I assume that you want to hear from others as I have already made written posts within Squeaky's thread having to do with my thoughts as things were unfolding and I was going to just observe but if you would, please tolerate a couple more comments. First of all, your uploaded digital radiographs are much better than the photos! I believe that among the reasons that you have not yet had a response to this particular post is that you have already had a radiologist read the films, Dr. E has commented on them, as you have mentioned, you have had "umpteen" others review them as well and you still have conflicting opinions! If you were to get additional opinions, how will this lead to you somehow after all the opinions you will have received; new and old; to make the determination as to what really is going on?!?
Also, I made the suggestion a few posts ago, that you and Squeaky take a "break" and try to ease your tension and frustration and just enjoy each other for a while as long as things seem like they are going fairly well and in this post you even say "he seems 100% ok now besides occasional sneezing!" I already commented on the fact that the cardiac and mediastinal "shadows" on a Squirrel chest x-ray usually appear larger than expected and as I explained why this occurs. I was not and am not stating that Squeaky does not actually have some sort of mass or whatever in his mediastinum and I am not saying that he does not in fact have any heart problems. All I am saying is that you you have been given costs for the ultrasound that are so outrageous along with some suggestions based upon the radiologist stating that there may be some pathology within the mediastinum along with differences of opinion regarding the presence of absence of dental issues and these factors and others have lead to confusion, frustration and potential financial suffering!
Now you mention what you perceive are twin losing propositions; "If I take him in after he seems happy and doin good, and he never returns home, I will feel like I just took him in to decide it's his time when he wasn't ready, I would be crushed! But if I don't do anything now, it may be too late, what if he does have mass?" One thing that you might do, in regard to the potential heart and mediastinal issues would be to try to find less expensive sources for a good ultrasound study or negotiate with your current estimated cost.
I will also tell you my other concern about what also seems to now be the combining of propsed ultrasound with an "aspiration" of any suspicious mass or whatever that is found! IMHO, that entails major risks also, Bean! Who will be doing the proposed "aspiration," the ultrasound tech, a radiologist; who? Are they supposed to be doing the aspiration by ultrasound guidance into a tiny region containing the heart, major arteries and veins, the trachea and main stem bronchi, the esophagus, and quite a bit more! Further, although not in the mediastinum, the lungs are very close and "nicking" a lung or perforating one of the breathing passages can result in a air in the chest or the mediastinum. Perforating a blood vessel or a mass that contains blood vessels can result in bleeding!
And then we have the more practical issues of what you are going to do and more to the point, what are the options available IF you do find an enlarged heart or a mass in in the mediastinum. You will of course then know this but the issue then becomes what can reasonably and practicably be done about whatever is found! There may be no interventions possible! If there are, will you be willing and able to find a cardiothoracic surgeon who can operate on Squeaky! These are all proper and appropriate questions to be thought through before indulging in this ultrasound study. If there were definitive issues identified with the ultrasound, it may help with quantifying potential risks for odontoma surgery that might be potentially beneficial in the future. Ultimately, though, the proposed ultrasound and what sounds like it may potentially answer some questions but the real question then would be "what is next?" One more thing; even if this aspiration that has been mentioned is accomplished without incident, it is not therapy or a cure; it is only more detailed diagnosis. Treatment comes later if it is even practical. Also, the ultrasound may be totally normal and pathology of the heart and mediastinum can be effectively ruled-out. That would be good but what if it is said that while "they" did not find anything definitive or that "they" have more questions and "they" recommend further studies?
Please take some time to reflect on these issues again, Bean. I know you love Squeaky and without a doubt, he love you! Take some time for the both of you and simply enjoy each other for a while again!
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel,
Charley Chuckles
06-27-2023, 01:56 PM
I'm so sorry your going through this it's so hard to decide.
I have an issue with my girl and unfortunately I'm very familiar with odatomas 🙄
My girl doesn't show"aggressive signs" that would trigger someone who had never been around squirrels with odatomas however "I CAN TELL"☹️
I'm not trying to bury my head in the sand but I've been told you don't treat the x-ray you treat the symptoms.
