My best friend has had at least two very sick squirrels in her yard, convulsions, lesions,severe scratching, etc. I have seen the animals myself and am positive it is NOT mange. From what I have researched on the internet, I believe it to be squirrel pox. If that is indeed what it is should she be concerned for her pets?? also, is there a way to put these poor creatures out of there misery, it appears to be a slow torturous death?! What should she/we do??

It can be difficult to diagnose disease in wildlife without testing. To be safe, the pets should not be allowed to have contact with the sick squirrels. It is fine to let them use the yard, as long as there is not direct contact with the squirrels. The best thing to do is to leave the squirrels alone. I understand that watching an animal suffer is not a pleasant experience. But it is dangerous to handle wildlife, particularly sick or injured wildlife.