Rascal’s splinting was not successful. In fact things could not be much worse.

When the splint was removed, her right leg went to the exact same position as it was before, and she had the same difficulty. In addition to no improvement, she lost over 100 g, while Popcorn had gained 500 g. So in addition to no improvement with the splinting, her distress and discomfort caused her to lose weight.

The vet tried some smaller splints just to hold the leg in, so it would not drag behind her and she could not tuck it underneath her. No matter what size splint was applied, she would not eat, and was distressed. She did not want to be bound at all.

So far all treatment has been unsuccessful. The initial watching for a few days after hatching to see if she would improve on her own failed. The short brace that she used for one week failed. This more aggressive splinting of both legs with an attempt to bring the leg in failed, and caused her stress and weight loss. An additional splint attempted today failed.

X-rays were taken, and these were e-mailed to an avian surgical specialist, in Oakley. This is to see if there would be a surgery, such as bringing over a tendon or ligament and screwing it to a different location, would be helpful. My status is that I am awaiting word from him to see if there is a surgical option.

If it is an option, we would consider it. If it is not an option the choices are to allow her to try to adjust and walk with a failing leg. (The kind and knowledgeable rancher said that this could happen.) I would get the opinion from the doctor in Oakley if this was a possibility, or futile.

A personal comment: To people who are wondering why I would do this to Rascal, please understand I am trying to help this bird. Of course my stomach was in a knot when I watched her struggling, and I feel terrible that my attempts to help her have not been successful so far. Dissenting opinions about all this, (presented in a civil manner), are understandable. 

I think MAK left a few minutes too early!! There they are!!

Oh dear! Gremlins seem to be at work on facebook. Over a week ago, I posted an entry explaining that the eggs didn't hatch and PPO took it upon herself to abandon them. We took the eggs away and they were infertile. Since then, both owls have been back every evening to the nest and visiting. Pappa seems very keen on trying ago; PPO less certain.
Fingers crossed for a second try!   

http://www.rollinwild.com/clips.php

LOL, well done!! Thanks

Look how big nameless is getting! 33 days

  36 days old


 

November 6, 2013
Day 25, day 4 of splint
Rascal is comfortable in the new box

I thought she was distressed from being immobilize, but I think partially she may have been uncomfortable. The original support using towels around her legs was not very good, and the puppy harness did not work out well.

I made a hammock -like sling for her to rest her entire body on, with a hole so her legs would go through. This was with soft foam, and covered with a towel to make it more breathable. The back part is covered with a disposable pad. I also put a side opening so that I can observe her legs and check them for pressure and swelling on the side.

Rascal immediately relaxed and seemed to enjoy it. Also Popcorn was able to come up and get close to her, and start grooming her. I did put a box next to Rascal with a towel on it if Popcorn wanted to snuggle, but Popcorn got too nervous on the platform so that didn’t work out.

I gave Rascal three tube feedings yesterday, and one tube feeding this morning, but I think she’s going to start eating now. I am feeling better about this now, since she’s not in distress and has a place to rest her head. I attached some pictures of the box being constructed.







  This looks like the best set-up so far! Rascal seems comfortable!  Still!!!!

http://www.rochestersubway.com/topics/2013/11/midtown-plaza-baby-steps-and-incremental-urbanism/

http://www.berry.edu/eaglecam/

The female has bad feet like Lucy!  The female currently exhibits signs of trauma to her feet with missing talons on her right foot but sporting a more severe injury to her left foot. She is able to hunt and fly successfully with her mate as well as prepare the nest for eggs.



You can clearly see the damage she has to her left foot. The good news is that she is flying and catching food, as well as nesting with her mate.

DC landing on MMB

[Hope your day is full of fun Wendy, enjoy!]

Hope your day is full of fun Wendy, enjoy!   

http://youtu.be/MrNtmsCU_ck and here he is!!


http://youtu.be/BLW1BW-U-rI

very vocal    djc

Beauty at nest being very vocal

I say, "DON'T DO THIS AGAIN!"

One of them
DC?

Actually, they are both in these pics! Didn't see the other by pole! Sneak!!