GliderCENTRAL

Horrible compound fracture... may need amputation!

Posted By: WholeheartMom

Horrible compound fracture... may need amputation! - 05/06/08 06:45 AM

This is soooo disturbing!

When I went to feed my little 9 week old joey tonight, I was horrified...... His left arm is fractured, bone sticking way out, and his little hand is severely red and swollen to three times the normal size. His thumb is also missing, just a raw bone where there used to be flesh.

He was fine the previous night when I fed and played with him, and I have no clue what happened. I have a Stealth wheel and all my cage toys are safe. I don't think his parents would have injured him, but I guess you never know.

Anyway, I put in a tearful call to Suz who calmed me down (thanks so much!) and I took little Ben into the emergency vet. They were not too helpful... just shook their head at me and said "We don't do exotics here". I pleaded with them to at least give him some pain medication and the lovely little vet tech replied, "We don't do that here". Huh????? I began to cry and finally they agreed to look at him and the vet ended up giving him an injection of Butorphanol (Stadol) for pain and Baytril for infection. I took him home and I am staying up with him tonight... My regular vet opens up at 7:30 am and I will have him there bright and early tomorrow.

It is so hard to see my little boy going through this! He is such a sweetheart, barely crabbing at all and just staring at me in such a loving way... almost as if he is trying to comfort me instead of me comforting him. I love him dearly and I want him to make it through this!!

I suppose they will amputate his arm tomorrow. I am concerned because the fracture is up high and I don't know how it will affect his patagium. I don't know how much of a quality life he can have with only three limbs, but hopefully he will adjust and make the best of it.

One good thing is his appetite is very good and he is at least trying to move around his cage, although he is stumbling a lot. I am trying to keep him still, but he wants to move! Also, he is showing no signs of self-mutilation yet.

Has anyone else dealt with amputation before? What can I expect and what can I do to help my little boy get through this?
Posted By: glidrz5

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputation! - 05/06/08 09:29 AM

OH hun, I'm so sorry you are both having to go through this. Thankfully tho your baby has you to comfort him. I haven't had a glider who's had a limb amputated, but I did have a little girl who came to me missing a hand. She got along just fine and never missed her foot. Your boy will do just fine. He is young to have surgery, but being young will help him adjust to the missing limb more easily. As far as cage setups, you will initially want to have a smaller cage with everything pretty much on ground leval. That way he won't have to climb as much. You will also want plenty of hammocks in case he does try to climb and would happen to fall. If you go to the Amputee Gliders thread in Special Needs you will get more details on setting things up.
Please keep us updated on your baby and how he is doing.
Posted By: sugarglidersuz

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputation! - 05/06/08 09:40 AM

I am so sorry you had such a hassle at the E-vet's shakehead Thankfully they finally relented and at least gave your little guy some pain meds and a dose of antibiotics. Please call me again today if you need me for anything. I'll have my cell phone with me all day; although, I'll be in and out of appointments, so leave a message if you get the machine hug2 hug2 hug2
Posted By: Anonymous

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/06/08 10:46 AM

O my goodness. How horrible for both of you. Your are in my thoughts and prayers. hug2 hug2
Posted By: Trigger

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/06/08 10:51 AM

Oh this is so sad. frown I am keeping you in my prayers and here are some hugs. hug2
Posted By: ValkyrieMome

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/06/08 11:43 AM

What a horrible shock.
I'll be thinking of you both all day - please let us know how he does today.
Posted By: GliderLove

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/06/08 12:04 PM

hug2 I can just imagine the devastation you felt when you seen the poor little guy! I will keep you both in my prayers, please keep us posted. hug2
Posted By: Srlb

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/06/08 12:06 PM

Oh My Goodness. So sorry you both are having to go through this.

It is times like these it is good to be prepared with a card in your wallet that lists all the glider knowledgable vets that will take calls from other vets. This way you can say I have a vet you can call to help you. Most will at that point.

So glad they were willing to do something. Will be watching this thread for an update.

