BABY SQUIRREL

[volchek]

He was actually outside for couple hours while I went out. Inside he has to be in the bathroom so the dog can't get him. THe only room I can lock the door. He is there during the night. I gave him the formula once ( I tried many times ) and water couple times a day. He ate 3-4 almonds. I don't have a cage, just the box.

[Buddy'sMom]

Since there are no rehabbers here at the moment ........ I looked back over what they told you today and based on that I would continue to offer Pedialyte in between feedings of formula at least for tonite. However, it could eat grapes or watermelon instead of Pedialyte and might enjoy that more.

He also might like to munch on some Cheerios if you have any.

[4skwerlz]

Since there are no rehabbers here at the moment ........ I looked back over what they told you today and based on that I would continue to offer Pedialyte in between feedings of formula at least for tonite. However, it could eat grapes or watermelon instead of Pedialyte and might enjoy that more.

He also might like to munch on some Cheerios if you have any.

Yes, the Cheerios would be healthier than the nuts!

[Buddy'sMom]

He was actually outside for couple hours while I went out. Inside he has to be in the bathroom so the dog can't get him. THe only room I can lock the door. He is there during the night. I gave him the formula once ( I tried many times ) and water couple times a day. He ate 3-4 almonds. I don't have a cage, just the box.

Does the box have a lid? With holes? Cause he shouldn't be able to get out and wander. Even in the bathroom because he could end up away from his warm nest and not know how to get back.. Or chew stuff . CLOSE THE TOILET LID!!

If the box doesn't have a lid, do you have a large piece of cardboard you can cut 1 inch slits in for air? Or else a screen? Lay either on top of his box and put a book or two on so he can't push it off.

He probably would be best off in the bathroom during the day, too, instead of outside. But outside is ok if the temp is moderate and he is protected from any dogs, cats or kids. And can't get out.

Also -- back to the formula and the Pedialyte -- sometimes they are picky and it needs to be very warm, so possibly if you try a little warmer he'll like it better. But it may just be that he needs time to get used to it (doesn't tast like mom!)

You're doing great!

[volchek]

Thank you for the advice. I use the screen now to cover the box. It's a big box and smaller one inside it for the nest. Plus I have a log and he likes to climb it. I feel outside is safer, since I have kids who make a lot of noise and a dog. Anyway he is home now. Hope he will feel better.

[4skwerlz]

Any luck finding a rehabber? Has anyone PM'd you with more help?

[volchek]

No, no PMs. no luck withthe rehubber yet. It's sure hard! I can't get my kids leave him alone. That's the hardest part. What kind of meds should I buy?

[thundersquirrel]

meds? did i miss something? who suggested medicine?

i really understand how your kids must be feeling. it's very hard to resist a little squirrel. have you tried sitting them down and talking to them about it? they'll need to stop handling the little guy, he needs to learn to fear humans. that's what i would explain to them; they can't tell the difference between hunters and animal lovers, so if he learns to like your kids he'll learn to like people who could hurt him, too.

also, since he's a juvenile (as opposed to a baby) he might try claw them if they pester him too much. i don't want to see your kids get hurt.

if we can get you a rehabber, would you give this guy to them? it sounds like you're balancing a lot on your shoulders right now, it must be pretty tough. heck, my mother and i get overwhelmed with our baby squirrels, and there's even TWO of us to help!

no judgment, just wondering.

if you can get him a cage, that would be wonderful. many humane societies have rodent cages (meant for rabbits, rats, etc.) donated to them, and you could get one cheap or for free. if he has a secure cage to live in, he can be in the cage AND be outside at the same time.

just DON'T leave him out at night if you do get him a cage. it would have to be double wired to do so, so unless you want to make one, he'll need to stay inside at night (or in your garage, if you have one).

[4skwerlz]

Hi Volchek,

Sorry the responses have been a little slow tonite. Alot of the TSB rehabbers are very busy with babies right now. Looks like you're taking care of him for now, until you can find a local rehabber. Can you move to chat?

[thundersquirrel]

don't worry, gamma. i think you do twice the helpful posting i do anyway, so i can't blame you.

[TexanSquirrel]

What a cutie!

[volchek]

For all the advice and quick response. I got the local resque person and it took the baby.I hope he will be fine. I feel very sad and happy at the same time. It was a lot to handle indeed. kids, dog, household AND THE BABY. Almost like having a baby for the first time. I had a lot to learn about these creatures. Thank you for all the help. I'm glad I found this place. My neighbor told me that they found a dead sqirrel. Probably the mom. We might find more of the babies I attached some of his pictures. I will miss you , little guy ...

[thundersquirrel]

oh thank you SO MUCH for doing that!

the sacrifice your heart has made will ensure that your baby survives. he really does seem to be the type to capture a person's love. you did a wonderful thing.

did the rescue person say anything about a release site?

stick with us! if you find another little cutie, we can help you with that one too. we also love to get more members!

[Critter_Queen]

If you can, go back to where you found this little one and search and listen for more. They cry out like a long bird chirp, high pitched, and can be mistaken for birds, but it's just longer and you notice it's just "different" sounding. Check the tree trunks and low branches, under the bushes and on the ground all around. I've found other squirrels this way when I've gone to pick up orphans from finders.

THANK YOU for taking such great care of him!!!

[squirrelsrule&bunniestoo]

I agree, keep looking for more, they may be wandering around looking for food. I am sooooooooooooooooo glad you got the little guy to a rehabber. Now he will be able to grow up with other squirrels and learn what it means to be a squirrel. You did the right thing for the little guy. Good work!