Hurricane Katrina and a tough lesson

[Emily]

We were getting some of the winds from the outer bands and had some high winds yesterday. No big deal, not bad, at about 6:30pm a squirrel's nest fell from the tree onto my hubby's car. Hubby happened to be outside when it happened (watching the storm) and said squirrel and all fell, and then the squirrel ran back up the tree. I came out to check the nest and squirrels were just going nuts screeching and all. Not seeing anything I went back inside. At about 9:00pm upon letting dogs outside to potty, one brought in a tiny baby squirrel. Still alive me and my 7yr old grandson went into action to try and save it. It was only a few days old. Eyes still closed, skin no fur, about 3 inches long. All I know is birds, so I got a heating pad, put a towel over it, and got a clear rubbermaid tub filled it till cushy with shreaded paper, paper towel on top, and lid cracked for air. My grandson never left my side as we tried to save the baby, warming him up he was breathing pretty good, I had bird formula and a seringe and gave him a couple drops in the side of his mouth. He was doing great for a couple hours then when my grandson went to bed the litle one past away. Today we had our first funeral and my grandson was so depressed and upset. So we explained the circle of life, and how we try to take care of the birds and animals and do our best and let god take care of all the rest. He did get over it today, but some days give us tough life lessons for children and today was one of them. Just thought I'd share this with you all.

Emily

[felisdomesticus]

But what a wonderful thing to teach your grandson about caring for animals and trying to help those who are hurt. We need more people instilling those lessons in children.

[The Outlaw]

Emily:

I'm sorry about the baby squirrel. Its very hard to raise them or baby rabbits. I know, I've tried often enough. I agree, however, that its important to show our kids that every life, no matter how insignificant, is worth trying to save.

With the hurricane season beating down on us, it might be a good idea to check out this site. Seems to have lots of good information for rehabbing baby squirrels at least until you can get them to a licensed rehabber.

http://www.squirrels.org/raising.html

[Tiki]

Emily, That was really sweet that you at least tried to save him. A lot of people would have just looked the other way. I guess there will be a lot of homeless Quakers too from Katrina, she hit the area they seem to live in. Mother Nature can be rough!

[MaryG1959]

Hi Emily---

It is one of those tough lessons of childhood----and not so hot for us adults either.

Congrats on trying......I'm glad you made it through Katrina's nastiness!

Take care,

Mary