I have known several members with three legged gliders. Although it will take him time to learn to live with his disability, I am sure it wont slow him down any. hug2
Posted By: sweetReaper

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/06/08 12:12 PM

I am so sorry you both have to go through this, I will be praying for you and thinking about you all day. I wish you both the best of luck. hug2
Posted By: suggiemom1980

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/06/08 12:35 PM

Any updates yet???
Posted By: BeckiT

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/06/08 01:40 PM

I'm so sorry you're going through this hug2 hoping for the very best this morning with him!
Posted By: Anonymous

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/06/08 01:52 PM

I am so sorry to hear this. How very sad. hug2 hug2 hug2


Jen
Posted By: LSardou

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/06/08 01:57 PM

hug2 Many hugs.....and prayers that your little one will be ok!
Posted By: Usha77

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/06/08 02:10 PM

hug2 hug2 hug2 and my prayers are going out to you and your little one!!
Posted By: pappy1264

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/06/08 02:11 PM

Poor baby, my prayers are with you both!
Posted By: Anonymous

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/06/08 02:20 PM

You are in my thoughts and prayers. hug2
Posted By: cinnamonstix

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/06/08 04:20 PM

Oh my goodness! Your baby will be ok, but keep us updated! Poor little guy!
Posted By: saturngirl

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/06/08 04:30 PM

Hugs hug2 and prayers going out to you and your little baby
Posted By: sugarlope

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/06/08 04:42 PM

My prayers are with you and your baby! hug2 We'll be waiting to hear how the vet visit went when you have a chance.
Posted By: Dancing

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/06/08 05:02 PM

I have two tri-pods that live here with me. One of them, Toffee had his front arm amputated at the shoulder and Camelot who came oop missing half his back leg.

Both gliders are energetic, playful and doing just great. There have been, over the years, many many tri-pods and most if not all live wonderful lives.

I'm sorry your little one is going through this as well as you. I know how much it hurts us to see them hurt like this.
Posted By: BCChins

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/06/08 05:31 PM

Thinking of you and your little one. Please feel free to ask any questions you have. Everyone is here to help.
Posted By: WholeheartMom

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/06/08 07:53 PM

Whew....

I am exhausted mentally, physically and spiritually, but when I came to my thread, my heart was so uplifted by all the good thoughts and prayers that were sent my way! I am truly moved to tears.

This is how my day went today:

Drive 30 mins to suggie vet #1: They refused to see my little boy. Why? Because the vet has surgery and patients scheduled all day. I plead with them, explaining that this is an emergency, and can't they adjust their schedule to work him in? NO, they can't. Go see another vet, they tell me. I leave with tears in my eyes and a suffering glider in my pouch.

Drive another 30 mins to suggie vet #2: Well, she is also busy but if I leave my suggie there, she will try to take a look at him in between her surgeries and patients. Well, gee, all right....but haven't these people ever heard of the word "emergency" before? I guess not, so I leave my baby and pray that the vet checks him out soon. One hour later, the phone rings... the vet informs me that the case is too complicated for her to handle and that I will have to travel out of town to a specialist. I drive another 30 mins to pick my baby boy up, wiping away tears the whole way.

Drive another one and a half hours to specialist suggie vet #3: He is wonderful! This time I am shedding tears of relief, for I have finally found someone who can help! Very knowledgeable and confident and he agrees with me that the arm needs amputating. He tells me that he will be performing the surgery within the hour and he will need to keep Ben overnight to watch him. I can drive back tomorrow afternoon to pick him up. He calls me up twice with updates, and he is happy to report that all is going well so far.

Throughout all this, I have learned a hard, hard lesson, and I hope EVERYONE also learns from my experience. Don't assume that your emergency 24 hour vet will treat your glider.... you may be sadly mistaken. Don't assume that your "glider vet" will see your suggie in case of an emergency... you may also be sadly surprised. I HIGHLY recommend that everyone discuss this with their suggie vets and emergency clinics. Better get it settled now instead of when the emergency really happens.

In the midst of all the morning chaos, I snapped a few pictures of his arm that I may post later. They sure aren't pretty, but I am hoping they can be used for educational purposes at some point in time.

