Because of excessive Spam, I have had to close the Guest Book to spontaneous signings. If you would like to sign it (and I would love for you to!), please email your message to me, Clarissa, making a note that it is intended for the Guest Book, and I will enter it for you. Thank you one and all for sharing your lovely, very touching, and sometimes poignant stories, and, especially, for the wonderful work you do!
If you have questions about squirrels, you may email me at Clarissa --I answer all emails quickly, so if you don't hear back from me, something may be wrong on your receiving end.
Click here to go to my main page, Squirrel Nutrition and Care by Clarissa Summers: Main Squirrel Page
I used your formula and not only did she do great but she went off and had babies of her own and brought them home for us to take care of along with her help.
The second one I found today in the middle of a busy street and no one would stop. This one seems a bit older, she has her/his hair and a small fluffy tail. She was so hungry she was trying to eat my shirt. I got her home and fed her your milk formula again and she is now curled up in a little ball under all her blankets in a small animal carrier on a table in my kitchen.
They are one of the most amazing animals. Some people say “They are just rats," but they are one of God's living things and I will not let this poor thing die. -- It is nice to know there are still people who care about wild animals and not consider them a nuisance.
So thank you for your simple recipe to help me raise another baby. -- Thank You -- Paul R Ventura -- April 27, 2008
We did not know what to do so we went to the internet and on the first website we found, we saw some pictures that indicated the age of some squirrels. By the looks of these pictures, the baby appeared to be about 5 weeks old. This website, told us to give him Pediolyte and/or puppy formula "First Born" was the first brand recommended. We bought the Pediolyte and fed it to the baby. He started to look a little bit better. We padded the cage with towels and old t-shirts and a heat pad to keep him warm.
I got up at 6:00 a.m the next morning, Easter Sunday, and found him almost dead. I started to rub him, and prayed and fed him some more warm Pediolyte. After a while of doing this, he started to react again. Later on we went to buy the puppy formula, and as instructed on the other website, we diluted it with some water. The baby was not taking it, so we started to combine both Pediolite & formula. He was doing better, and started to go pi-pi & poo-poo. He had some diarrhea, though.
The next day I went to the internet to look for better instructions/guidance on how to take care of this baby. I found a website that called my attention: "Feeding care nutrition scalded cow's milk". That made a lot of sense. I printed the whole book and was fascinated by the way Clarissa explained everything. The Scalded Cow's milk made a lot of sense. As soon as I started to feed this milk to the baby (we named him "Sparky" because he sparked up twice in his tiny little life span), he went to town. He did not want to separate from the syringe. He just loved it!! -- more than the other stuff I was giving him.
We started to feed him every 3 to 4 hours. In no time, he started to look chubby. Couple of days later, his tail got bigger & fuller, he had more energy. He started to climb up all over us as if we were trees. He was most comfortable with my younger son, who was home with him the most. He was so funny and full of love and energy. As soon as he was fed and played a bit, and we put the heated pad in his bed, he went to sleep like a little angel. He was the perfect baby.
This past Sunday, we woke up early to feed the baby before we went to church. Sparky did not act normal. There seemed to be some kind of very faded blood spots on his bedding. I heated up his milk and tried to feed him, but he did not take it. I left him with my son. When my husband & I came back from church, my son showed me his behind. He had some kind of a bloody piece of meat hanging from his rectum. He was still strong, though, as he climbed up my shoulder. I hugged him and put him back in his bed (the box he slept in).
My husband called our dog's vet, but of course, she wasn't there. The answering service suggested to take him to an animal emergency center, or to call a rescue center. She gave him a number of a "Squirrel Specialist" that lives in Malibu, CA. My husband called this lady and after giving my husband a hard time for not taking the baby to her sooner, she told him to take him to a rescue center in West L.A., where she goes to. She assured my husband that she knew exactly what was happening to the baby. She said that she was going to push the prolapsed uterus in the hole and stitch him back up with no problem. We believed her and rushed Sparky to this rescue center. "What a big mistake that was". We were told there that they were going to put him down, and that there was no hope for him. He told them not to put him down, that Marcia, the "Squirrel Specialist" was coming to get him and that she knew how to take care of him. They knew her, so they told my husband that they would wait for her.
I called Marcia a couple of hours later and she told me that she was on her way to pick him up. She assured me that she had just talked to the people at the West L.A. Animal Rescue Center and that he was still okay. She also told me that she was going to take him the next morning to the Animal Specialist that deals with her sick animals, and that he was going to be okay. She asked me to call her back in two days.
Tuesday morning came, & I called her. She was very nasty and mean on the phone. She started to tell me that my baby was "skin & bones" and very malnourished, and that she (she told me that Sparky was a girl) did not make it. .She went on & on telling me how much money & time she spend to became a licensed "Squirrel Rescuer", and that we did not take proper care of this baby. After she said that, I knew that she was lying all the way because the baby was chubby, and the only time she did not eat was Sunday morning because of what she was going through. I told her that I disagreed with her, but she did not let me talk as she kept on rumbling on and on. I just thanked her for whatever she did for my baby and wished her luck.
I was so upset, I did not care about her rumbling and frustrated/nasty attitude, as I knew that she was lying to me just to get me off her back. . I wanted to call you yesterday, but I was too upset all day long after I talked to the lady, Marcia in Malibu, that took the baby from the Rescue Center. I also knew in my heart that Sparky was well fed, and that the love that we gave her and she gave us was genuine. I feel in my heart that Sparky is still alive.
I never knew that these little creatures could be so loving. We had Sparky for almost 1 month, and we miss her very much...... My family and I know better now. And if we ever get the opportunity to go through this experience again, we will do it in a heartbeat. People like Marcia will not discourage us from doing what is best.
I told her that I disagreed with her, that we took good care of her, but she just did not want to hear anything I said. She went on and on telling me how much money and time she spent going through classes in order to obtain her license as a rescuer, and how she had not slept for 30 days because she's nursing and taking care of her hundreds of squirrels she has. She told me that we were supposed to have fed the baby day and night. I could not even tell her that we fed her every 3 to 4 hours. I used to go to bed from 12 to 1 a.m. to make sure the baby had the last feeding, and then got up at 6:30 to make sure she was fed before I went to work. During the rest of the day, my younger son, who is home almost all day long, took care of her.
Anyway, we, my husband, my two sons, and I, are all heart broken, and our house feels so empty. It is just so amazing how something so tiny and sweet filled our lives with joy and laughter in only the one month that we had her.
Clarissa, Thank You So Much for all you do for people like us. I just wanted you to know this and I promise that by this weekend, we'll send you some pictures of her. Thank you for all the information you put in your website, and especially for being there for us on Sunday, when we needed you through this hard and painful time. This really shows the love and dedication that you have for these sweet little creatures. As you said, we all need to be educated, and not afraid of caring for these wonderful, sweet creatures, if we ever had the opportunity to do it, especially our children.
I thank you so much, again, for your time and all the great information you have provided to people like us on your website. I just hope & pray that people like Marcia don’t discourage people like us to do the right thing. -- God bless you! -- Alicia Rasmussen, Torrance, CA (alicia.rasmussen@verizon.net) -- April 25, 2008
The twins did not return to their cage last night. This morning Maureen noticed Ring-A-Ding out 'nutting'. She fed him a nut and he headed up to one of the five boxes hung in the oak trees. Mo was excited to see Nutkin peering from the box. Evidently the boys slept there together last night. Maureen piled some nuts at the base of their tree to ease them thru their first day of freedom. Such an adventure the boys are having. We are so happy for them. They are where they are supposed to be. And ~ thanks to you, our Brandon Boys had the best start we were capable of giving them.
Maureen will keep their cage on her porch for a long while, door open, and nuts inside. So if either boy needs to 'come home' ........ it will be there for him/them. Also ~ Maureen keeps a squirrel 'feeding station' going for her wild children. The twins will be able to visit it each day.
Clarissa, I can't thank you enough for all the accurate information in your manual. And ~ how do I put into words our gratitude for all the time you've taken with us? ALL the emails you impeccably wrote us, ALL the questions you impeccably answered: The end product being two fat, glossy healthy boys released yesterday. Anyone who criticizes your methods and/or the Scalded Milk formula should see the end product: Squirrels who are HEALTHY and ready to begin running the 'tree trails'.
I only hope you write a book to share some of your stories. All your experiences should be put down on paper - too valuable to lose. Your life and your continuation of THE GREAT WORK inspires both my daughter and me. You have made a difference during your time on Mother Earth. I bow to you thrice. You are what we of my Tradition call a 'Star Changer'. As I've told you before, I 'see' that your next life is going to be a doozie -- you're really going to be able to shake the scheme of things! The Great Work must continue. Your work MUST go on. Too many tiny lives depend on it to suggest otherwise. It is not just about YOU, but about thousands of tiny lives your work has and will save.
If people like that dumb woman can't see the truth (given plainly in your website) they are not fit to raise the tiny ones. I shudder at the thought. If any of us are so full of ourselves that we no longer wish to learn a better way, we should give up. She obviously is stupid, but perhaps can be educated by her betters.
