Sparkle's last chance

[starbug]

She's doing really well.

Please could you describe the 'lift and lay' technique, Souffle? I don't know what that is.

[Artisans_uk]

What a wonderful thread, souffle. As a new mum, I'm keen to learn, not that either Bracken or Rue are biters. Although, I didn't know how Rue was going to be but as it happens, she's fine with being handled.

Skills are always good to have, though, and I'll be following Sparkles' progress with interest. Well done to you and her for the great progress made already. ☺

[souffle]

Sorry for the lack of updates. I've had a busy week and it's been hard to find time to upload pics. Princess Sparkle is still making good progress. She seems to be feeling the change in weather and has built a giant nest! Mounding all her shavings under the shelf. Looks cosy though! I have some concerns about her size and her not putting on much weight but she may just be a small hamster. She was 94g when she came and despite a 'baby' diet with plenty extras she is still only 102g. Our youngsters would be bigger at this age. She is active enough and seems all right healthwise so we will keep trying.
She has gripped my hand a few times but never bitten down. I try and not allow her the chance to bite. If she grips I say no and keep handling her whilst taking 'nonsense' about how that is no way for a hamster to behave LOL. Her family is hoping to come for a visit this week so we shall see how she gets on. They are happy for her to stay as long as she needs so we shall see.
Starbug - the lift and lay is just that. Look at these two pics - I pick her up with my hand over her body and her nose under the heel of my hand. This lessens the ability for her to bite. I simply lift for a few seconds then lay her down so she can continue her business.




Sometimes I use a box or basket to lift and lay in to. Sparkle thought she may just climb out herself!


I gave her a bit of pepper! I think I overestimated her pouch size but she shoved it in anyway!




Then she spat it out for a nibble!


You can see it in her pouch here


Sparkle waves a paw and I'll keep you updated!

[Hekomi]

Awwh, what a cutie. I should practice the lift and lay technique with Cora once she's doing better. She's not gained a lot either, maybe they can both be little together, hehe.

[kyrilliondaemon]

Awwww, it seems like she's doing well. I hope her family visiting goes nicely

[souffle]

I'm sadly unsure that Sparkle's story will have a happy ending. I haven't updated the thread for a while due to some serious concerns over Sparkles health. She has done really well with her taming and I love her to bits but since I had her I have felt something was amiss with her health. She has been sleeping an awful lot for a young hamster and despite all my efforts has been steadily losing weight. She has lost about 15g and now feels ribby however my biggest worry is that she does look swollen on one side in her right kidney position. Her ears are also back indicating she is not feeling well.
I have an appointment tonight and I will be taking her to my trusted vet who specialises in small animals and has never let me down though he will not mess about pretending anything with you and I trust him to do what is right by her.
So what can I say? Life hasn't been great to Sparkle, it isn't fair but can you send her wishes for her appointment tonight that maybe just maybe things will turn out OK? xx

[Panda's_mommy]

Awe she's so cute! Hoping she will be ok. Keep us posted!

[Teddy001]

I'm so sorry to hear this about Sparkles. What a hard time for Sparkles, and still young. My thoughts and prayers that its nothing serious.xx

[TraceyH]

I'm saddened to read this news. I hope for a miracle, that she somehow manages to get through this.

[leedsgurl]

Aww no sending as many happy and healing thoughts Sparkles way as I can x