11/09/2024
We want to introduce you to Lucky. She is a senior opossum, around 2.5 to 3 years old, who came into my care late this summer, severely underweight and with an already healing broken leg. After the leg was fully healed, she was still underweight so I planned to overwinter her and release her in the spring.
On November 2nd, I noticed her eye was bloodshot. Within days, it was clear she was in serious discomfort and scratching at her face trying to find relief. My wildlife rehab veterinarian, Dr. Kelly examined her and scheduled surgery at the Windham County Humane Society to remove the eye, but once Dr Kelly and Dr. Cote began to prepare for surgery, we discovered the real issue—a large abscess above her teeth, just below the eye. Without intervention she would have died from the severity of the infection.
Dr. Cote successfully removed the infected teeth, cleaned the abscess, and treated her self-inflicted facial wounds. Vet Tech, and wildlife enthusiast, Jessalyn Pennington ensured Lucky was prepped for surgery and taken care of post-op. Lucky is now resting comfortably with both eyes, along with antibiotics and pain relief medicine.
Saving Lucky's life was made possible by a collaboration between the Windham County Humane Society, our Windham County Wildlife (Mammal) Veterinarian, Dr Kelly, and by Bonnyvale Environmental Education Center - BEEC wildlife rehabilitators.
A tremendous thank you to all involved!