There is always a 'bottom line' in life. In the case of your website it is this: Your way works, no doubts, no questions. If your way is followed, healthy squirrels will be the end product. The Scalded Milk formula works like an absolute charm. And isn't that the desired result? What is the matter with these people?
As I told you in past emails, I had failures in two baby squirrels. I have learned thru your manual what the problem was: calcium. Keep in mind, this was way before computers and websites. The information you have out there changed everything: The boys we released were NOT dragging hind quarters. They were healthy, glossy, and full of themselves. Well, enough said.
My daughter and I send you our love, admiration, thanks, and our great respect. ... And, I remain -- Your Florida fan -- Markianne*** (April 3, 2008)
I had a great squirrel friend several years ago, and I followed your advice explicitly (oh the joy of making nut balls!). I found him when he was about three weeks old, and looked to have been pulled from his nest by a predator, probably a crow. He must have been a fair distance from his drey, since Mom never came looking for him. Following all of your advice, he lived several years, and he was my best little buddy.
I realized that I never thanked you for having all of this information available.
Thank you so much for all of the effort you have put into your website. I'm sure there are many people like me who never took the time to thank you, but I am sure I speak for all of us, including our squirrel friends, when I say how much your work is appreciated. -- Thomas -- (April 2, 2008)
I have to wonder how all the other advice out there keeps squirrels alive!! He was fairly lively until yesterday evening and then it was like a 180 downhill turn. He was doing great for a whole week and just went downhill in one day, got up lethargic and lifeless. I was dreading telling my 6-year-old and I thought for sure he was going to heaven in the night, but he managed to wake up this morning and drink the Scalded milk and Vitamin E. He doesn't like the yogurt but he drank it. He was not nearly this happy on that other expensive stinky stuff!!
I am just amazed at the change in just 7 hours time. I think his tail got puffier! He actually squealed at me to eat a little bit ago. He is napping now again. Thanks so much for your help. I will keep in touch....and I will give him pecans -- he's chewing on everything now. -- Penny -- March 31, 2008
The work you do is so awesome! My babies come to me for handouts as well! They will take food from me and don't mind me petting them or scratching their ears, but don't like to be picked up so I guess I did OK in keeping them somewhat wild. They won't come up to anyone but me. I have lots of nut and fruit trees (pecan and apple are their favorites!) in my yard as well as plant a garden that they love to rob and I don't mind! I tell everyone I planted it for them and I eat what they don't want! One of the reasons I plant a garden is like you said, a lot of the things in grocery stores don't even taste like they should. Not much tastes fresh like they say or even like real fruits and veggies. I buy Purity milk, it says no hormones as well but like you I wonder! -- Cyndi Quick -- March 12, 2008
Thanks again for all the info. Now when someone helps me with babies I give them a copy of your book. I have enjoyed reading your info. -- THANKS AGAIN! -- Vanessa and Tubby Squirrel -- March 5, 2008
Once again THANKS A LOT for your web site and the wonderful information. -- Marcene -- March 5, 2008
I have found that rehabbers are very snotty and against a lot of the things that I have found work. I basically use your page for most of my info. I have only lost one baby, that was the very first that you helped me with. Unfortunately I did not recognize his problem in time. I have raised about 20 babies in the past 3 years and the Vit. E with the Scalded Milk seems to work really good. That is all I have given them as babies. -- I appreciate your page! Thank you sooo much for your help. -- Kind regards, Rhonda -- February 18, 2008
Thanks to your site I did not give the babies Pedialite like a different site said! You really helped me save their lives. Thank you and God bless. -- By the way.....their names are Peanut, Rosco and Samantha. : o) -- Teresa from Orlando -- February 17, 2008
I wrote to you some time ago about how well Squirry was doing with us. Yes, he was and so were we, so happy with him around. His daily feeds, games with us, pranks in his kennel and brief sojourns on my palm & hand were what contributed so much happiness to our last 6 years of existence. We have been losing our pets, both cats & dogs, at regular intervals all these years, but Squirry was our prop all along. He showed us what life was all about.
He died as he lived, with his chin up & very, very bravely indeed. He was such a brave boy, Clarissa, nothing scared him as long as he knew we were around. Even the festival-time crackers (in India) were no threat to him. If he had any pain at all, he surely didn't show it to us. It was as if he just wanted to say goodbye to us without causing us any pain. Sigh!! We think it was old age complications. The net says Indian tree squirrels live up to 6 & a little more in captivity. You will know better for sure. He was never ever sick all his life with us. He just slackened off on his bi-daily meals only for a little over a day, that's all. His milk he did have, though, the evening before he passed away.
Last evening we found him lying side down in his kennel & urinating. We knew there was something amiss & took him into our bedroom. He just lay down between the two of us (wife & self) and slowly slipped away. It was too much for us, Clarissa. Just 8" of fur but so much of love & everything that's nice. We had him with us all through the night & buried him in our front yard just this morning. Our daughter rushed down for the funeral from near here where she lives.
Squirry was very fond of my grand-daughter who was born 2 years after he came into our lives. She is 4 now & old enough to understand, we suppose. A sad event in our lives has come to pass. Squirry will be added to our long list of pets who are waiting beyond the Golden shores for us when we do depart this world. That's our belief as we are Catholics by religion. We, however, contrarily believe that animals, too, have souls like we do & they will, too, receive us when we reach the yonder world. We equate all life forms, no inequality.
Sorry to have taken so much of your time, Clarissa, but we thought that yours is the best shoulder to cry on. Your advice & guidance during those critical early hours & days 6 years ago when Squirry was brought in by our cat were, to say the least, absolutely precious. Our sincere gratitude to you once again & best wishes in your endeavours. -- Thank you, friend, & pray for our Squirry. -- Valsa & Jaideep -- India -- February 4, 2008
He LOVED the nutballs. Thanks for all the research you have put into this. I feel assured he is getting all the nutrients he needs now. My husband laughed at me when I told him not to eat one as they were drying. He thought they were candy for the church bake sale! I told him not to drink the whole milk, that it belonged to the squirrel, and he just looked at me funny! He's very proud that "Squirrely-q" is thriving.
We have the same murderous type that run our wildlife rescue at Oak Mountain. (Alabama). For years I have counseled people to try to get info on the Internet about rearing orphans, and have even informed many horrified people as to what will happen to their little orphan if taken to the rescue. They become dinner for the raptors, which I think should totally be made public. How disgusting it was for me to find out, and I think of all the people who believe they are doing the right thing by turning these helpless babies over to "the professionals". I'm on my soapbox now -- forgive me.
Please feel free to include my name in your guestbook, and anything else you might need to use! "Squirrely-Q" and I would have been lost without your wonderful guidance during his infancy, and I am happy to report he is totally weaned, eating like a horse, and would do anything for a Nutball! He graduated last night into his "grown-up cage" which is approximately 3ft x 2ft. He absolutely got cocky about it! He loves all the room, and has his nesting box, his maple branches to climb on, a ladder to go up and down, and several shelves to leap from. He tickles us because he looks like a banner-waving airplane jumping from place to place with a streamer of toilet paper in his mouth!
It is quite obvious that this is your lifetime's work, and you are due many stars in your crown for your accomplishments. Thanks again, Clarissa. I hope we will be able to stay in touch. I am just an old Southern, grandma animal lover that wants to do what's right. Your friend in all that's squirrelly -- Amy in Alabama -- November 21, 2007
I never knew about the seizures and diet deficiencies.....since none of the web sites I saw ever mentioned any of this. After a seizure last night, I found my little friend dead in his cage this morning. He was still warm. I was heartbroken. He had come to be very affectionate... and liked to sit on my shoulder. I have never raised any animal from such a young age... and I had developed a strong bond with my furry little friend. I wish I had found your web site first. Maybe he would still be alive today if I had. I will miss him for a long time. I've had many many animals over the years of my life... and he was a real sweet animal.
Please feel free to use my email in any way if it may help save any future rehabbers from the experience I had with my squirrel. I am still amazed at how a wild and nervous animal like a squirrel could feel so comfortable and relaxed with a human. It was an experience I will never forget. Keep up the good work! -- John B. -- U.S.A -- November 5, 2007
As you know, you helped/guided/were my solid rock in raising Frank(ie). I did NOT follow your advice like I should have and I think it cost Frank(ie) her life. I thought she was ready for release. She wasn't. I haven't seen her in almost 2 weeks this Sunday. I have seen what I THINK is her, but, she runs from me now, and Frank(ie) never ran from me. The tree I released her in had an abandoned squirrel's nest in it and she soon took it over in preference to the squirrel box we had for her in that tree. She showed so many signs of independence that made me think she was ready. I will never ever live this down. All that work was for naught because I fear Frank(ie) has fallen victim to some terrible fate. She has not come back to me directly like she used to in almost two weeks. The 3 squirrels I see in my back yard (I continue to leave her food/Nutballs on the ladder I always fed her on) all run from me when I come outside. I can't tell if one of them might be Frank(ie) because they all look alike. The only way I ever distinguished her is she was the one who didn't run when I came outside. She stayed and waited for me to give her pecans!
When I let her out so I could clean her cage, she would really throw a fit and would jump on me and run across my chest and get in my face and chatter to me like she was really mad. I decided she was ready to be released. STUPID CHOICE!!!!
