Lucky the Possum

Lucky, a senior opossum, around 2.5 to 3 years old, came into Ruth’s care late this summer, severely underweight and with an already healing broken leg. After the leg was fully healed, she was still underweight so Ruth planned to overwinter her and release her in the spring.

On November 2nd, Lucky’s eye was bloodshot. Within days, it was clear she was in serious discomfort and scratching at her face trying to find relief. Dr Sue Kelly examined her and scheduled surgery at the Windham County Humane Society to remove the eye. Once Dr Kelly and Dr. Cote began to prepare for surgery, they discovered the real issue—a large abscess above her teeth, just below the eye.

What a lucky possum.

Dr. Cote successfully removed the infected teeth, cleaned the abscess, and treated her self-inflicted facial wounds. Lucky is now resting comfortably with both eyes, along with a good dose of antibiotics and pain relief.

Saving Lucky’s life was made possible by a collaboration between the WCHS, our Windham County Wildlife (Mammal) Veterinarian, Dr Kelly, and by BEEC wildlife rehabilitators.

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