Reptile & Amphibian Forums

well, I've been pumping a combination of veggie baby food/gatorade/Doug Dix's critical care powder into the baby chuck for 2 days. 1cc at a time, twice a day.

He's still alive, and he occasionally opens his eyes. Doesn't move much though. I would not say he's doing a lot better, but he does look more plump. My question is, how do I know when to stop force-feeding? Obviously it's very stressful to him, but if I don't do it he's a goner for sure. Sort of a catch-22 - stress and handling is bad for them, but they need to feel secure and safe in order to eat and recover.

I've recussitated uros before. Never as hard as this. I might just go back to uros after this, maybe get a nigerian.
Dan

I'd kick myself in the a$$ for trading Tom's captive bred lizard for an unknown origin and try again. Don't give on Chucks because you got a poor specimen. This can happen with any lizard...even Uros. I'd say your putting more effort in this that most would have cared enough to try. Especially those who were selling them from tanks crammed with them.

I wouldn't stop the tube feeding until

1) He's moving around and thermoregulating normally and has normal alertness.
2) He dies.

Pretty simple as that. I wouldn't go 15 years, but that's just me.

I wan't telling you to go back to Uros LOL. Don't give up!!!

John

pumped another cc in him. pryed open his mouth with my Discover Card - the card that pays you back!

After that, I placed him on his basking rock and put some cardboard in front of the glass so he can't see me. At 2 o'clock, I'll feed him again.

Thanks for all your great posts guys (and girls)
Dan

Some people actually think my name is "johne" as if that is a common female name or something. I think it's hilarious if I get mail from forum people and they addressed it to "johne" Got to love it!

Good luck with the chuck! I'll be gone after 3:00 pm today and won't be posting until Monday. I'll keep my fingers crossed for you.

John