I started her out by taking her 2' by 2' cage outside for the day (during September, when it is very nice here in MS.). I would not open the cage. I just let her get to know the sights and sounds around her. She clung to the door of the cage just BEGGING to be let out. I didn't wanna let her go. One pretty Sunday, I planned on sitting outside all day with her and I opened the cage. She was 4 and 1/2 months old. TOO SOON, I KNOW, CLARISSA! She went out, hopped on me, then the tree, went straight up to the top, (I BAWLED MY EYES OUT) and she ran all around the tree, looked in the squirrel's nest (that was abandoned) and after 2 hours (I stayed the whole time, crying) then she hopped back on my shoulder as if to say "I'm just not ready," and I took her back inside and put her back in her cage. But, I did this every day for 2 weeks. I let her out, she played, came back and we went back inside.
One day, 2 Sundays ago, I fed her milk (she loved the Scalded Milk), and took her out to "HER" tree and after a few hours, she would not come back to me. She never came back to me since. I have squawled my eyes out every day. I still put food out for her. She has a water bottle in the tree. There has been no water taken from the bottle. It has rained for almost EVERY day of this past 2 weeks that she has been missing. I soaked myself every night calling her name (I have always said her name out loud every day when I fed her since 6 weeks old) outside underneath her tree. But then, I read that sometimes they stay in the nest for days in cold weather and days when it's bad weather. WHY OH WHY DID I LET HER GO?????????? Because I thought I was cheating her of a life as a squirrel. She had no handicaps, she was very healthy, (THANKS TO THE SCALDED MILK FORMULA, NO MATTER WHAT ANYONE SAYS, CLARISSA IS RIGHT, YOU JUST HAVE TO SCALD THE MILK, THAT'S ALL) and she displayed the characteristics of a squirrel that knew what to do........so I thought it would be cruel to keep her in our cage. She was so ready, I THOUGHT!
PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PEOPLE........DON'T PUT YOUR BABIES OUT JUST BECAUSE THEY BECOME AGRESSIVE AND DEFENSIVE!!!!!! IT'S THEIR INSTINCT BUT IT DOESN'T MEAN THEY ARE READY TO BE RELEASED!!!!!!!!!!!! Just because they don't want or need your touch anymore doesn't mean they are ready for the OUTSIDE WORLD! You just HAVE to keep them and wait till spring.
I wish I had listened to Clarissa. I KNEW she knew what she was talking about, but she DID say that ALL squirrels are different and they will TELL you when they are ready. I REALLY felt that Frank(ie) was ready and because I THOUGHT I KNEW WHAT FRANK(IE) needed, MORE THAN CLARISSA, that she probably needlessly met with her demise, BECAUSE OF ME!!!!!!!!!!!!!
PLEASE, PLEASE, LISTEN TO CLARISSA. SHE IS TRULY KNOWLEDGEABLE AND WILL NOT EVER STEER YOU WRONG, FOR THE SAKE OF THE SQUIRRELS SHE LOVES SO MUCH!!!!!! -- Love ya, Angi Wilson -- Mississippi -- October 28, 2007
On Oct 22 her brother, Mathew fell from the nest. He was about one third of the way into the fall when he grabbed onto a limb. At least that is what we think happened. I was in the house with the windows closed and the AC on when I heard him crying. My toy poodle began to bark. I thought it was Miracle and went to see what the problem was. Miracle was fast asleep. I continued looking for the source of the crying and spotted Mathew high up in the tree, frantically hanging onto a limb. Woody ran for a ladder. But before he could get it in position the baby fell. This one did not break his fall at all. When I got to him he was knocked cold and I thought he was dead. He began to move in a few seconds and we quickly put him in the plastic coffee can with Miracle. This coffee can, sitting on a pot holder on a heating pad was their home for the next week or so. Then we moved them to a 20-gallon aquarium for more space and then purchased a mesh top for the aquarium. About a week ago, we purchased two cages that they seem to love. They could not stay together because she would molest him and she is the biggest and he couldn't get away.
A couple of days after he fell, he turned deep purple from his neck to his scrotum. I wasn't at all sure he would recover. But he did and we now have two very affectionate squirrels in our guest bathroom. I think, judging from your description of appearances at certain ages, that they were probably about 3 or 4 weeks old when we got them.
They do enjoy playing together while I clean one of the cages. I hope Miracle gets over her illicit desires soon so they can grow up in the same cage. I have looked at the pictures you have posted in your online album, and still don't know enough about squirrels to know what kind these are. They are grey with some red in their tales and on their feet and a pale apricot belly. If you can help me identify them, I will be grateful.
I cannot tell you how much I appreciate all the information you have put online. Without it I'm sure I would not have had the success that I have had. Miss Daisy, our toy poodle, thinks they are her babies and insists on bathing them after each feeding. They seem to like it as it calms them and they turn to her to clean their faces if they sneeze while feeding. Miss Daisy paces the floor and comes after me at feeding time. She is very concerned about them and really dislikes them being looked at or handled by anyone but me. She sits on my lap in the recliner while I feed them and waits impatiently for a chance to lick them. We are all amused and amazed. You can sign me in your guest book. I will send pictures of Miracle and Mathew at a later date. -- Thanks again, Sharron, Coppell, TX -- October 27, 2007
He's in that stage of the "ghosts" right now and I hope he outgrows that soon -- *sighs*
Anyhow....any help/advice you can share with me would be MUCH appreciated!!! And by the way, He LOVES the Nutballs!!!! I'm starting on a stricter regiment tomorrow -- lol -- it's been all nilly-willy and he's had the opportunity to start stashing. So I'm obviously giving him way too much food -- *sighs* He just ALWAYS wants something when he sees me -- *smiles* It's food, mostly he wants, but he does love to be scratched on, too, lol.
You are so right about the other info out there about these little guys, it's a bunch of bunk really. I think they are definitely into the scare tactics *sighs* But I tell you, just by watching this little squirrel and how he is absolutely thriving on the Scalded Milk, and getting fatter by the day, and NOW is on solids & Nutballs (along with a little Scalded Milk still, he just won't give it up yet -- lol) is testament to the fact that you know what the hell you're talking about! I am so glad I found YOUR site FIRST!! ;) To be honest, I forget now what I put in google to get your site, but happy you were the first I clicked on ;)
Thank you again so much for your time in reading my mail and writing me back your response and hopefully the little squirrel that I have isn't going to have any underlying, permanent injuries from the concrete :( It's weird because my driveway has no trees directly hanging over it, but it's possible that he could have fallen and then crawled to where I found him? But I think that's kind of unlikely too, only because he was so small and his eyes weren't even open. Poor little guy was freezing to death and the outside temp was around 90 degrees! I live in Florida lol so it gets incredibly hot here :( If he didn't freeze to death, surely the fire ants would have done him in :( The timing was perfect for him on that fateful day, I'm just glad I got to him when I did, and amazingly enough......not a single cat in sight either :)
Thank you so much for this VERY informative site!!! ;) Thanks again, Clarissa, you are truly a gem!!! *hugs to you* -- Tami in Florida -- October 20, 2007
I kept her in my home and fell in love with her for 11 months. I'll never forget the love she showed me when she would hang upside down and let me rub her head and chest. The connection was amazing. I can't be for sure that Jo is still there, but I feel in my heart that who I see is her and her babies. Thank you so much for your help. Jo owes you her life and I owe you a memory.
I also found an orphaned baby wild duck in Tennessee that was named Franklin. I raised him until he had enough feathers to fly. I called a bird santuary and mistakenly got a conservation officer that practically chewed me out and told me that I had broken the law and should release him immediately regardless of his chance for survival. I was so upset that he was so uncaring. He told me that the law of survival had been broken and he might be food for another animal. I decided that I could not do that so I took care of Franklin until he could be released in the river below my parents' where other ducks roam. He would come up for food for a long time when dad would whistle. By the way, I look at the woods every time I'm outside hoping Jo can hear me. The neighbors must think I'm crazy when I call for her. I still believe she is out there somewhere. Thanks again. -- Linda Poe, Athens, W.V. -- October 18, 2007
I am so grateful that I found your site several years ago when I first found him and I have faithfully followed your advice on everything. I have even referred back to it several times when in doubt about certain foods. I have used your plan since 2001. It works and George can testify to that.
I am sure glad you do what you do. I especially agree with your saying of who says we can't keep them as pets when we know for a fact they can't be re-habbed back to nature. I dare anyone to try and tell me I can't take care of him.
So thanks again for helping save George. He will have a forever place until he is called back to nature. -- Tosca Jones, Wyoming -- October 10, 2007
The next step was to look on the Internet where we fortunately found your website – Squirrel Nutrition and Care. I am happy to say that our babies, thanks to your priceless knowledge and instructions, are doing extremely well. Thanks to you and all the support you have provided us during the past 50 + days we are confident that, when the day comes, these babies will have normal lives amongst their own kind. They have been a real pleasure for us to watch grow and have them teach us their habits and characteristics. We will certainly never view squirrels the same way again.
My wife and I thank you sincerely for always being there to answer our many questions. -- Highest regards & respect, Jack & Sandy Humphreys -- Northern Alabama -- October 3, 2007
I want to thank you for the best website in the world for baby squirrel care. I am following your instructions to the letter. Your website is brilliant - absolutely total and comprehensive. I can't imagine the work you've put into such a masterpiece of info. And your hands-on experience is a WOW!