I will keep everyone updated and thanks for so much for all the support! It truly is heartfelt and genuine and I appreciate it more than you will ever know!!!!
Posted By: Anonymous

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/06/08 07:58 PM

I am trully so very sorry it has taken so long for your baby to get the help it needed. I can not even imagin what you have been thru waiting like that knowing your baby is in trouble. Sending you lots of love and hugs.
Posted By: Usha77

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/06/08 07:59 PM

hug2 I am so sorry you both had to go through all that! I'm so glad you found a vet who could help. Continued prayers from me! hug2
Posted By: Anonymous

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/06/08 08:06 PM

OMG! I am so sorry you are having to go through all of this! Please keep us updated on your little guy, Ben. hug2

I hope all will be good and well. I know it will take some time adjusting but in the end it sounds like it will be alright! Lots of prayers sent to you and your little one!
Posted By: BCChins

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/06/08 08:12 PM

I am glad your baby is getting the help he needs. I can not imagine someone being too busy to see an injured animal it is so sad they just turn them away. I just keep telling myself maybe it was for a reason and that you now have him in what seems to be wonderful hands. God Luck Ben and hugs to you Momma. Get some rest as he will need you fresh and ready to hold him lots when he gets home.
Thank you for the update.
hug2
Posted By: WholeheartMom

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/06/08 08:13 PM

You all are sooo great!!! I can't imagine where me and my little boy would be without all the wonderful people here at Glider Central!

My mind is swimming with questions right now, and I guess I will have to just take it one day at a time. One of my most pressing concerns is that he won't be accepted back by his mother and father again. I am having him neutered (the vet agreed he could tolerate the neutering and amputation together) so that he can stay with his parents forever. However, will they reject him now because of his deformity?

I know he will have to be separated from them for quite a while as well. I just worry that he will end up being a solitary glider and I don't want that for him.

Any experience with these issues? Do gliders reject their own once they have have a major deformity or issue going on?
Posted By: WholeheartMom

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/06/08 08:41 PM

Here are some pictures of his injury. The swelling had subsided quite a bit... probably due to the Baytril injection.

Warning: Photos are a bit graphic.

Great.... photos won't load! I will try again....

Attached picture DSC05588.JPG
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Description: He is such a handsome boy!
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Posted By: WholeheartMom

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/06/08 08:48 PM

Trying again to add photos.... Looks like they took, but they are quite small. Anyway, you can see the bone protruding from the skin... so painful looking!

Attached picture DSC05587 (Small).JPG
Attached picture DSC05588 (Small).JPG

Description: He is such a handsome boy!
Attached picture DSC05390 (Small).JPG
Posted By: Anonymous

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/06/08 08:50 PM

wow... sorry you guys have to go through all of that.... hug2
you should see if they(gc) can add that vet to its data base if not already there... where in fl are you...
Posted By: Usha77

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/06/08 08:59 PM

Oh my goodness! shock The poor baby! That must have been so painful for him!! He sure is a cutie, too! mlove
Posted By: Srlb

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/06/08 09:27 PM

Oh My...what a mess you had to go through. But you stuck in there and did your best and look what happened. KUDOS to you!! clap

It is folks such as yourself that would make my heart be perfectly content to send one of my babies to live with you!!

Please do keep us posted. How big of a cage do you have? I am assuming that this happened with him jumping from one side to the next and landing the wrong way or something.

As for his parents rejecting him, I seriously doubt it. I had one of my older gliders away from her family for several months and when she came back they went right back in together and couldnt have been happier. Just make sure you keep the cages side by side, and swap out their blankies quite a bit to keep the scent of them on each other. I dont think they will disown him cause he is a tripod, but do wait until he is completely healed before putting him back in with them.

Prayers going out that a fast smooth recovery is in the works. thumb
Posted By: ValkyrieMome

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/06/08 10:10 PM

Wow-

I'm so so sorry you had to go through all this with a darling boy in such pain.

