Originally Posted by
Fenchurch
Hi,
I always learn a ton from you guys, and I was hoping you could help me learn more (I'd like to eventually get my rehabbers license and join the nuttiness, and I always like to learn the why's behind great advice!)
Things I am curious about:
1. I have seen that you aren't supposed to continue pedialyte beyond 24 hours. Why? Is it just because it doesn't provide enough nutrition/calories on its own?
A - You CAN offer Pedialyte and other hydration fluids beyond 24 hours, and frankly, you SHOULD. You should NOT offer ONLY Pedialyte/hydration fluids solely for more than 24 hours.
2. Pedialyte powder is now available in little single-serve packets in stores (or maybe it has been for a while and I just haven't noticed!) Does anyone have experience using it? I was thinking it would be handy to keep a packet or two in my bag, since I always seem to find babies when I am out and about (and living in nyc, I don't have a car--otherwise I would stash a bottle!)
A - yes this is a good idea. I always have some sort of hydration and emergency supplies on hand
3. Why shouldn't you mix pedialyte and formula? I have seen it recommended for humans, so was curious why it was a major no for squirrels
A - You should NOT mix the formula with the Pedialyte (as in, instead of water). I believe there was a study done at one point and it indicated that the proteins in the formula got screwed up. Someone else is going to have to provide the specifics. HOWEVER, I've been advised by at least 6 senior rehabbers and even vets that there is absolutely no problem with mixing the formula as instructed, then in a different container mixing the hydration fluids and then pulling some of both up in the syringe to feed. They don't have separate compartments in their stomach for different kinds of fluids, so as long as they are both mixed according to their specific instructions many people do use this practice. It is a better practice to offer extra hydration in between the formula feedings...this way they are getting a full calorie load and the extra hydration...best of both worlds.
4. Is all rodent block the same (or decent)? I've never been able to find any of the recommended ones in my local pet stores, and HHPs blocks don't keep for long (which is part of why they are so fresh and delicious, I'm sure!), so I want to make sure there aren't any kinds that I absolutely should be avoiding (or ingredients I should watch out for)
A - No they are not all the same. HHB's keep just fine in the freezer. They are available ONLINE only. Kaytee, Mazuri, Zupreme and Harlan Teklan (I think they are using a different name now) are also widely used and I believe it comes down to ease of availability and personal preference.
5. What is the current state of debate on esbilac vs fox valley? I see FV in the sticky, but it seems like lots of people are using esbilac. Is that just because in an emergency esbilac is quicker to get?
A - WELL! Esbilac used to be great, then it got bad and we all went to FV 32/40, then the 32/40 got bad and the Esbilac got good so we all went back to the Esbilac. This year though we've been seeing some problems with the Esbilac again...babies are stopping up, bloating, or simply won't eat it and in those instances we've gone to Goats Milk or some combination of GM and Esbilac. As of this moment in time, Esbilac is still the go to until they are 4 weeks of age and then FV 20/50.
Finally, is there a book on squirrel/wildlife rehabbing you guys could recommend for the exam and just general knowledge? Or just keep lurking and learning? If there isn't, you should write one!
Wild Mammal Babies - The First 24 Hours and Beyond, 3rd Edition
Thanks as always!