It amazes me the 'disinformation' in the squirrel websites - and from people who are supposed to be wildlife rehabilitators. My thanks to the Earth Mother who got me to your site.
I have made up your Scalded Milk - Vitamin E formula and am using it. There is SO MUCH for me to learn, and I shall, (thanks to you) I've printed out your website into my own Squirrel Nutrition and Care manual. From the looks of things, I didn't do a lot correctly with my first three babies, but I am learning from your information. Hate to bother you, but these tiny ones (2 little brothers) are very precious to me, and I'll do anything I can to raise them properly. What a great service you have done for those of us who are trying to raise baby squirrels.
My grandsons found the baby boy-squirrels in Brandon, Fl. They report that massive portions of the nest were down, and a squirrel they assumed to be the mother was tearing through the remaining nest site and tossing stuff down. After reading your email, I am wondering if it could have been a rogue male squirrel, and not the squirrel mom. My daughter drove the babies down to Bradenton and I had them within 2 hours of their fall from the tree.
And now, permit me to say this: THERE CAN'T BE ENOUGH 'PRAISE CLARISSA' !!!!! Not many people could or would take the time to do what you've done for wildlife. There are not enough words I can use to express my admiration. The Earth Mother smiles on you!
Words here fail me. I can only say thank you for being the Great Squirrel Godmother. Many best wishes from a fan here in Florida ...... Markianne -- Bradenton, Florida -- September 13, 2007
I just wanted you to know that I tried to have a trained person take Teddy and raise her but I was told to just let her die because they already have too many babies being hand raised. She said that it may seem cruel but that's life. I just thanked her and hung up. I really wasn't too surprised since I was told the same thing about the baby skunk I raised and the baby opossums. I have also raised a Night Hawk, an Owl and a baby Raccoon.
Teddy is eating like a little pig and getting to be a healthy little thing. I know a woman who raises baby coons etc. And she uses a baby nurser and I'm not sure what kind of milk, but I do know that a lot of them die and they never look healthy! I am going to see her next Monday and you can be sure that I will educate her!
I do want to thank you for all your help. Your site is great and you are a wonderful person for taking the time to educate people like me. -- Thank You again -- Your new friend from the Bayou -- Suzannne -- August 1, 2007
I had never used the Scalded Milk formula, always KMR/Esbilac and had good success with it. In the last couple years, we found that we had a higher mortality rate with both squirrels and raccoons to our understanding the formula has been changed twice for KMR/Esbilac...we were told we had to request the "rehabbers" formula. hmmm ~! Other rehabbers in our network began complaining of the same issues. My vet, whose CVT lives across the road from me, assisted us in attempts to discover the problem. Last year I lost 6 coons and euthanized 8 more. My vet found nothing in the necropsy that we could blame for the loss. So now we have baby coons again.......tried the Scalded Milk with them...seems to work. No weight lost with this formula, active and healthy and no blessed runny poops ! So my question is: Do you reccomend this SAME formula for coons or can you suggest something more suitable for them....I am DONE with KMR and Esbilac.
Would really apreciate some good nutritional advice if you have any to offer for coons....I mostly get orphaned babies that I raise and release. I have a girl in our network who rehabs mainly squirrels, so unless she gets overwhelmed I only do a few. -- Lynda, Director, Sky Harbor Inc., Hudson, Florida -- May 30, 2007
Anyway, approximately four weeks before release, we transferred Cracker from his large indoor cage to a huge (about 6ft X 6ft x 4ft) outdoor cage in the garage, which my husband built of wood and chicken wire. He put several tree limbs in the cage for Cracker to climb on, along with a nesting box, ropes to climb, toys, etc. His estimated age was about six months old. After four weeks of his getting used to the sounds, temperatures and outside world, we moved his cage to the base of a big pine tree. A few days later, we opened the door and allowed him to venture out at his own pace. He did so immediately.
We knew he was ready to go, as he kept pacing and chewing on the cage. He went right up the pine tree and spent the entire day running back and forth on the limbs of the pine, exploring and enjoying his freedom. That night and every night after, he would return to his cage to sleep. But in the morning, he'd be back to his business of exploration. Each day since then he has discovered many new trees, fences, yards, other squirrels, etc. He wanted to climb up our legs at first, but we discouraged this behaviour and he is approaching people less and less and keeping his distance like a real squirrel!
He does mostly stay in our yard and each morning and evening we continue to spot him eating the supplemental feedings we put out for him, in addition to his foraging for natural foods. We also put out a flower pot dish of water for him from which he drinks. Not only does Cracker enjoy our offerings of fruit, nuts, water, etc. but every gray tree squirrel in our neighborhood also enjoys it!
They are all so fun to watch and we have learned so much about these beautiful, gentle creatures from this experience! Cracker now lives in the oak tree behind our house with a few other squirrel friends and he is the most gorgeous of all of them! Thanks to your recommended daily diet, the Scalded Milk formula and the Nutballs, he has the most beautful coat and full, large, colorful tail of any of the other squirrels in our neighborhood!
Thank you again, Clarissa, for your support and for sharing your knowledge and experience on this website!!! -- Sincerely, Debbie, Gene and, especially, Cracker :) -- Debngene4u@aol.com -- March 24, 2007
I went on the web and found some information which said to feed formula---so I bought some Enfamil and a baby bottle at the pet store. Snoopy got diarrhea , and after more searching I found Clarissa's site and it made more sense especially with all her successes. So I followed everything to a "T", and Snoopy did wonderful!! The Scalded Milk formula and Nutballs made a strong and healthy squirrel.
About two weeks ago I let Snoopy out of his cage on the back patio as his present cage was too small for him. I guess he was about 6 or 7 months old. He made his way out front and was running frantically all over. It was getting dark and I tried to get him to go back to his cage. After several hours my husband and I herded him back. He was so scared and so were we that he may get hit by a car. I realize now he was too young and immature to release.
I called a wildlife rehabber to see if she had a pre-release cage and thankfully hers was in use by a raccoon. I told her about the Scalded Milk formula and she was surprised at how well it worked. She said she was going to mention that at the next meeting since kitten formula was so expensive. I also gave her Clarissa's E-mail address! Next, I e-mailed Clarissa for help----should have done it sooner!!! To my surprise she answered immediately and has answered all my questions. Well, we knew his cage was too small and he was too young to release, so my husband built a larger cage and he's so happy in it. We plan to release Snoopy late March early April and hopefully being older, he'll do better.
After all is said and done----follow Clarissa's instructions and advice completely----it works!!! I can't thank her enough for caring and answering so quickly!! God bless her. -- Deanna -- near Sacramento, California -- February 14, 2007
My baby, Cracker, is doing great on the Scalded Milk formula and the Nutballs, along with your suggested feeding guide of fruits, vegetables and nuts. I follow your recommended feeding guide to a tee and he seems to be doing wonderfully! I like your overall caring approach and helping attitude toward the little guys. When my baby became sick from actually eating too much apple twig, you emailed good, caring advice promptly! He was fine again within 24 hours!
My husband found Cracker, a baby gray, one evening at the base of our very large elm tree in our front yard. He was cold and shivering and our cat was playing with him. My husband immediately placed him in an outdoor cage, wrapped in one of his t-shirts, under a heat lamp. I got online and found your website and brought him in the house right away to a homemade incubator. I fed him some Scalded Milk with an oral syringe. His eyes were still closed, but opened after a few days.
It was around this time that my husband witnessed a hawk carrying away one of Crackers siblings from the drey. A couple of weeks later, he found the stiff carcass of another one of his siblings by the base of the elm. It appeared that this unfortunate baby had starved to death and then was blown down out of the tree with a strong wind. Obviously, these babies were truly orphaned - the reason why will only be a guess for us.
Now I estimate Cracker's age to be around 11 or 12 weeks old. He is still taking two formula feedings daily, along with the Nutballs and solid foods. He is very cute and gentle, yet extremely playful and so much fun to watch! We will soft-release him to the trees in our back yard when the time comes this spring and hope he sticks around to visit us occasionally.
Thanks again for all of your knowledgable information and support based on many years of experience! Your expertise is over 2500 squirrels strong - you can't go wrong with those stats!!! -- We thank you and all of the squirrels out there thank you! -- Sincerely, Debbie -- Debngene4u@aol.com -- December 3, 2006
We did research on the Internet on how to care for him, and several sources we found said to feed him Esbilac. We did. He did well for a while, but around 7 weeks of age he began to lose his hair and suffer bouts of lethargy. Just before he turned eight weeks old he suffered a major seizure as I held him in my hand. We were desperate for help; but I was determined not to turn him over to a vet., fearing he would be euthanized.
My partner’s brother found your website and shared it with us. Although our previous research said cow’s milk would make Rocky ill, after reading your information, we made a leap of faith and tried the Scalded Milk formula. The results were nearly immediate. He began to recover within 24 hours. After a few weeks his hair grew back. Rocky is now a healthy, active, stubborn, mischievous little squirrel. I am attaching some photos for you.