Thank you so much for posting the lessons you learned throughout this ordeal - I'm going to discuss emergency care with my vet right now. I don't want to ever need it, but I'm not going to wait and see if I do.
Posted By: USMom

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/06/08 11:37 PM

That poor, poor baby!!! Those pictures hurt me. I am so glad you got him the help he needed. (((((HUGS))))

Posted By: Feather

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/06/08 11:45 PM

Oh! Poor Baby. I am glad that you finally found a knowledgeable kind vet who was able to help you.

Your little guy will adapt to only having three legs. It is amazing how resiliant some animals can be.

I use the veterinary college as my primary for my exotics and while in the waiting room you see a constant parade of three legged dogs and cats (from cancer) that have adapted very well to being three legged.

I hope everything continues to go well for you now that he has surgery.

Will say a prayer for your little man.
Posted By: Anonymous

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/07/08 12:21 AM

Oh!!! What a terrible injury!! I'm glad you guys got through it OK. Thoughts and prayers to you and your suggie baby.
Posted By: sugarlope

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/07/08 01:27 AM

I'm so glad you finally found a wonderful vet. What an amazing glider mommy you are for continuing to push to get him the care he needed!!! hug2 Hugs to both of you! hug2
Posted By: Anonymous

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/07/08 01:42 AM

So sad to hear about your ordeal but your suggie specialist number 3 sounds amazing and kudos to you for continuing to search until you found him......our hearts and prayers are with you hug2
Posted By: Trigger

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/07/08 01:51 AM

Thank goodness you finally found the right vet. Bless your heart and that sweet little baby.
Posted By: Jackie_Chans_Mom

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/07/08 02:27 AM

Shawna has been keeping me updated while I was on the road today. Just had a leg amputation on a joey myself. I know Shawna shared my number with you. Please feel free to call any time.
Posted By: scraptilldawn

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/07/08 03:15 AM

OMG how terrible. Things are looking up though clap Lots of suggie love to you and your beautiful little boy. mlove
Posted By: Anonymous

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/07/08 03:59 AM

Oh my goodness! How awful for this little guy to have suffered and for you to go through so much with the first two vets! I am so glad you persisted and kept finding another vet who could help ease the life of this little one! Bless your heart! Your glider already looks like he is such a sweetheart! Give him lots of chin rubs and kisses for us.


Jen
Posted By: uraqt33

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/07/08 04:26 AM

Poor little guy!!! He's so cute!!!! Sorry you both are going through this...He's very lucky to have such a loving and caring owner!!!! hug2
Posted By: WholeheartMom

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/07/08 08:47 AM

Originally Posted By: Srlb
Oh My...what a mess you had to go through. But you stuck in there and did your best and look what happened. KUDOS to you!! clap

It is folks such as yourself that would make my heart be perfectly content to send one of my babies to live with you!!

Please do keep us posted. How big of a cage do you have? I am assuming that this happened with him jumping from one side to the next and landing the wrong way or something.


Thank you so much for your kind words! I have been beating myself silly thinking that I had done something wrong and that I was to blame for his inquiry. He lives in a 6 ft tall cage with his mother, father, and Auntie (a breeding trio). I honestly don't know how he did this... one vet suggested that the parents/aunt may have attacked him, but I seriously doubt it. They are a seasoned breeding trio who have had several happy, healthy litters without a hitch and they are all stellar parents.

I was going to offer him for sale but absolutely not anymore! He is staying right here with me and he is going to be my special little baby from now on!
Posted By: WholeheartMom

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/07/08 08:50 AM

Hi Val!

You are sooo sweet... to be going through the same thing and yet thinking so much of others at the same time! You truly are a gem. I will definitely be calling you perhaps tomorrow after I pick him up and I know a little bit more about his special needs and condition.
Posted By: sugarglidersuz

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/07/08 10:07 AM

I'm so sorry you continued to have an ordeal getting treatment for him cry That is so very sad and heartbreaking. I'm very thankful that the specialist turned out to be so wonderful though! At least you know he is in the best possible hands now and I'm sure that's a huge relief to you cloud9
Originally Posted By: WholeheartMom
You all are sooo great!!! I can't imagine where me and my little boy would be without all the wonderful people here at Glider Central!

