Sick sugar glider

Question
I've just gotten back from my vet and they gave me antibiotics and a uncertain diagnosis for my sugar glider.  

She is 8 yrs old and was in perfect health until 2 weeks ago when she started loosing weight.  (note I have another sugar glider that is on the same diet and she looks really healthy.  I'm very careful about their diet.) Then last night when I went to feed her she was in a ball licking herself.  When I investigated I found that her gliding membrane between her front and back feet is swollen and just hanging there.  She is unable to use the mussel to hold it up.  The membrane itself is thick and squishy.  She cannot climb with them dragging longer than her legs so I've moved everything she needs to the bottom of a separate cage I've put her in.  Her eyes aren't big and bright like they usually are.  When I put my hand in she'll climb right on and go to sleep.  She wants the comfort of being held. Her fur is also very wet and crusty from all her licking she's doing right now since she's been sick. She doesn't get around very well so I'm sure that she's not getting out of the pouch to potty.  As of last nights feeding she was eating.  And she is drinking.

I stumped all the vets.  They of course don't see sugar gliders very often and the closest vet that does is 2 hours away.  They gave her a diagnosis of a bacterial infection caused by compulsive licking.  (I haven't noticed her licking any more than my other glider).  I will go through the antibiotics and if she's not getting better I'll drive to the other vet.  

I was just wondering if you have a better idea what it could be.  The symptoms are:
limp swollen gliding membrane. (dragging on the ground)
lethargic
Can't climb.(not sure if it's from the baggy skin or if she's too weak)
sunken eyes.  
she's is licking alot (but I think it's because its bugging her)  
Temperature is low.
    

Any suggestions would be great.  I'm really worried about her.

Answer
I am sorry for all your troubles in relation to your little one.. :(

Unfortunately I am unable to advise any adverse treatments as I have never encountered any similar issues with sugar gliders in my past..

Unless you are able to find a specialized Vet whom has already dealt with this particular problem I don't think you will have much luck..

I do however believe in what you are saying regarding the incessant licking of her membrane.. as she is obviously troubled by whatever is going on in there..and so I do NOT think the swelling is from her obsessive behaviors.. but more likely her trying to clean and heal the area..

You know her better than anyone.. and sometimes Vets forget to listen to that kind of information..

Medications will be key to reduce any swelling, and or infections which could result.. all I can really say is just keep her a comfortable as you possibly can (within reason) and hope that she will overcome this hurdle she is facing..

This is one of many problems in keeping animals considered "exotic" as we are all very much still learning about these awesome creatures.. Nine times out of ten an animal is able to overcome bouts with trauma or traumatic events as this is what would happen in the wild where there are no Veterinarians and caregivers.. and in the event she does not recover you sadly might need to prepare yourself for that as well.. :(  

I have lost a few rescues over the years and also 2 of my own gliders in the past and it never gets any easier.. but lets hope she pulls thru

Thank You & Best Wishes

Kaden O_o