Exotic Nutrition Pet Company: Where do I get a Pet Hedgehog ? Exotic Nutrition

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Thursday, June 30, 2011

Although there are many different types of hedgehogs in Africa, Europe and other areas of the world, none are native to the United States. In the early 90s the importation of hedgehogs from Africa ended, so any that are here now have been bred as pets. The hedgehogs you find here are African white-bellied hedgehogs. They have spines (modified hairs) with a soft, white fur underside. They will fit in the palm of your hand and will typically weigh between 1 to 1 ½ pounds (450 to 700 grams).
Where do you get a hedgehog? There are three choices: a breeder, a pet store or a rescue. A breeder should be willing to let you see their facility when you pick up your hedgehog. You’ll have to fill out USDA paperwork (unless the breeder is very small, in which case they do not have to be USDA licensed). The breeder should give you some type of guarantee as to the health of the animal and be able to supply you with family history at least several generations back. Get a small amount of the food the hedgehog was fed to make the transition to whatever you choose to feed easier on the hedgehog.
Your hedgehog may or may not come with an International Hedgehog Registry (IHR) number. If the breeder hasn’t registered their litters with the IHR, consider registering your hedgehog. There’s no cost, but it’s a way to track genetic lines, and you will also need a number if you decide to enter your hedgehog in any of the International Hedgehog Association- sanctioned conformation shows. A hedgehog from a breeder usually is used to being handled and is well socialized.

For more information, visit the Hedgehog department at Exotic Nutrition.

Labels: Where do I get a Hedgehog?