From:
aclavern33@aol.com
Date: 2004-12-13 05:47:00 UTC
Subject: RE: [ferrethealth] ferret with string strangulation injury to leg
To: ferrethealth@smartgroups.com
Message-ID: <20003078.1102920017871.JavaMail.nobody@magnesium.smartgroups.com>
Thank you for your reply. I have been freaking out about this because I do not
know what to expect. I would guess this is treated like a burn. I am an
exparamedic but no real experience with animal injuries.
I am still using the DMSO every 12 hrs. The foot is now oozing and bleeding and
tissue is sloughing off. He lost two toenails today!!! I know ferrets can live without
toenails, but its pretty freaky to watch this. He is standing on his leg and trying to
walk. He will stand for very brief periods of time to potty. His appetite had
suddenly doubled!!! He is eating and drinking every waking moment. Plus I am
supplimenting him with chicken gravy. He is also also asking to play. The limb
below the area that was stangled is quite pink!!! Like a serious sunburn. He does
not appear to be in any distress and is enjoying all the extra attention. He is also
fighting me when I give the augmentin antibiotic.
We go to the vet in the morning for follow up. I will ask about debridement
instructions. I have been soaking and bathing him twice daily. Tonight I cleaned off
any nasty loose hanging skin and any fecal material or other icky looking stuff. He
seems to enjoy the warm water. I will also ask about oral meds for swelling as well
as pain.
I have been very meticulous on his hygeine and cage care. My vet also thinks he is
adrenal so we will start on meletonin as soon as the vet says he is stable to do so.
I need all the advice one can muster.
Toni