SHORTCUT METHOD OF FLUID CALCULATION

[LaurelLynn]

Either and/or Both

Thank you! I always knew warm hydrate and then feed but I was using the process for the first day and then just playing it by observation after that, so this is helpful

I thought (and might be totally wrong) that the main reason to give oral fluids without formula was that food triggers the digestive process which interferes with absorption of fluids and pulls the water to digest? Which is a big issue in dehydration. I didn't know if this applied to SQ absorbtion since it doesn't rely on absorbtion in the digestive tract.

And I usually use lactated ringers for hydrating... is this acceptable?

[island rehabber]

Thank you! I always knew warm hydrate and then feed but I was using the process for the first day and then just playing it by observation after that, so this is helpful

I thought (and might be totally wrong) that the main reason to give oral fluids without formula was that food triggers the digestive process which interferes with absorption of fluids and pulls the water to digest? Which is a big issue in dehydration. I didn't know if this applied to SQ absorbtion since it doesn't rely on absorbtion in the digestive tract.

And I usually use lactated ringers for hydrating... is this acceptable?

LRS is for hydrating via sub-Q and can be used orally, but squirrels generally prefer a sweeter fluid like honey water, sugar water, or Pedialyte. I have only had one baby in years who actually preferred LRS....I discovered this after trying every single thing I had in the house with no success.

[LaurelLynn]

LRS is for hydrating via sub-Q and can be used orally, but squirrels generally prefer a sweeter fluid like honey water, sugar water, or Pedialyte. I have only had one baby in years who actually preferred LRS....I discovered this after trying every single thing I had in the house with no success.

Everyone so for has hated it lol

[island rehabber]

Everyone so for has hated it lol

Yep that's what I discovered. What everyone seems to love is a mixture of 2 cups very warm water with a quarter TEAspoon of honey.

[RobinTN]

Does the replacement fluid change from day one to days two & three? As in Pedialyte or the homemade version for the first 24 hours, then a sugar/water solution for the next 48 hours?

My understanding is no, it does not change.

OK I'm confused (big surprise there)

So... it would be acceptable to give pedialyte or a solution that includes salt for up to 72 hours as long as the total quantity is based on sqrls body weight?

[Milo's Mom]

OK I'm confused (big surprise there)

So... it would be acceptable to give pedialyte or a solution that includes salt for up to 72 hours as long as the total quantity is based on sqrls body weight?

My understanding is yes, it is absolutely okay. The salt is functioning as the electrolyte in the homemade hydration fluid. Keep in mind the R&M hydration is done while they are also being fed formula (after the first 12 hours or so - depending on the level of dehydration and emaciation).

I sent a PM offering assistance in getting the presentation in a format conducive to posting on our board...this way we can all see it. I think it is in the works. I've been out of it since late yesterday afternoon...couple more tears left to cry then I'll pick up the pieces and follow up.

[TubeDriver]

I wonder if 72 hours of electrolyte hydration would be needed/desirable if the dehydration is just primary dehydration from reduced water intake as opposed to secondary hydration (loss of water and salts) due to injuries, Diarrhea etc.?

[RobinTN]

My understanding is yes, it is absolutely okay. The salt is functioning as the electrolyte in the homemade hydration fluid. Keep in mind the R&M hydration is done while they are also being fed formula (after the first 12 hours or so - depending on the level of dehydration and emaciation).

I sent a PM offering assistance in getting the presentation in a format conducive to posting on our board...this way we can all see it. I think it is in the works. I've been out of it since late yesterday afternoon...couple more tears left to cry then I'll pick up the pieces and follow up.

Thank you for clarifying, & hang in there.

Tears of sadness will eventually turn to tears of happy memories