I pray my girl doesn't change drastically and can continues a good life the way she is. She is just over 4 years old.
I have a boy who is almost 13 he's had odatoma surgery way back in 2016 he had one removed it actually grew back which can happen and it was removed the second time and all other 3 incisors have odatomas. That said he's WAY TOO OLD for surgery. He still has the 3 remaining odatomas which fortunately causes him no issues. He does great I swear he acts like a 2 year old 😃
I'm not recommending you do nothing I'm just giving you a perspective that not ALL odatomas are a death sentence and each squirrel not necessarily needs surgery just the same as in humans. Again there are no guarantees either way, it's kind of a judgment call I guess you could say, nothing set in stone 🤷
I hope I didn't confuse you more than you already are and I pray your baby does just fine for many many years to come🙏
Charley Chuckles
06-27-2023, 02:14 PM
I wasn't able to edit my previous post.....
I'm behind in reading all the posts,
I'm only referring to odatomas if it is a different issue please disregard my last post👍
I'm so sorry your going through this it's so hard to decide.
I have an issue with my girl and unfortunately I'm very familiar with odatomas 🙄
My girl doesn't show"aggressive signs" that would trigger someone who had never been around squirrels with odatomas however "I CAN TELL"☹️
I'm not trying to bury my head in the sand but I've been told you don't treat the x-ray you treat the symptoms.
I pray my girl doesn't change drastically and can continues a good life the way she is. She is just over 4 years old.
I have a boy who is almost 13 he's had odatoma surgery way back in 2016 he had one removed it actually grew back which can happen and it was removed the second time and all other 3 incisors have odatomas. That said he's WAY TOO OLD for surgery. He still has the 3 remaining odatomas which fortunately causes him no issues. He does great I swear he acts like a 2 year old 😃
I'm not recommending you do nothing I'm just giving you a perspective that not ALL odatomas are a death sentence and each squirrel not necessarily needs surgery just the same as in humans. Again there are no guarantees either way, it's kind of a judgment call I guess you could say, nothing set in stone 🤷
I hope I didn't confuse you more than you already are and I pray your baby does just fine for many many years to come🙏
Thanks for your input, I really hope squeaky's don't bother him or get worse. The only person who says he has odontomas is Dr Emerson, everyone else says only on the bottom. And so far If he had top ones with all issues he's had for a long while, I think it would have possibly killed him by now so I hope and prey that it's only the bottoms and nothing else goes further. He's sneezing a lot some days and sounds a little nasally when eating some days, other days it isn't bad. I'm sorry bout your girl, I hope so much it doesn't get worse and she does just fine as well as squeaky! I hate these problems, I wish they didn't have them so often, poor babies. I have decided not to do the ultrasound because of the huge risks, squeaky seems he's doing ok besides the sneezes, and I just hope he can heal and just gets better.
Hi Bean:
I assume that you want to hear from others as I have already made written posts within Squeaky's thread having to do with my thoughts as things were unfolding and I was going to just observe but if you would, please tolerate a couple more comments. First of all, your uploaded digital radiographs are much better than the photos! I believe that among the reasons that you have not yet had a response to this particular post is that you have already had a radiologist read the films, Dr. E has commented on them, as you have mentioned, you have had "umpteen" others review them as well and you still have conflicting opinions! If you were to get additional opinions, how will this lead to you somehow after all the opinions you will have received; new and old; to make the determination as to what really is going on?!?
Also, I made the suggestion a few posts ago, that you and Squeaky take a "break" and try to ease your tension and frustration and just enjoy each other for a while as long as things seem like they are going fairly well and in this post you even say "he seems 100% ok now besides occasional sneezing!" I already commented on the fact that the cardiac and mediastinal "shadows" on a Squirrel chest x-ray usually appear larger than expected and as I explained why this occurs. I was not and am not stating that Squeaky does not actually have some sort of mass or whatever in his mediastinum and I am not saying that he does not in fact have any heart problems. All I am saying is that you you have been given costs for the ultrasound that are so outrageous along with some suggestions based upon the radiologist stating that there may be some pathology within the mediastinum along with differences of opinion regarding the presence of absence of dental issues and these factors and others have lead to confusion, frustration and potential financial suffering!