We always assumed Rocky’s mother and siblings remained in their nest, but about the time he became sick, his family nest disappeared completely from the pine tree without a trace. Our neighbor across the street told us she saw a hawk next door with a squirrel in its talons. We think Rocky is now truly an orphan.
We have him weaned now, and he eats one of your Nutballs everyday. We plan to release him in the back yard next spring. Till then we plan to follow your advice because it works. -- Thank you -- George, Scott, and Rocky -- gwellborn2005@netzero.com -- November 28, 2006
I have 8 squirrels now and have been rehabbing squirrels for 6 years. Thank you for putting your info out. You're saving squirrels daily and I wish we could convince those narrow-minded people that good old fashioned full of calcium and vitamins COW'S milk is the answer....I'll keep trying though. -- Thank you -- Sharon Reese, Category 2 Wildlife Rehabber, 6 years. Salem, Virginia -- reese2resque@aol.com -- October 5, 2006
I have looked for years for an answer to the question--how can I raise a wild baby mammal? And it's so simple--it's Scalded Milk. What a relief to know that I can avoid disaster right from the beginning! I've had the squirrels, Clare and Issa (named for you-know-who) for four weeks today. They are exquisite and fascinating little creatures. Last night I stayed up and enjoyed their nocturnal romping.
It's been a complete delight to raise animals that are so vigorous and strong. They are entering that "scared of everything" stage, so I went ahead and made nutballs so I'd be prepared for the day they turn away from the milk. I've already dropped one feeding but they like their pecans and tried some apple yesterday. They take their milk in the cage now--I just hold the syringe and they grab on, sipping like pros.
Several things that you said especially impressed me and one is what you cannot teach, the squirrels will. How true. I had to experience that to understand. The other is that they are all individuals. From the beginning they each had their own quirky preferences...they even nursed differently. While the wildlife people teach and promote incorrect and deadly methods for raising squirrels and other animals, your common sense approach is life affirming.
Thank you again. I'd have never learned without you! -- Maryl in the Delta -- October 5, 2006
I nursed the little guy for 2 weeks and then another squirrel fell out of the same nest. Again, I put the little gal, Screechy (screeched every time she got picked up), out to see if mom would pick her up. Trying to be law abiding and all, I was looking for a rehabber seeing it is illegal to possess squirrels in Massachusetts. There was no one willing to take them. I was finally told to take the litlle ones to the New England Wildlife Center. It was so painful giving up the little darlings. I dropped them off on 9/23/06. I was in tears.
Well, this particular center makes it on the 11:00 o'clock news by Wednesday for animal neglect among other things. I call around to find out if there is another place I can take the babies to. I went to pick them up on Saturday 9/30/06 to check that they are ok and also to take them to a facility that specializes in small mammals. When I got there they told me the babies had died. I believe they were euthanized. They gave me a b.s. story about how they had diarrhea (they had no diarrhea when I dropped them off -- their stool was well formed) -- then all of a sudden they change their story to it was probably squirrel pox.
I was so angry. Is this what happens to baby squirrels when they are turned over to a rescue? I feel horrible I sent these sweet little creatures to their death. If only I had known. I was looking forward to seeing them grow up. The little sweeties got to the point that they would recognize my voice and would climb over each other looking for food. I was really surprised that they survived the fall from the maple - It is about a 40 foot drop.
Many people I told my story to did not see what the big deal was (they are only squirrels they would reply). You were the first person that actually cared. I really don't understand why squirrels are so maligned. They cause humans no harm. It seems the most common complaint is they get into cellars and feeders -- a mere anoyance at most. Yet people see this as good enough reason to exterminate the poor creatures. Getting into cellars is nothing in comparison to the destruction we have wreaked upon the Earth. We have so lost our perspective. We are such a disposable society - it is awful. However, I was in no way prepared to deal with the fact that our wildlife rescues and some rehabbers have this same attitude.
Clarissa, your Guest Book is impressive. I loved reading the comments. It's so nice to know there are still people out there that care for our wildlife. I very much like your idea about putting more info about the wildlife rescues and their agenda. For my part I will definitely spread the word on these wildlife rescues and start advocating for squirrels. -- Thanks for listening (reading).-- Sincerely, Mary Dunn, Watertown, MA -- TANARIVE@aol.com -- October 3, 2006
Thank you so much for sharing your information. I have copied all of it and keep it in a notebook for future reference. -- Barbara in South Carolina -- September 25, 2006
My daughter brought one home last Tuesday and I just couldn't remember what all they ate. I looked at the other web sites before I got to yours and I couldn't believe after reading the others, had I not continued to your web site, I would have killed her. They actually recommended those formulas. Your information was so incredible I feel like I'm an expert now..... almost.
I have to ask you a question though. I live in Florida and we have lots of ants. When I start putting her outside, and the house in the tree that you lock her up in the evening, what do you do? We get so much rain, the ants are always going up. What if when you start letting her out, how do you know she's going to come back? I know how smart and secure she is with her cage now, will it be like that then? She won't be scared of all that goes on outside?
I ask because I found myself up a tree with our last one when I'd put her on the tree and something startled her, she ran up and wouldn't come down I was probably 31 then and all I could only ask myself was what in the hell I was doing climbing trees for at that age. (You can break bones!) So here it is 14 years later and I know I'm not going up the tree. Falling through a ceiling once was enough for me!
I want to do this right. Any advice or suggestions would be greatly appreciated. -- Thank you for the education.-- Sincerely; Renee' Scrima -- Myatta2ds@aol.com -- September 19, 2006
They are eating very well on their own and drink water fine. So feeding them isn't a problem. We have had them close to two weeks now and they are growing and seem to be doing fine. I think they're about 1-1/2 months old? They have a large cage to live in, about 3ft x 2ft x 2ft. I have tried to keep the inside as natural as I can with leaves, pine branches and a small limb from an apple tree that they can climb on. Plus they have their chunk of old wool blanket that they nest in.
Well I just wanted to let you know what we have and how helpful your web site has been! -- I'll stay in touch and keep you up on "the twins"! -- Thanks, Ricc........ricc9@verizon.net -- September 16, 2006
Of course people can put any kind of info on the net and one can never be sure if it they are being honest and know what they are talking about, but reading through these instructions anyone can tell that this is written by a person who really cares and wants to do the right thing.
Well, Sammy is growing like a weed and just opened his eyes today. What a cutie! -- First I thought he was a rat and did not really want anything to do with him, but anyone with a heart in the right spot can not watch something squirm around in the dirt (not even a rat!), suffering, cold and scared . So I am glad I did the right thing (was not sure at first, but Clarissa answered all of my questions patiently - and right away!! - and reassured me).. Sammy will enrich our life for the next 5-6 months and then hopefully have a good life in the woods behind our house. I will keep you updated on his growth, Clarissa. -- Thank you so much again! -- Tanja in Arkansas :) --September 15, 2006
He had seizures all the first night. About every 30 minutes he would scream and fling himself into the corner of the box and his little heart would beat so fast. Finally we all fell asleep and truthfully I was surprised to find him alive in the morning. I worried his injuries may be too much so I called my (EX) vet who offered to do a "mercy euthanasia" for free. No thank you! If he dies I vowed, he will at least be warm and looked after in my care until then.
Back onto the Internet where I was stunned and confused to see so many different theories, each claiming to be the only way, but in the end my common sense prevailed and I went with Scalded Milk recipe (but with a twist -- we only drink Organic milk so baby got organic milk too). He never had any more seizures and has thrived since then. We call him Earl the Squirrel.
At 6 weeks his eyes opened, one and then the other like you said. We estimate him to be about 8 weeks old now, he is well furred and bright-eyed and eagerly drinks about 15 to 18 ccs per 4 x a day feeding. His tail is starting to get bushy and he is very active and well, squirrely.
I have a few questions about his development -- he is still very unsteady on his feet and often walks in circles and just sorta falls all over but he is getting better every day. He does seem more coordinated on my 'tree hand' that he clings to and spins on when I am feeding him. Is being unsteady normal 8 week old stuff ?
Also, I'm pretty sure we have a real tooth problem - his bottom 2 teeth are WAY to the left of the upper teeth, maybe he fell on his face? He did have a little black spot on his nostril when we found him. What can we do about such a misaligment? Appreciate any ideas and help. He is just starting to chew on the pecan I put in his cage but does not seem to crumble much yet.
It is funny because now that I am SQUIRREL AWARE, I can see his nest and I have seen his mama scolding my cat from a tree. I also have a male adult in my back yard who ate every single pecan off my tree (and flung the shells on my patio) by the end of August. Forget Christmas Pecans this year everyone. Earl's dad ate em all, so I had to BUY pecans for my little baby.
Thanks again for all your help. Please feel free to add us to your Guest Book. We are grateful for your knowledge and willingness to share. SCALDED MILK has been working for us - Earl is fat and sassy and seems very content. -- The Watkins in Texas -- September 11, 2006.
