How to Help a Motionless Living Squirrel

Squirrels are a common sight in North America.

Squirrels are wild animals and do not make good pets, but there are times when a squirrel is injured or orphaned where you can help them recover and then release them back into their natural environment. If you happen upon a squirrel that is alive, but motionless, it is helpful to know what to do.

Things You'll Need

• Towel
• Crate
• Gloves
• Syringe
• Puppy Formula

Instructions

How to help a Motionless Living Squirrel

1. Put on your gloves before touching the squirrel. It is important not to touch the animal with your bare flesh, as you have no idea what is wrong with it. Swaddle it carefully in the towel to immobilize it and to warm it.

2. Examine each part of the animal carefully, checking for injuries, while keeping the rest of the animal covered up with the towel. Be prepared to be firm with your pressure as the squirrel may struggle or attempt to bite, especially if it is hurt.

3. Warm the squirrel by huddling it close inside the towel and expose its head. Offer the squirrel small drops of warmed water (not hot) or puppy formula. Rehydration is the most important step in helping an orphan or injured squirrel.

4. Offer fluids every 30 minutes and keep the animal warm and secure inside an animal crate. If injured, take the squirrel to a local veterinarian for treatment.

5. Release the squirrel once it has regained activity and alertness. Do not try and keep it. If it is an orphan, it will be necessary to raise it to the point where it can eat solids and is large enough and swift enough to escape predators, then release it. Squirrels are not trustworthy pets and can bite.

Tips & Warnings

• Use a large towel or blanket to swaddle the squirrel in.

• If bitten, you will need to see a doctor right away, as squirrels can carry rabies.

References

• Squirrels: Raising an Orphaned Squirrel
• Squirrels Info: Squirrels in Distress