8 newborn mice

Question
I found a nest of 8 newborn mice doing repairs on house. No hair eyes closed.Tinier than my pinky. I have been feeding them kittem milk and so far its going on 3 days and all 8 are still alive and eating. This is very hard because i also have 4 cats and 3 dogs. No help, just me. can you suggest anyone you would take these precious little ones.

Answer
Hi Jennifer,

First of all - wow!  You are doing a great job!  It is extremely difficult to raise mice from that young of an age, and you are doing splendidly.

I do know how tough it is on a person to do that around the clock, however, and I sympathize.  Fortunately, there are a lot of people and groups you can ask to take them on.  The first place I would start is calling your local animal rescue groups.  They likely only work with larger companion animals, but they may know OF someone who has experience with orphaned mice.  Another few places to try calling are your local pet shops, rodent breeders, veterinarians, or wildlife rehabilitators.  Again, while most of these may not be able to personally help you, they can probably point you in the right direction!  The last place I would try in a pinch would be reptile owners/breeders.  Obviously you do not want to hand the mouse babies over to them, BUT, they are the ones most likely to know of your area's mouse breeders, who may have experience hand feeding and be able to give you a hand.

No matter who you turn them over to, remember to ask them lots of questions and ask to watch them care for the pups at first.  Observing a feeding can give you an idea if they really are as experienced and responsible as they claim to be.  Additionally, be cautious with any person you give them to who works with predatory animals (reptiles, birds of prey, etc.) - they may be perfectly kind-hearted and wish to help out, but it is better to be safe than sorry.  Asking questions and using your eyes are the best ways to make sure that any animal you give to another person is safe and cared for.

Best of luck, and let me know if I can be of any more help!
-Tam