Now you mention what you perceive are twin losing propositions; "If I take him in after he seems happy and doin good, and he never returns home, I will feel like I just took him in to decide it's his time when he wasn't ready, I would be crushed! But if I don't do anything now, it may be too late, what if he does have mass?" One thing that you might do, in regard to the potential heart and mediastinal issues would be to try to find less expensive sources for a good ultrasound study or negotiate with your current estimated cost.
I will also tell you my other concern about what also seems to now be the combining of propsed ultrasound with an "aspiration" of any suspicious mass or whatever that is found! IMHO, that entails major risks also, Bean! Who will be doing the proposed "aspiration," the ultrasound tech, a radiologist; who? Are they supposed to be doing the aspiration by ultrasound guidance into a tiny region containing the heart, major arteries and veins, the trachea and main stem bronchi, the esophagus, and quite a bit more! Further, although not in the mediastinum, the lungs are very close and "nicking" a lung or perforating one of the breathing passages can result in a air in the chest or the mediastinum. Perforating a blood vessel or a mass that contains blood vessels can result in bleeding!
And then we have the more practical issues of what you are going to do and more to the point, what are the options available IF you do find an enlarged heart or a mass in in the mediastinum. You will of course then know this but the issue then becomes what can reasonably and practicably be done about whatever is found! There may be no interventions possible! If there are, will you be willing and able to find a cardiothoracic surgeon who can operate on Squeaky! These are all proper and appropriate questions to be thought through before indulging in this ultrasound study. If there were definitive issues identified with the ultrasound, it may help with quantifying potential risks for odontoma surgery that might be potentially beneficial in the future. Ultimately, though, the proposed ultrasound and what sounds like it may potentially answer some questions but the real question then would be "what is next?" One more thing; even if this aspiration that has been mentioned is accomplished without incident, it is not therapy or a cure; it is only more detailed diagnosis. Treatment comes later if it is even practical. Also, the ultrasound may be totally normal and pathology of the heart and mediastinum can be effectively ruled-out. That would be good but what if it is said that while "they" did not find anything definitive or that "they" have more questions and "they" recommend further studies?
Please take some time to reflect on these issues again, Bean. I know you love Squeaky and without a doubt, he love you! Take some time for the both of you and simply enjoy each other for a while again!
Regards,
SamtheSquirrel,
Yea I know, it's all very stressful and this sucks so much. I have decided against the ultrasound :( due to the huge risks I keep getting told about, I'm glad I have people like u guys who have warned me about all the risks and advised me if it's worth it or not...I won't risk squeakys life over an ultrasound. My baby seems ok besides his sneezes, and the odd time sounding nasally when eating certain things like watermelon, could be the juicyness cuz he squeaks sometimes while eating and kinda sounds like he's just a little nasally...but I have been trying so hard to just be positive and prey that squeaky is ok and the tests were wrong. My vet also said he agrees with my decision and thinks it is best not to do the ultrasound because of the risks. I am going to continue trying to keep him healthy and try to be positive. My baby is everything to me. I also been trying hard to find and think of things that may help him chew more and file his teeth down so I don't need to take him to the vet so much...I hate putting the little guy through all the stress and needles, I ordered some black walnuts which are supposed to be very good for the teeth and hard to open so I hope he will chew on those
CritterMom
07-08-2023, 10:38 AM
Watch the black walnuts. They are insanely hard and squirrels will go nuts and hurt themselves obsessively trying to get into them. They are also very large and forces their mouths into awkward positions.