I scrapped the batch of Nutballs I dried in the oven, and threw the Monkey Biscuits out to the crows. I ordered more dolomite, alphalfa etc on line and will make another batch as soon as I get my shipment. It's o.k if he goes a few days with out them right? I'll dry them in the sun or under a light this time. I gave him the scalded milk with a little banana mixed in and he didn't want it at first. He finally ate some, but this morning he wouldn't take any. He did eat some kale, kiwi, apple, a raw cashew, raw fresh corn and some zucchini. I'll try to give him milk again tonight before he gets anything else. I do notice that he seems much calmer he doesn't seem as hyper although he's very active and likes to play. Maybe he's weaning himself.
I read your information a few more times and got more information! There's a lot of information to absorb. Eventually I'll have it memorized. I keep referring back to it. Your information is priceless! I've thrown away the other information I printed. I've made a list of vegetables that are calcium blockers and will only give him those in the morning. At night he'll have his nut ball and other fruits and vegetables that don't block the calcium. Is it safe to say that starchy vegetables are calcium blockers? He has a really big appetite. His favorite is raw organic cashews (no salt or sugar) and pine nuts.
I appreciate all of your information and the time you took to respond to me. Because of you I will do things right and my little one will live to be released and have a nice life. There is nothing worse than someone meaning well and killing an animal because of laziness or lack of correct knowledge. If I didn't find your site, I might have fallen into that category! Most people don't realize that taking a baby animal in is a long commitment. Some of my friends think I'm "over doing it" by keeping him until Spring. (dummies)
I live in the Northwestern part of Connecticut. It's the last rural area left. My property borders 10,000 acres of state forest so he'll have his choice of trees! We'll build a nice nest box for him in a sheltered area. There are hunters in the woods, but they don't go after squirrels.
I would never call a rehabber in this area. They do nothing but dispose of the poor little critters once they kill them! It's a shame that I have to worry about "getting caught" helping a small helpless animal. Last time I looked this was still the USA, but sometimes I feel like I'm living in Russia where everything is watched and even good deeds are condemned. I don't care what the laws say, I'll do what's right even if it means breaking the law. Besides the people who make the laws don't have a clue. I'm so tired of the politicians, their dumb laws and politics. They're all a bunch of boobs and no matter who we elect, nothing will change. Our government is a tangled mess, but as tangled as it is, I wouldn't want to live anywhere else! Things would be a lot different if I were running the show!
When I get a digital camera, or if can take a good one with my cell phone and have someone down load it to my computer at work, I'll e-mail you a picture of my little guy before I release him in the Spring. You can add my success story to your site if you want to.
Maybe when I retire in another 25 years I'll become a full time rehabber! ( a real one, not affiliated with the State) : )
Thank you again. I can't tell you how grateful I am to have found your information! -- Ellen in Connecticut -- September 7, 2006
We left the babies for a couple hours in the roof, but Mom did not return and we found ourselves the proud parents to what we thought was 3 baby squirrels. As it turns out, 1 of them had died at some point and we were in fact left with only 2. So, on with the "zillion" feedings a day including the dreaded middle of the night feedings. Fortunately I work shift work and my wife works only part-time so these feedings were not all that impossible to deal with.
We did however lose one of the babies days after taking them in. We are now a family to only 1 baby, but the good news is he, now named Lucky by my 3-year-old, seems to be doing excellently.
Through research, mostly from your site, we were able to learn more than we ever imagined about baby squirrels. We are fairly certain Lucky was approx 1 1/2 days old when we found him. He is now almost 7 weeks old and more energetic than we imagined.
So, this is a letter of thanks for all the help your site provided. -- Thank-you.-- I have sent a few pictures, feel free to do what ever you like with them. Any further help or suggestions would be greatly appreciated. -- Thankfully, The Sinnings in Canada -- September 6, 2006.
And then, my boyfriend came across your website, Thank Goodness..... because it seemed like just about everything we were doing was contradictory to what you were recommending. And since you had sucessfully raised over 2500 squirrels....well, we were going with the numbers... ...and it's also like you said, "Success speaks for itself"............ So we immediately changed Petey's formula, from kitten and puppy formula to the "scalded milk" with 250mg of Vitamin E per 8 oz milk 4x daily, along with some crumbled up pecans, just a scant few sunflower seeds (unsalted) We offer her this 2x a day, along with also offering some thinly diced strawberries, bananas (her favorite), diced apples, although she absolutely loves applesauce.......And now, she's growing like a weed. She seems to be really healthy and just loves attention. In fact, if anything, we may be giving her too much attention. You see, we also have 2 Yorkies, Bubba & Tippy, who, ever since Petey arrived --well, let's just say they've been just a little bit jealous. But then again, they know how much we care for Petey, And would never do anything to hurt her.
Anyway, we just want to thank you for all the information you have provided us and so many others as well. Without it, I know there would be a lot fewer baby squirrels making it to "maturity".
You know, It really is ridiculous what some of these people are allowed to say on their webbsites. The information they are giving others is for the most part wrong And hopefully someday, there will be a law prohibiting them from doing so.
Another cute little thing she does is while holding her in my cupped hands, I will rub her nose with mine, and she she just loves this, falling asleep almost immediately. It's so cute............
Well, I know I said at the beginning of this letter-email, that I was going to make this short, So much for that, huh? But there's just so much going on in her life. She's so sweet, that I can't help but to go on and on about her. Sorry........Anyway, I'll wrap this up for now. And once again, thanks so much for your help. Without it, I know we wouldn't have been able to successfully raise this wonderful baby. -- Sincerely -- Valerie, Troy, and "Petey Pie" -- September 5, 2006
You're absolutely right about there being so much bad info out there. The first site I got was one of those that recommended puppy formula and releasing at about 8 to 9 weeks old. I've raised puppies and too many alarms were going off in my head about some of their advice, so I kept digging and found you. What a Godsend!!! .
Bart got his last feeding a bit later than 10 tonight -- his belly still looked a little too poochy so I waited a bit. At least he is no longer getting the worrisomely distended belly like he got with the commercial formula. When I would see that in puppies (or adult dogs), I knew something serious was wrong.
You were spot on when you said some babies fall out of the nest because they're still latched on when mama takes off. I think that's exactly what happened with Bart. Since he's so young, he'll have to overwinter inside so I'll need to set up some things to accomodate him.
You might mention in the part of your (Nutball) recipe about the brewers yeast that not all kinds are created equal. The label should say what the yeast was grown on, like blackstrap molasses or sugar beets; some lower end brewer's yeasts are actually grown on wood chips and sawdust and are nutritionally inferior.
Just want to say thanks again for the work you've done and the valuable info you provide. -- Dryad in Missouri -- August 24, 2006.
After 2 days of no food before she was given to me, to 3 feedings of baby formula, 3 feedings of newborn puppy formula every 2 hrs (WITH DROPPER NO LESS), I finally found your site -- what a blessing. -- I know it's early but I am sure you will be able to add her to your list of successes. -- Grateful, Tina in Oregon -- August 18, 2006
I wish I had found your website sooner. Besides the twitching, she had appeared to me to be doing well, but yesterday, I was becoming concerned, because she didn't seem as interested in eating as she had before and she was becoming a little bloated and not having BMs. She also was getting very restless. When I introduced the milk formula today, at first, she was like, "Whoa, What is that!?" and then after a couple of little tastes, she latched on and sucked until it was all gone (3 cc's). She laid back, satisfied and relaxed! She curled up in a ball and went back to sleep. All the while she was eating, she was pooping, which was a very good sign, because I was afraid of her getting backed up.
I laid her back in her bed and did not see one twitch! I didn't expect to see changes that quickly! The other person I talked to also recommended feeding Cheerios when they first start to eat solid foods. After reading your info, I bought some pecans instead, for when that time comes. I know it's still a few weeks away, but I want to be prepared. Your nutrition info just makes so much more sense. I thank you again so very much!
They also recommended feeding every 3 hours, but I saw in your website that you say every 5 hrs. There is a lot of incorrect info out there. About the only thing that was the same was the info about the heating pad, which I had already figured out on my own.
I tried feeding Amelia at about 4 hours, thinking since she was used to every 3 that she might be hungry--well, she was not interested in eating! She let me know she was still full from her previous feeding of the good stuff. Before, when I fed her the KMR, she would act like she was starving until yesterday, when she started to bloat. I think the reason she doodled throughout her feeding of the scalded milk is because she had not done so for her previous 3 feedings. But now we are on the right track, thanks to you! She definitely seems more content!
I am looking forward to watching her grow and become a healthy member of the squirrel society. It's by the grace of God that this little critter has survived this long! Thank you for your website. It is VERY informative.You may add this to your guest book if you'd like, as well as any of my previous emails. Thanks so much for being available to answer my questions. -- Melodie -- USA -- August 6, 2006
I know you get tons of emails and you give each person all the information they need. I know that plenty of them realize it is too much trouble and there is no telling what happens to those babies. People have to be willing to give up 9 months of their life, be willing to spend money to get the Nutball ingredients, have an assortment of cages, etc & etc. I don't have to tell you!
But when I look at my healthy, tiny baby and feel relaxed because of all you have taught me, and continue to teach me, I had to tell you how very important it is that there is someone like you to teach us. Because of you, this is my fourth healthy baby.
Those wildlife people won't tell you anything and just say "you can't do it" and want to pick up the squirrels. But you are willing to give us a chance to learn and raise healthy squirrels to return to nature, where they belong.
