I have 2 mule deer bucks that showed up on my property just after the rut limping. At first I figured that they had been hurt fighting but I've noticed that both of them have a very swollen foot and neither buck will put weight on that leg. I have seen this once before in another buck a few years back. There are no cuts or noticeable damage to the exterior of either foot. The hoof is splayed. Both bucks otherwise look fine and show up at the feeder daily. I'm concerned that whatever this is might be transmitted to other deer.
I agree Jack. The only other thing I have seen is a broken foot. That could have occured while a fight took place.
Joined Apr 2009
1,485 Posts | 0+
Vaughn, MT 59487
Johnny,
That was another possibility that they broke a bone above the toe while fighting. Foot rot usually occures with wet weather which CO. shouldn't have now. Either way looks like time will tell. Should heal in four weeks or less if a bone is broke.
That was another possibility that they broke a bone above the toe while fighting. Foot rot usually occures with wet weather which CO. shouldn't have now. Either way looks like time will tell. Should heal in four weeks or less if a bone is broke.
Banamine will help with swelling, and have you tried shooting them with Draxxin or another long-lasting antibiotic?
I think darting them might pose some difficulties as I am under the assumption that they are wild animals. Jack you hit the nail on the head with the moisture. Maybe in the spring or summer months but now, things should be pretty well dry or frozen for that matter.
Johnny B
Johnny B
Just keeping an eye on them is all that I think you will be able to do aside from medicating feed for them. That would get costly doing that though.
Johnny B
Johnny B
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