I like these: https://www.ebay.com/itm/233850209097?_trkparms=amclksrc%3DITM%26aid%3D7770 08%26algo%3DPERSONAL.TOPIC%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D202211 15143056%26meid%3D91cf4ab75013458a9c75f25c4e2603b9 %26pid%3D101612%26rk%3D1%26rkt%3D1%26itm%3D2338502 09097%26pmt%3D0%26noa%3D1%26pg%3D4375194%26algv%3D RecentlyViewedItemsV2&_trksid=p4375194.c101612.m4236&_trkparms=parentrq%3A3621a70e1890a770fbed0f64ffff8 3e0%7Cpageci%3A962c6d3a-1da4-11ee-8899-5a638e9ce6bc%7Ciid%3A1%7Cvlpname%3Avlp_homepage
The Teklad blocks are the best quality of their kind - they are manufactured, unfortunately, for lab mice and rats so the quality of ingredients is pretty high (if you are testing something on a rat, you want it healthy when you begin or any results will be worthless). They are also really, really hard, but they do eventually crumble, so they aren't TOO hard (they can break teeth easily on hard nuts like hickories and black walnuts). I have always supplemented the Henry's with these - there is no need to remove them from the cage lest they go bad, etc, so there are always a few hidden away. Plus, they are getting good nutrition while they do it. The smallest bag from this ebay seller is enough for months and months and months of food...
Stevelisa
07-08-2023, 06:25 PM
Bean,
FYI My red Chippy sneezes whenever she hops along the floor, and occasionally otherwise. She also squeaks or whimpers happy sounds when she eats something she loves.
Our other red coco girl does neither, but Chippy is a much more hyper personality than she is.
I really don’t know what any of this means, just to let you know your squeaky is not alone.
Watch the black walnuts. They are insanely hard and squirrels will go nuts and hurt themselves obsessively trying to get into them. They are also very large and forces their mouths into awkward positions.
I like these: https://www.ebay.com/itm/233850209097?_trkparms=amclksrc%3DITM%26aid%3D7770 08%26algo%3DPERSONAL.TOPIC%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D202211 15143056%26meid%3D91cf4ab75013458a9c75f25c4e2603b9 %26pid%3D101612%26rk%3D1%26rkt%3D1%26itm%3D2338502 09097%26pmt%3D0%26noa%3D1%26pg%3D4375194%26algv%3D RecentlyViewedItemsV2&_trksid=p4375194.c101612.m4236&_trkparms=parentrq%3A3621a70e1890a770fbed0f64ffff8 3e0%7Cpageci%3A962c6d3a-1da4-11ee-8899-5a638e9ce6bc%7Ciid%3A1%7Cvlpname%3Avlp_homepage
The Teklad blocks are the best quality of their kind - they are manufactured, unfortunately, for lab mice and rats so the quality of ingredients is pretty high (if you are testing something on a rat, you want it healthy when you begin or any results will be worthless). They are also really, really hard, but they do eventually crumble, so they aren't TOO hard (they can break teeth easily on hard nuts like hickories and black walnuts). I have always supplemented the Henry's with these - there is no need to remove them from the cage lest they go bad, etc, so there are always a few hidden away. Plus, they are getting good nutrition while they do it. The smallest bag from this ebay seller is enough for months and months and months of food...
I always hear one thing and then soon as I buy it, I get warnings from others lol. Yea I had that worry too, squeaky doesn't go nuts over the ones in the shells really. He's just little and the walnuts are way bigger than his head, he can't even carry one more than a few steps away. He did chew carefully on it for a bit and then buried it of course lol, and then he walked away and came back and buried it probly 20 times and then picked it up and chewed it and then buried again and he went at it for a good like 10 mins or so lol. Even with regular walnuts or even almonds, he chews it a little, rolls them around and then puts them away, like he realizes he's unable to open them or somethin. I tried cracking one open myself and holy crap I couldn't even do it with a nut cracker, il have to use a hammer. I wanna give him a little bit of break it in half so at least he can see the nut and chew some out and try chew the shell open a little.il check out the other blocks u mentioned too!
Bean,
FYI My red Chippy sneezes whenever she hops along the floor, and occasionally otherwise. She also squeaks or whimpers happy sounds when she eats something she loves.