My mind is swimming with questions right now, and I guess I will have to just take it one day at a time. One of my most pressing concerns is that he won't be accepted back by his mother and father again. I am having him neutered (the vet agreed he could tolerate the neutering and amputation together) so that he can stay with his parents forever. However, will they reject him now because of his deformity?

I know he will have to be separated from them for quite a while as well. I just worry that he will end up being a solitary glider and I don't want that for him.

Any experience with these issues? Do gliders reject their own once they have have a major deformity or issue going on?
You will have no problem putting him back in with his family once he is completely healed heart As we discussed on the phone the other night, you can give him supervised "visitation" with his family each evening for a while and that will help with the reintroductions later. You will know he is completely healed when the fur over the surgical site starts to grow back in and is covered with peach fuzz. As Peggy/Srlb suggested, in the meantime, place his hospital cage right next to the parents' cage and swap blankies/pouches/toys back and forth between cages.

Please continue to keep us updated and call me if you need me for anything else hug2 hug2 hug2
Posted By: jannee66

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/07/08 11:10 AM

hug2 hug2
Posted By: Jackie_Chans_Mom

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/07/08 12:15 PM

Originally Posted By: WholeheartMom
One of my most pressing concerns is that he won't be accepted back by his mother and father again. I am having him neutered (the vet agreed he could tolerate the neutering and amputation together) so that he can stay with his parents forever. However, will they reject him now because of his deformity?

I know he will have to be separated from them for quite a while as well. I just worry that he will end up being a solitary glider and I don't want that for him.

Any experience with these issues? Do gliders reject their own once they have have a major deformity or issue going on?


UMMMM.... NO. Jackie Chan, Spirit, Nugget and Cheddar all have physical issues and ALL have wonderful, loving cage mates.

Like I said, don't hesitate to call me if you wanna talk. I know you must have a lot of concerns and questions. I am here for ya if you need me. Plus, it sometimes helps just to talk to someone who is going through the same thing. Bruce Lee's surgery/amputation was yesterday, and he is only 5 weeks OOP. So, I am feeling every bit of what you are feeling. hug2
Posted By: Anonymous

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/07/08 04:01 PM

Aww im so sry for ur joey. So valent to let u take a picture of him in that sate and not have a very [censored] face.
Posted By: WholeheartMom

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/07/08 04:45 PM

[size:20pt]BEN IS HOME!!![/color]

I just got back from picking him up. He is very unsure of things right now and seems to want to lay on his side all the time. He doesn't yet understand how to get up and move around on only three limbs and I am sure he is feeling quite a bit of pain at the moment. He seems to be doing great and I have him in his hospital cage next to his parents. He only has a wide collar on, not an e-collar with a cone, and he seems to be leaving his stitches alone.


I love this little guy so much! He has been through a lot, yet still has the sweetest disposition ever. He is a conquerer, and I know he will emerge victorious over this obstacle and have a wonderful life. What a privilege to be able to share it with him! My beautiful little boy.... cloud9




Description: Picture of his incision
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Description: His new physique!
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Description: Laying on his side
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Description: His collar: He's still handsome!
Attached picture DSC05604 (Small).JPG
Posted By: Usha77

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/07/08 04:56 PM

Awww...what a brave and beautiful boy!! mlove Thank you for sharing the pics and keeping us updated! hug2 for you!
Posted By: Anonymous

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/07/08 05:00 PM

hug2 sending more hugs still have you both in my thoughts and prayers.
Posted By: LSardou

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/07/08 05:28 PM

hug2 There isn't enough space on here for all the hugs that I want to send to you and Ben! He sure is one sweet little fella, and by the look in his eyes, he knows that he is LUCKY! Considering everything he has had to endure in his short little life so far, he looks remarkable! Many prayers and blessings being sent your way.
Posted By: Anonymous

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/07/08 06:24 PM

I'm so glad to hear that Ben is doing so well. He is lucky to have you for a MOM! smile
Posted By: tbull

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/07/08 07:49 PM

dance he's home and he looks GREAT!! hug2 heart for both of you.
Posted By: BCChins

