* Gwen found her forever home with lovely people! Yay! *

Humane Society of Durham Region reached out to us for help when they received a hedgehog that had been abandoned by her owner. We were happy to take this prickly little girl in. She’ll have a vet visit soon, and we’ll have more info once she has settled into her foster home.

We were sure to tell Gwen that she is safe, and will never be abandoned again.

Welcome to Ladybird, Gwen! We’re so happy you’re here!

* UPDATE December 22nd, 2023 *
This was unexpected! Gwen gave birth last night! We had no idea she was pregnant, but she had four babies during the night. Quite a surprise for her foster mom to wake up to. Unfortunately, one of the babies didn’t make it, but the other three are doing well so far. Gwen is a VERY protective mom, and she’s telling off everyone who comes near her babies. Understandable after everything she has been through. She just wants to keep her babies safe.

Welcome to Ladybird, hedgie babies!

* UPDATE February 20, 2024 *
Gwen did a great job raising her babies and now she’s ready to find her forever home!
Gwen would do best in a home with no small children, as she can get a bit ornery at times. She can be friendly, but she does get moody and will try to bite. Can’t blame her though! She’s been through a lot.
A home with hedgehog experience home would be great for her.
Gwen likes to run in her wheel and she enjoys exploring time outside of her cage.
Like all hedgehogs, Gwen will poop while she runs in her wheel. It can get very messy, so potential adopters will need to be prepared to clean the wheel every day, and also be sure Gwen’s feet stay clear of stuck-on poop. Having her walk around a sink with a small amount of warm water helps loosen up stuck on feces for easier cleaning.

A few hedgehog basics:
– they are nocturnal, and rarely come out during the day
– they require a large, solid bottom enclosure (not wire bottom)
– they need an extra large wheel (solid running surface, not wire)
– fleece bedding, or a soft paper based bedding (such as Carefresh brand) are best
– they need a constant heat source such as ceramic heat emitter (a heat lamp without the light)
– curled up in a soft cuddle sack is a hedgie’s favourite place to sleep
– their diet includes hedgehog specific food mixed with a high-quality dry cat food, and snacks like mealworms, egg, and apple
– they require a veterinarian who is experienced with “exotic” pet care

Hedgehogs are not a “starter pet.” Potential adopters are encouraged to extensively research hedgehog care before making the decision to bring one home.