Just wanted to tell you how much you mean to everyone like me, who truly appreciates you and what you do. -- Alisa -- July 20, 2006.
I also have a flying squirrel that is about 7 months old and I guess the Nutball is also good for her. A man cut down a tree that had a nest of flying squirrels and so far she is doing great. I just think that what you have done on the web page is great. I did print out all 50 pages.
Thank you so very much for your attention. I do love squirrels and I think you are the person that can guide people like me to make sure that they can have a happy and healthy life. Thank you.-- Juanita Dean -- July 19, 2006
I see what you mean about sores or scratches healing fast. All the swelling, in her tail, is almost, gone. The redness is gone also. The skin around the scab is healing very well. The way she looked when I got her, compared to 3 days on the Scalded Milk, should make a believer out of even the most skeptical of people. I don't believe she would have lasted much longer, if I hadn't gotten the milk into her. -- Alisa -- July 17, 2006
I can't thank you enough. You've been such an inspiration. -- Shannon in Indiana -- July 5, 2006
Chester grew to be an adult squirrel, we put him in a big cage outside after winter with a 5 gallon bucket with a plastic top with a hole cut in it sideways for his bed. One day he got out, I couldn’t find him. The next day I called him and he came out of the tree to me. I decided to let him out of the cage. Each time I would call Chester would come down and let me love on him. Approx. 3 weeks ago Chester no longer comes down. Maybe he is enjoying being free.
I’m so thankful for your web site with such helpful information. If it had not been for you, Chester would have never made it!! -- Melissa in Louisiana -- June 6, 2006
I was determined not to stop now -- after all, these babies were counting on me now. I even decided to consume any unused vitamins for my own better health. This last week I was able to refer a friend to your site as she needed assistance with a orphaned bunny.-- Thank you again for your guidance. -- Shari in Alabama -- (Miss Piggy, Rocky and Scrat) -- lseal@centurytel.net -- May 13, 2006
Another important thing. My heart may not be in it for the possums. If my heart is not in it than the love is not there. (It could be that I might fall in love with them, but I don't want to take the chance, for the animal's sake, as well as my own.). I have always loved squirrels. So I will be patient and wait, and stick to what I know I love. Just thought you would like to know. Again, thanks for the right advice. -- Alisa -- alisa9b@aol.com -- May 8, 2006
My son came across another rehabber near our area who said that squirrels could not live on cow's milk which we knew wasn't true b/c that's all she had for two months. She said she would have to change her formula to take her so I had ruled that out. My first batch of nutballs is drying in a sunny window, she really likes the ones Tobie sent and I wouldn't have had a clue about the calcium thing w/o your detailed info. I know that must have taken a lot of time to assimilate, not to mention the effort and knowledge that went into it. You are very generous to share and devote so much love to this- there's no telling how many little lives you've saved directly and indirectly as a result.
I am forever indebted to you both. No telling how many baby squirrels are being lost as a result of some bad info coming in ahead of the 'right stuff'. If I had found your site first, Miss Walnut's brothers and sisters would be turning somersaults with her. You've got invaluable info out there, and as far as I'm concerned, it's the Squirrel Bible.
Nature has a way of speaking to us if we just listen and respond with our hearts.
Well, thank you so very much for your expert opinion. It is deeply valued and gratefully appreciated. -- May God Bless, Cynthia -- cb24029@charter.net -- May 1, 2006
You are correct, Tobie is such a blessing and so are you. Thanks just doesn't seem adequate. Hope to be able to help with a few supplies in the near future. The animals are helpless without people like you all and mothering them is such a special task. May God Bless, Cynthia-- Take care, Cynthia -- cb24029@charter.net -- April 27, 2006
This little baby Squirrel means the world to me and has added so much to my life. My poor fellow was on the milk replacement for only 24 hours and his poor heart raced so hard I felt sure that it was not normal.......that is why I got back on the net to find another solution.....and there your page was. Your information not only saved my little fellow, but also another little fellow that a friend of mine in Pa. found. I told her once she switches to your instructions she will see such a difference in her Squirrel. I forwarded your web site to her. People mean well when they try to feed Squirrels the wrong thing...but, it is very tragic to lose an innocent animal because the info is not out there.
I only want to thank you for caring enough for Wildlife to include all of the valuable info you have on the net. The wildlife rehabbers around here go for that baby milk replacement formula....no way for me...I knew that stuff was full of sugar and I am so thankful I finally found your site. He will not be running loose in the house when he grows older..instead he will have a huge cage with a good safe tree limb in it...and will enjoy sunshine through a window....but, he will be cuddled. He deserves it..and so far, he really seems to know me....rubs all over me...smells my scent...yep, I'm the Mama :-)
Well, I have taken up enough of your time. This world needs more people like you...and like me. too....who realize that the animals were here first and are being wiped out in such a selfish way by man....very sad. --- Thanks again, best wishes, Linda -- RCantiques@aol.com -- April 27, 2006
I'm still in awe of these little wonders. How anyone can think that we all evolved from an amoeba is beyond me. God had his hand in these little miracles. No doubt in my mind. While I feed them I just marvel at every little part of them. Their delicate nimble little fingers, their fat tummys, their impressive little deltoids, biceps and forearms, their huge feet:). I haven't been this amazed at anything since the birth of my own daughters.
Baby sister opened her eyes this morning. They were cute while their eyes were closed. They are even more adorable with them open. They've been exploring their new cage and playing more with each other. I still have to keep an ear open for "smacking noises". They don't suck on each other as much, but now and then I catch one and have to confine the culprit to the gunny sack which is made from a soft cotton dish towel (not terry) and hung from the side of the cage but in a place where the others can snuggle up. And believe me, they do. They always find one another no matter where I place them and dog pile on top of the one in the sack.
You're a God send, Clarissa. Bless you for all that you are doing to help the Lord's creatures. -- Jim and Laura from Northeastern Wisconsin --April 24, 2006
Well Clarissa, we're happy to inform you & anyone who wants to hear this..........our little Squirz is a happy 4 year old fellow now by the grace of God & your critical initial help. Like we said, we have always had a number of pet cats in our household & so releasing Squirz into the trees near our house was out of the question. He would have made a very tasty morsel of food perhaps as in India, predators abound in many kinds, both human & animal. So we built a large pen on our terrace (rather like a zoo enclosure) with tree limbs etc. for him to run about & play. We were very reluctant to release him any place far away from us as our mutual love & bond was too strong to allow it. He is happily living with us for 4 years now & enjoys feeding time the most as he gets to play with us too. He is the envy of all our cats because he has his own house & struts his stuff at them from behind his safe wire-meshed pen.
We are really glad we came across you as you are perhaps the only one who advocates the scalded milk diet for squirrels, baby or adult. Surprising indeed how most others actually ban cow's milk, branding it as a sure-death formula. Just so you know, Squirz's a big fellow now but still enjoys his daily afternoon swig of fresh cow's milk which he insists on being hand-fed. His diet is stabilized now without any variation as we don't want to upset his tummy ever. He's happy eating an assorted menu of fresh & chunky apples, fresh & crisp okra, fresh baby corn, fresh green beans & the very occasional walnut pieces (they attract a lot of red ants though). One thing that we follow to your letter is freshness. Everything is as fresh as we can get them. In any case, Squirz knows what's fresh by now & sometimes does turn his back on a slightly rusty looking piece of apple or a limp looking piece of green bean. That's our little Squirz for you & we are sure that if he could, he too would thank you for giving him this happy life.
Thank you once again & may God bless you with everything that's nice for the great work that you're doing for our furred friends. -- Gratefully yours, Valsa & Jaideep -- jaideep-gc@eth.net -- April 23, 2006
My experience when Syd was sick was awful. When she was just short of five years old, she very quickly went from what appeared to be absolutely fine, to fine but hiccuping, then unsteady on her feet, then having major seizures/convulsions. She could barely walk. The poor girl would sit on my lap through it all, taking comfort from my company, and I could just tell that she was thinking, "please, please can't you help me."
Lo and behold, I quickly stumbled over your website. As I read through it, I was seeing, this calcium issue, THIS is Syd's problem! I saw that some of the things I was feeding Syd were not good for her, although other things were fine.
Your site made it clear that I had to act fast and decisively if I was going to get her better. And you told me just what I needed to do in a way that drove home, this is serious, don't try to second guess what I'm telling you, don't try to do just part of what I'm telling you, because your squirrel will pay the price.
I have to admit that I felt ashamed admitting that I had failed so miserably in Syd's care despite my best efforts but, thankfully, more desperate to help fix the problem. I reached out to you for help. You replied very quickly, and gave such gentle, encouraging advice, along with a new recipe, Banana Milk Shake, to try to get her back into good health. I felt better just reading your response. I thought, "Okay, Clarissa does not seem to think this is utterly hopeless. That alone makes me think that I can regain some control over this situation." I felt so much hope that I was literally pretty giddy.
So, that's our story, and luckily, it has a happy ending. It was a long, heart-wrenching road back to wellness.
My vets now have on file a copy of your website and the Banana Milk Shake recipe, so that when another person comes in with a little one in need of help, the vets will be better equipped to give informed advice. I also shared your information with someone else whose friend found a baby, so that they know what they're getting into and how to take proper care.