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/07/08 08:16 PM

Ben looks great and glad to hear he is doing good.
Posted By: USMom

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/07/08 09:19 PM

You know, he looks really good, eye's are bright, ears are perky, I didn't pay attention to the nose, but he looks good. I guess I didn't realize this was his front leg. He may take a little time to figure out how to move around without it. Give him an extra kiss for me!
Posted By: pappy1264

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/07/08 09:27 PM

Awww, bless his little heart! He does look great!! He will figure it all out in no time and be getting around just fine. Animals are amazing (they put us to shame, esp. in this dept! My rottie was an amputee. They just do what they have to do.) Many prayers going out for this little one and you!
Posted By: sugarglidersuz

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/07/08 09:43 PM

dance clap dance I'm so glad to read (and see) that Ben's surgery went so well and that's he's recuperating well smile That's such wonderful news! He's been in my heart and prayers since you called the other evening hug2 hug2 hug2
Posted By: Feather

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/07/08 11:51 PM

Oh he has such a precious little face in that third picture. He looks great with his little ears up and bright eyed. I am sure the worst is over and that he will heal and adjust to being a challenged glider.

Best Wishes,
Posted By: Suggiegramma

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/08/08 12:14 AM

What a sweetheart! He's in our thoughts and prayers!
Posted By: sugarlope

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/08/08 12:26 AM

So happy that the surgery went well! Hope he continues to heal quickly! hug2
Posted By: MatchMakerMagic

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/08/08 12:28 AM

Im so very happy for you both!!! Looks like things went well!

What part of FL are you in if you dont mind me asking? Is this vet in the vet database? I'd be interested in their info! Could you PM it to me?
Posted By: BeckiT

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/08/08 12:43 AM

what a cutie! sending him get well soon wishes and huge hug2 s to you!
Posted By: Srlb

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/08/08 02:56 AM

He's gonna heal just fine....with all the love he is getting, how could he not?

Wonderful job with him. clap

What a special little glider. heart
Posted By: Anonymous

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/08/08 03:03 AM


I just can't get over how similar it is to Peanut's leg, except I seen it happen. The bone was the same, foot the same, even the toes.
My prayers will be with you and your little one. hug2
Posted By: jannee66

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/08/08 03:06 AM

hug2 hug2
Posted By: WholeheartMom

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/08/08 06:22 AM

Once again, thank you all so much for your support! Special thank you to Suz and Val for their willingness to talk me through this little nightmare and help me to see light at the end of the tunnel. smile

Update: I have some good news and some bad news. I suppose the good news should come first: Ben is doing excellent! He is active, happy, eating like a little piggie, moving around like he doesn't have a care in the world. He does fall over every now and then and loses his balance a lot, but he is undaunted in his courage and just gets right back up!

Now for the bad news: It is so hard for me to type this, and it seems so surreal, like a bad nightmare, but it is not. I went to feed Ben's parents tonight and couldn't find his mother (Elsa) in the pouch. Went to look in their little ball pit and there she was... but something was horribly wrong. She was very frightened and when I took her out, I began to weep. Her right arm is badly injured. No compound fracture, but possibly broken and very swollen and red with a couple of bite wounds. Please see the pictures I posted for more of an idea.

I am unsure what to make of this. I do not know what the future will hold for my precious breeding trio. I am now thinking that my male (Max), who has been the epitome of sainthood for the past two years, has suddenly snapped and become aggressive.

Or could it be that the other female, Mindy, is the aggessor? Max, Mindy, and Elsa have been perfectly content and totally happy for the past two years and I can't imagine what has occured to change all that.

Anyway, Elsa will be going to the vet in the morning. I put a collar on her and gave her a dose of Ben's Metacam and Baytril just to get her through the night. I will deal with tomorrow when it comes.

Thank you all again... I couldn't be strong without your continued support hug2








Description: Elsa's injured arm
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Description: Another view
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Description: Last one
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Posted By: Judie

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/08/08 07:03 AM

Gracious what a Nightmare. Sooo sorry as to what is happening to the stable family unit.

I would think if the trio was having difficulties with the living arrangements you would hear them fighting from time to time.