Our other red coco girl does neither, but Chippy is a much more hyper personality than she is.
I really don’t know what any of this means, just to let you know your squeaky is not alone.
Oh ok, I'm glad squeaky isn't alone with this. He has little sneeze attacks where he will just start cleaning his face and then starts sneezing a lot and then when he's done, he stops sneezing. And the odd time he will sneeze when sniffing around for food or somethin too. I hope it's just nothin bad, cuz otherwise his health looks so much better than he was so that makes me happy.
Watch the black walnuts. They are insanely hard and squirrels will go nuts and hurt themselves obsessively trying to get into them. They are also very large and forces their mouths into awkward positions.
I like these: https://www.ebay.com/itm/233850209097?_trkparms=amclksrc%3DITM%26aid%3D7770 08%26algo%3DPERSONAL.TOPIC%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D202211 15143056%26meid%3D91cf4ab75013458a9c75f25c4e2603b9 %26pid%3D101612%26rk%3D1%26rkt%3D1%26itm%3D2338502 09097%26pmt%3D0%26noa%3D1%26pg%3D4375194%26algv%3D RecentlyViewedItemsV2&_trksid=p4375194.c101612.m4236&_trkparms=parentrq%3A3621a70e1890a770fbed0f64ffff8 3e0%7Cpageci%3A962c6d3a-1da4-11ee-8899-5a638e9ce6bc%7Ciid%3A1%7Cvlpname%3Avlp_homepage
The Teklad blocks are the best quality of their kind - they are manufactured, unfortunately, for lab mice and rats so the quality of ingredients is pretty high (if you are testing something on a rat, you want it healthy when you begin or any results will be worthless). They are also really, really hard, but they do eventually crumble, so they aren't TOO hard (they can break teeth easily on hard nuts like hickories and black walnuts). I have always supplemented the Henry's with these - there is no need to remove them from the cage lest they go bad, etc, so there are always a few hidden away. Plus, they are getting good nutrition while they do it. The smallest bag from this ebay seller is enough for months and months and months of food...
Ohhhh when I looked at the link u gave me, turns out I have those exact things but its oxbow brand! I would only give him 1 every few days to chew on a couple years ago, but he didn't like them really
Charley Chuckles
07-08-2023, 10:10 PM
Thanks for your input, I really hope squeaky's don't bother him or get worse. The only person who says he has odontomas is Dr Emerson, everyone else says only on the bottom. And so far If he had top ones with all issues he's had for a long while, I think it would have possibly killed him by now so I hope and prey that it's only the bottoms and nothing else goes further. He's sneezing a lot some days and sounds a little nasally when eating some days, other days it isn't bad. I'm sorry bout your girl, I hope so much it doesn't get worse and she does just fine as well as squeaky! I hate these problems, I wish they didn't have them so often, poor babies. I have decided not to do the ultrasound because of the huge risks, squeaky seems he's doing ok besides the sneezes, and I just hope he can heal and just gets better.
I do believe my girl has them from excessive chewing which nothing I could do would stop her. Dr Emerson told me she believes repeated chewing on hard objects can cause this, such as chewing cage bars and I also believe chewing hard nut shells. Squirrels need to chew to keep their teeth trimmed however a squirrel in the wild would not constantly chew on a hard nut to just get the "prize" inside.
CritterMom
07-09-2023, 06:00 AM
Ohhhh when I looked at the link u gave me, turns out I have those exact things but its oxbow brand! I would only give him 1 every few days to chew on a couple years ago, but he didn't like them really
Yeah, they only look the same. The Teklad are much harder.
I do believe my girl has them from excessive chewing which nothing I could do would stop her. Dr Emerson told me she believes repeated chewing on hard objects can cause this, such as chewing cage bars and I also believe chewing hard nut shells. Squirrels need to chew to keep their teeth trimmed however a squirrel in the wild would not constantly chew on a hard nut to just get the "prize" inside.
She has odontomas from excessive chewing? Or sneezes?
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