Family of Foxs in Backyard
May 26, 2015 22:41:15 #
Neighborhood estimate is 3 or 4 kits almost full grown. I suspect they have a flea or mite infestation because they scratch a lot and rub themselves on the ground. We had an idea to spread flea powder on the ground where they rub their fur but no store carries it any more. I hate to see them suffer. Any ideas UHHs, short of flea drops on top of neck, please advise.
May 26, 2015 23:06:01 #
Solving a flea problem in wild animals may be too complicated. Anything you might attempt could cause harm and disturb a natural balance. I was originally going to suggest finding some kind of oral flea treatment, but once you start feeding them you'll create a situation that's dangerous to the animals on many levels not to mention making them dependent.
In the meantime, keep sharing lots of photos of these wonderful animals. This is a very enjoyable series.
In the meantime, keep sharing lots of photos of these wonderful animals. This is a very enjoyable series.
May 26, 2015 23:36:30 #
vicksart wrote:
Solving a flea problem in wild animals may be too complicated. Anything you might attempt could cause harm and disturb a natural balance. I was originally going to suggest finding some kind of oral flea treatment, but once you start feeding them you'll create a situation that's dangerous to the animals on many levels not to mention making them dependent.
In the meantime, keep sharing lots of photos of these wonderful animals. This is a very enjoyable series.
In the meantime, keep sharing lots of photos of these wonderful animals. This is a very enjoyable series.
Thank you for your comments. In human medicine it is said 'Do no harm' so I will call our vet just to assure myself. Yesterday, as I sat on the back patio, a fox was out for a stroll half way up the yard, just then saw me and Surprize!, ran up and under our shed. Did not see any today.
May 27, 2015 00:33:49 #
May 27, 2015 01:49:35 #
Most flea powders were made with Sevin Dust. 5% Sevin dust can usually be found in lawn and garden centers. Unfortunately, when wet it becomes ineffective and fleas build a resistance to it fairly quickly which is why you rarely find flea powders any more. Buying oral flea medication will be costly for a family of foxes. You would also have to ensure each one only received his dose. If there is a wildlife center in your area you may want to give them a call and see if they have any suggestions.
Best of luck to you and them and thank you for trying to help them. You have a good heart.
Best of luck to you and them and thank you for trying to help them. You have a good heart.
May 27, 2015 04:33:28 #
May 27, 2015 06:15:46 #
ringo
Loc: australia
It looks like they have Mange( not sure of the spelling) we use to hunt foxes a few years back for their skins,but if they had Mange they were worthless,in the dollar value,,,,,,,good on you for trying to help them,,,,regards ringo
May 27, 2015 07:04:46 #
ringo wrote:
It looks like they have Mange( not sure of the spelling) we use to hunt foxes a few years back for their skins,but if they had Mange they were worthless,in the dollar value,,,,,,,good on you for trying to help them,,,,regards ringo
I think you are right - and the animals may die if not treated. Lots of articles on how to deal with this in wild foxes online. The state fish and game service might be prepared to dal with this. Here's one:
http://www.wildlifeonline.me.uk/mange.html
May 27, 2015 09:54:26 #
donrent
Loc: Punta Gorda , Fl
Saw a film once where a Fox picked up a fairly large stick and slowly walked into the lake to a point where only he nose and mouth holding the stick were above water... He again slowly let go of the stick , stuck his head under water for a second or so and moved away from the stick and walked back onto land - the stick was loaded with fleas... (the photographer showed it on film.)...
May 27, 2015 22:33:44 #
May 28, 2015 01:24:00 #
Try spreading cedar bark in the area where they roll on the ground. It might help with the fleas.
Ron
Ron
May 29, 2015 16:21:04 #
Thank you all for your concern and comments. I was referred to a licensed wildlife handler who told me the the bad news. There is no wildlife animal rehab hospital in this area and if he traps a fox with mange he has to, by PA law, euthanize it. I would like to try dusting Sevin powder on the ground where they hang out but haven't seen any in 2 mornings. Sorry I can't report better news. Will update with pictures or If I see less scratching.
Nov 25, 2015 13:52:22 #
Just a quick update on fox family. After returning from short trip in July, found remains of 1 fox at very top of yard. I suspect it was the one with the mange. Then heard from somebody the rest were using a cemetery, just short of a mile from me, as a home base. Drove over several times, stayed in car, but never seen any. Today, had dentist appt. at office that overlooks cemetery, and they have seen them, off and on, in the AMs, catching some sun and remarked how the one (mother?) was a beautiful golden brown. I would hope the fittest are around and hale and healthy. ps Thankful Thanksgiving to All.
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