The little boy will adjust to his handicap in time.

As to the little mother... have you checked out their sleeping pouch? Is there anything inside the cage that she may have gotten tangled in? Gliders if caught on something will attempt or even chew their foot/hand off to escape what is restricting their movement to freedom.

Sending Get Well Wishes for your little family of gliders. hug2



Posted By: WholeheartMom

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/08/08 07:21 AM

Thanks Judie!

You know, my gliders have their own bedroom which is down the hall from me, and although I hear occasional barking, I never hear any downright fighting.

As for the sleeping pouch, yes I checked it and I saw no stray threads. My gliders have had the same toys for quite a while, I just rotate them around a little bit. I don't see how any of the toys could have caused this, but Suz suggested that I take all the toys with me to the Vets and let them have a look at them.

I can see some small bite wounds on Elsa's hand, but I am not sure if they are self-inflicted or a result of an attack. This puzzle is quite hard to put together! Their toenails are kept trimmed by the Stealth wheel trim track, so I don't think they got their nail caught in anything.

Dang, I wish Gliders could talk! upset
Posted By: sugarglidersuz

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/08/08 08:27 AM

hug2 I felt so horrible for you when you called last evening cry Please know that you will continue to be in my thoughts and prayers as you go through this terrible ordeal. You are on the right track with trying to solve the mystery. We discussed many things last evening and hopefully one of them will pan out so you can get to the bottom of this. Know that I am here for you hug2 hug2 hug2
Posted By: BCChins

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/08/08 10:46 AM

Oh my I am happy for Ben but so sorry for you and his Mom. I hope she does not need surgery too. We will keep everyone in our thoughts.
Great Big hugs to you all.

Posted By: Jackie_Chans_Mom

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/08/08 10:48 AM

I, too, felt my heart break at this news. hug2
I wish I could just run over there and give you a hug and some support. You and Elsa are in my prayers today. I am anxious to hear how her vet visit goes.

You are doing great so far. I wish these mysteries were easily solved. But, no matter, you will soon have Elsa and Ben both healed up and causing you to wonder in many different ways.
hug2
Posted By: BeckiT

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/08/08 11:38 AM

I'm so sorry to hear that Elsa's hurt too frown Hope she's feeling better soon hug2
Posted By: Srlb

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/08/08 12:33 PM

Quote:
Went to look in their little ball pit and there she was


Could they possibly be getting hurt in the ball pit??

I remember not long ago Mimijo found her glider *stuck* in the ball pit and warned everyone.

So sorry you are going through this, but I agree with Judie, if the group has been fighting you are sure to hear it or even see it yourself at one point.

I am thinking it is something in the cage itself that may be doing this...
Posted By: Usha77

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/08/08 01:37 PM

Oh no! hug2 hug2 So sorry to hear about Elsa! That arm looks sore! I'm glad Ben is doing so well.

Continued hug2 hug2 and prayers for you and Ben and now Elsa and the rest of the family, too!
Posted By: WholeheartMom

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/08/08 01:49 PM

Well,

I just got back from the vet... Good news is that the long bones seems to be intact, but we can't be sure about the hand bones. I chose to forego an x-ray since it probably wouldn't change the course of treatment.

The vet is positive this is a bite injury. There are several small bite marks and one larger one up higher. The arm is quite infected and swollen, but once the infection is treated she should be fine.

She is on Baytril, Metacam, and Silver sulfadizine ointment. They had to put her in a e-collar and she is not tolerating it well at all... she pulls it off every time no matter how tight we put it. My challenge is trying to get her to stop grooming her foot, wear her collar and allow the ointment to stay in place.

Thanks so much for your prayers and thoughts... they are definitely making an impact!
Posted By: WholeheartMom

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/08/08 01:50 PM

Peggy,

Thanks for the info about the ball pit. I may remove it just in case... Never hurts to be proactive at this point!

Posted By: Karin

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/08/08 02:10 PM

You are doing an amazing job with these little ones heart . I am so sorry about Elsa! This whole situation must be baffling and so stressful. Many good thoughts, and lots of prayers for all of you!

