Critters Collection: Hedgehog



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Critters Home Page: Critter Collection: Hedgehog

Hedgehogs as Pets

Once you have decided to purchase a hedgehog, find out if it is legal to own one where you live. Even though all pet hedgehogs are domestically raised, they are still classified as exotic animals by most government agencies and are illegal in some states. It is important to check with your local animal control officer before attempting to purchase a hedgehog. Make sure it is legal in your area and obtain any necessary permits.

Once you know your pet will be legal, consider the animal itself. Hedgehogs come with a range of personalities. Some are outgoing and will come looking for their owners when spoken to softly. These hedgehogs may also be the most active and inquisitive pets. Typically, it is hard to get them to roll into a ball and hard to keep them still.

Kept in a draft free area, with an opportunity for play and exercise and a proper diet, your hedgehog should enjoy many happy years. This year, it will even be possible to show your pet, as NAHA has approved judges and is beginning to finalize show requirements. In addition to classes that measure the hedgehog against a standard, there are also classes for habitats. These classes will give hedgehog owners the chance to show off their creative abilities in designing homes for their pets.

Dawn Wrobel breeds hedgehogs at Ain't No Creek Ranch and is a qualified hedgehog judge. She also publishes The Hedgehog Herald and conducts seminars on hedgehog care.

Author(s): Dawn Wrobel

Critters Home Page: Critter Collection: Hedgehog

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