Female Fox squirrel with Flies on Tail

[Randy14]

325475

[Randy14]

My friend Jenni, has a squirrel named Delores who visits her regularly. Based on observation and demeanor the squirrel appears to be nursing. Jenni just told me that Delores has flies all around end of her tail which appears to be infected. We're worried that the flies are attempting to place larvae on tail area, or is this early stages of bot-fly? I tried to send a video, but couldn't because of the size of the file. But will try to send a photo. We have no access to nest, nor exact whereabouts of the nest to check on the babies if they are affected. I gave Jenni a cannister of cedar-cide spray to use on Delores to repel the flies next time Jenni sees her. Regular insect repellant has deet which could be toxic if it is licked. I believe we have means to take Delores to a local vet, but may not be a good idea if she is nursing babies. We definitely need some help and advice.........Many Thanks

[CritterMom]

Here is a suggestion that may take care of both the flies and the wound: Go to the drug store and buy a bottle of Betadyne 10% povidone iodine (or any store equivalent that is a few $ cheaper). It is a red liquid. You would also need a little spray bottle. Dilute the betadyne at the rate of a teaspoon to 1/4 cup water and place in the sprayer. If you can actually get close enough, spray the wound with the betadyne - it doesn't burn or sting and if you warm it up so she isn't being hit by cold liquid she may not even know you did anything. Then use your insecticide spray ABOVE the area that is wounded - don't spray the wound, just the surrounding area. The smell will still repel the flies and the betadyne is a powerful antiseptic that will kill bacteria that is causing infection. Repeat as often as you can.