Last Updated on October 19, 2022.
Need for a New Home
- There are times when hedgehog owners feel they simply cannot give their hedgehog the love and attention it deserves.
- Sometimes hedgehogs are more of a prickly ball than the cuddly critter their owner imagined they would be.
- Moving, job changes, or other changes in an owner’s lifestyle can create a need to find a new home for their hedgehog.
- Whatever the reason, it is important to find the best possible home for your pet.
Returning to the Breeder
- Most hedgehog breeders will gladly accept any hedgehog that needs a new home.
- Conscientious breeders will work with your animal to get to know its personality.
- Many breeders and rescues will try to find a new home for your hedgehog that has hedgehog experience or someone who bonds well with your pet.
Humane Societies and Animal Shelters
- Some humane societies and animal shelters will accept hedgehogs.
- Unfortunately many shelters are not experienced in handling exotic animals, including hedgehogs.
- Undoubtedly these animal rescue organizations will do their best to care for your pet. Humane societies and animal shelters are not as good of a choice as returning your pet to a breeder.
Turning Pets Loose
- Releasing or abandoning a pet in the wild is almost a certain death sentence for your pet.
- Depending on where you live, hedgehogs will likely only be able to survive in the summer when the weather is warm.
- Pet hedgehogs do not have the foraging skills necessary to find food, much less be able to protect themselves against predators and human-related dangers.
- Turning a hedgehog loose, or any other exotic or domesticated animal, in the wild is illegal.
- Many states have passed laws prohibiting exotic pets, because of irresponsible pet ownership. We strongly encourage you to make the kindest choice for a pet that you can no longer care for and find it a new home rather than turning it loose in the wild.
Contributor: Gail Smith, Susan Crocker, Susan’s Hawkeye Hedgies, Melissa Ramos