Karin
Posted By: KimeyDiann

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/08/08 02:15 PM

OH wow, I just read through this whole post and I'm trying to hold back the tears after reading about all this and seeing those oh so heartbreaking pictures. cry
I hope the best for you and your babies. I am in awe of your courage. Your babies have a great mommy!
hug2 ,
Kim
Posted By: Anonymous

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/08/08 03:02 PM

Ohh, this is very heartbreaking. Many hugs and prayers are sent your way. You, Ben, and Elsa are in my thoughts.


Jen
Posted By: WholeheartMom

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/09/08 02:33 PM

Quick update:

Ben is doing great! He is the most amazing glider... so spirited and determined in spite of his obvious handicap. He has also developed this cute little grumbling sound to let me know he is not happy when I give him his meds! Otherwise, he doesn't even crab at all and is healing so very nicely.

Elsa is not responding like I was hoping. She has had four doses of Baytril and three of Metacam and her arm is still very red and quite swollen.

I am wondering if I should ask to have her antibiotic switched, or should I give it some more time- any ideas?

Also, I am having extreme difficulty keeping an e-collar on her. She is my most laid back and docile glider, very gentle and easy-going, but she refuses to keep that collar on and she is quite adept at wiggling out of it no matter how tight I make it. That means she licks the ointment (silver sulfadizine) off her arm and I am not sure what that is going to do to her.

For now, I am still allowing Max and Mindy to share a cage while Ben and Elsa have their own separate hospital cages. So far, neither Max nor Mindy have been injured by the other, which is a good thing but I would very much like my trio to be reunited and happy again. I will just have to wait and see how things turn out.


Posted By: Usha77

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/09/08 02:35 PM

hug2 hug2
Posted By: minkasmom

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/09/08 03:03 PM

My heart is aching SO BADLY for the ordeals you're going through! Have an extra hug2 from me and my gang.

I figured out a "little trick" on keeping the shot glass e-collars in place when you have a wiggle worm like Elsa: If you take an extra piece of duct tape (masking tape, medical tape, whatever you're using) and put it on the BACK of the e-collar at the TOP, that doesn't allow the overlap to slip & won't allow it to loosen at all! She won't know it's there because (thankfully) they don't have eyes on the TOP of their head but it'll keep things a LOT more stable.

The BEST part is that you won't have to tape the e-collar to her body either...so no fur gets pulled out when you have to "change it out".

Can you tell I've been there just a little TOO OFTEN with having to use e-collars? shakehead It's sad but true...I can almost make one being half-asleep.
Posted By: Anonymous

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/09/08 05:58 PM

Wow this thread is heartbreaking, yet uplifting at the same time!

I'm so glad Ben is recovering and adjusting! Many thoughts hugs to you and your suggies hug2
Posted By: Jackie_Chans_Mom

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/10/08 01:04 AM

You are still doing an amazing job with your babies!
You know you can call me any time. hug2
Posted By: Suggiegramma

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/10/08 01:14 AM

How is Elsa doing?
Posted By: suggiemom1980

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/10/08 01:23 AM

Originally Posted By: WholeheartMom
Quick update:



Also, I am having extreme difficulty keeping an e-collar on her. She is my most laid back and docile glider, very gentle and easy-going, but she refuses to keep that collar on and she is quite adept at wiggling out of it no matter how tight I make it. That means she licks the ointment (silver sulfadizine) off her arm and I am not sure what that is going to do to her.





If you can get someone to help you, gently pull her head forward from her shoulders before you put the e-collar on. That makes it fit a bit better. Hopefully, someone can describe it better?
Posted By: Karin

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/10/08 03:29 AM

You are amazing to be able to keep your spirits so uplifted through all of this! Hoping and praying for these two that things get better, and quickly. YOU deserve, a great big group hug2 .

Karin
Posted By: Anonymous

Re: Horrible compound fracture... may need amputat - 05/10/08 03:39 AM

You don't know me, but after reading your story, I just want to say what an incredible suggie mama you are and you are in my thoughts and prayers.. hug2
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