Now you know why I'm always so gushy in thanking you. I know that my persistence plays a role, but you gave me the tools I needed to actually help her, as well as restoring hope. Do not discount what a difference that made! Once again, I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart. You will never know how very distressed I was that Syd was in such trouble and how grateful I was to stumble over your website. You are an answered prayer. You saved my girl's life. Thank you so very much, from me and Syd. You really made this tale have a happy ending. -- God bless you, --Kim -- KimS910@msn.com -- April 8, 2006
I'm as nervous as a new mama about this. I get very emotional when I think about them being out on their own, but know it is the best and right thing for them. I am so proud they have made it this far, and I thank you from the bottom of my heart for all your help, and especially the "Squirrel Bible" as my husband calls it. You have been truly a Godsend, especially in the beginning when I knew nothing at all about what I was doing. Without your website and your advice, I'm sure these babies would not have made it. Thank you again for all you do for all the squirrels. -- Bonnie Garner -- parrothead@ripleycable.net -- April 1, 2006
My baby boy BUNKY was released summer of 2002 - 9 mos. old. (#3 that I raised over a 6 yr. period, all were pinkies). He ran up the tallest pine tree in Lumberton, Tx. (mom's house), was there about 2 days. Long and short of this story, he is still going to the back patio checking things out. He survived Hurricane Rita. I think he is a little guardian angel watching over my mom. She said he just sits at the back porch peering in. I said, "he wants to eat!"
Thanks for helping me out and posting your info. I have learned a lot from your site and my own experiences that I will continue to share my knowledge and help keep these babies alive. You have a special place in heaven. Thanks again, Tonya -- Cedar Park, Texas -- farceneaux@hotmail.com -- March 19, 2006
She went from a little fur ball to a strong and vibrant beauty and that's all because of you and your guidance. Going into this I had no idea on what squirrels needed to survive and although it was one of the saddest days of my life to let her go in the forest behind my farm......thinking of her out there jumping from tree to tree and maybe having babies of her own makes my heart rejoice. I am enclosing some pictures that you can feel free to add to your site if you'd like.-- Thank You for what you do! -- Dawn Miceli and Precious -- dawn@dawnanddrew.com -- March 5, 2006
After four days I had to give up. I was afraid I was going to lose her because she was in such a weakened state. I had made the nut ball squares a couple of days before and had been giving them some. They were not eating them at first so I followed your advice and made sure nothing else was in the cage. I went though their sleeping box and took out any walnuts they had stashed and at dinner time all they had were the nut ball squares first. As you had said, they started eating them. It only took about 4 days and I started to see improvement.
It has not been quite a month yet and I cannot believe the change that has taken place. My little one is 100% better. She is all over the place now. I'm going to guestimate that when I e-mailed you she had about 25% use of her back legs. Now, you would never know anything was ever wrong. Just as you also said her personality is wonderful again.
What I did not tell you in my first e-mail was that the other girl had been having seizures. I really wasn't sure what was happening to her because it would only happen if I had her out of her cage spending time with her. I would be holding her and she would go stiff as a board and fall over. After about a minute she would come around. I'm assuming that was a seizure. The bottom line is, that they are both a 100% better. They still would like to get their normal food first, but they don't. Its nut ball squares first and nothing else until they eat them.
As with all animals they try to figure out a way to get around this. They try hiding them to make me think they have already eaten them. They even go as far as peeing in the dish that I put them in. I just go clean out the dish and put new ones in. Now they know, and I think look forward to them.
I have been going over all that has taken place, and the problems to the best of my recollection have been going on for about 6 months. I'm thinking that the reason they held on for so long is because they were being fed good. I know that sounds dumb, but they always had good veggies, good fruits and good walnuts and pecans.
I cannot Thank You enough for all the years you have spent figuring this out. I have felt so guilty for not knowing and thinking I was doing the right thing. It really makes me wonder how many people out there have done the same thing.
Every rehabber and every Vet that deals with wildlife should have your information posted for all to see. I have it and like I said in my first e-mail, I will never be without nutball squares again. Of course my friends think I'm nuts, along with my husband but they know when it comes to squirrels of any kind, I will be there to do all I can. I pass your info on to anyone I know that has a squirrel or any other animal to take care of. Most people I know will not take on this responsibility and call me. The ones that do get your info. I WILL ALWAYS BE SO VERY GRATEFUL TO YOU FOR ALL THAT YOU HAVE DONE. YOU ARE A VERY SPECIAL PERSON.
My back yard is a magnet for Grey Squirrels and flyers at night. I will be putting squirrel boxes out in some of the trees this year in case we have a bad hurricane season again. This way they will have a safe place to live. I will not give up on the Banana Shake. My two girls did not like it but that does not mean the next squirrel won't. It tastes very good by the way. Thank You again for all that you do.
Please feel free to tell anyone who might not believe you to e-mail me. I will be more than happy to set them straight. The best to you always.
Debbie -- debbiefinch@cfl.rr.com -- February 6, 2006
A couple weeks later after SHAGGY died, TUBBO lost his ability to move his back legs. We thought he would die soon, but couldn't bear to put him down, so we took care of him as best we could, and although he hasn't gained his legs back, he's a happy squirrel.
After finding your page I feel so bad I didn't try looking before. If I had, maybe TUBBO could've been released and enjoyed a healthy life. We obviously can't do that now, so I'm trying to find out if there is anything we can do to keep him healthy and happy. I read some of your recommendations on healing squirrels, but TUBBO has been crippled for almost three months now, and I wonder if there is anything we can do to help him use his back legs again.
At first, he could still shake them a little, and would actually make some use of them from time to time. Now, he can't seem to use them at all. He can still climb a little (if it gets too cold at night he will actually leave his kennel and crawl into our bed to get warm!). He has become like a child to us, and we want to make sure his needs are well taken care of. Any help you could offer us will be highly appreciated.
Thanks for your work and for helping people like us help our little furry friends.
Esther & Chris Thompson, St. Augustine, FL -- January 31, 2006
We had rescued an injured squirrel in August 04, it was about two weeks old and had fallen about 25 feet out of a tree during a storm. We were originally just going to rehab her and turn her back into the wild. After she got a little older and her eyes started to open, we realized she was blind and has neurological damage to her whole right side, which meant of course that we couldn’t release her.
Well we ended up keeping her as a pet because we didn't want to have her put down as she is a happy squirrel, she just can't be released outdoors. But we were having difficulty trying to keep her diet on track and her health was failing. Her tail was not fully grown and then she started to have seizures and we thought it was due to her condition (with her head injury). That's when we came upon your site and started following your recommendation for her diet and the nut balls (which at first we thought was crazy) but it SAVED HER LIFE!!
We have had her on the diet now for 2 1/2 months and are giving her a nut ball everyday (which she just loves) and her tail is full and bushy and she has not had one seizure!! We hope to have her for a long time, because she is a sweet little pet and very affectionate.
Thanks to you we still have our little squirrel. If it was not for the nutballs and changing her diet, I do believe she would not be here. And you're right, we thought they would be too hard to make or that the squirrel wouldn't eat them, but how wrong were we. When I tell you that she almost rips it out of our hands, that's how much she loves it.
This was our first squirrel, so it was quite an eye opener of all the work, but well worth it!! So I wanted to thank you and tell you how you have helped out our little squirrelly!!
Thanks for all your hard work with our little friends!! --
Diane and Mary -- Franklin Square, N.Y. -- January 19, 2006
All the other rehabber's out this way in (New England) have been losing theirs. They all say the spring born babies were all bad and most died within a couple months. I told them about the scalded milk formula and the nut balls, some of them said they have the recipe but didn't say if they used them. One told me I should have released them at 12 weeks old. No way. I am very in tune to my babies. They will let me know when they want to go.
In October I brought in a huge bag of leaves for them to play in. They had a ball, and just the other day I brought in a big round bucket of snow for them to play in, and again they had a ball. I want these babies to know all the elements when they are released.I adore them all very much and I know when I release them they will have been given the absolute best care and health to start out in their new world, even their own mom couldn't have done a better job. We also have made 15 squirrel nesting boxes for when they get released. Thanks to you and your web site.
Also I work at a Bowling Center and More than Half my Senior league now feeds their Squirrels only fresh fruits and veggies and no more sunflower seeds or peanuts. Only pecans or the holiday nuts in the shell. You would be surprised as to how many of my seniors now love the squirrels because they don't bother the bird feaders any more and they love to watch them now that they know what to look for. It also gives them something to look forward to doing every day with feeding the squirrels. My babies have never
had a sunflower seed yet.
Sincerely Audrey, Massachusetts -- Dec. 11, 2005.
Let me explain. You remember how I told you Max would bite my husband. Well in spite of that, that big man loved those babies and they brought such joy to his life. We released the babies in May and from then until June 21 my husband spent every morning and every evening outside with them. He really loved them.
On the morning of June 21 my beautiful sweet husband died peacefully in his sleep. It turns out he had been suffering from Pancreatic Cancer and we never knew it. I do not want to sadden you with talking about all that right now. It is still very difficult for me.
We had sold our house before he died. My new house is not set up for squirrels that have been released. So we had to "catch" Max and Raymond