Despite all my fears, Bilbo seems to be recovering very well. I was pretty sure that the stress of such an ordeal would have proved fatal for such a little tyke. Im glad to be proven wrong!
Today he ate a meaty rat pup, and seemed to be eager for more. Hes alert and active, and his wounds(actually huge craters) look like theyre drying up and healing quite nicely. Needless to say Im pleased with his progress.
As far the the cause of the abscesses in the first place, it seems to me that his environent(being housed with his clutch mates) is what began this condition. Its the only thing that makes any sense to me.
On to my next delima...I really have no need for this animal anymore(not to sound cold), now that he is obviously not going to be able to be re-introduced to the research group. I am in no hurry to adopt him out at this point, especially since hes not yet recovered, but I will hope to eventually find a permenant suitable home for him. That was actually my plan for all the Boscs when I agreed to take them. I was going to raise them until they were well established enough to be placed with homes. The idea for a group behaviour obserational study came after. But if I never do find anyone suitable to adopt him, I am willing to step up to the plate and and provide for him till the end of his days. Ill just have to see how it goes.
Wish me luck!
Michelle
