Like most pets, the hedgehog takes quite a bit of commitment. First of all, finding a place to adopt them from is tricky. The slightest bit of research will reveal that buying a hedgehog from a pet store is not a good idea (which probably applies to a lot of animals, especially exotic ones). Even if you find a breeder in your state, you have to wait until they have babies available and try to get one reserved as soon as possible. I am driving four hours out of state because it was going to be the fastest and easiest solution for me.
Hedgies aren't cheap. I don't know what hamsters run, but I bet it isn't in the $150-$300 range. And that's just the adoption fee. They require a large living space, an exercise wheel, bedding, a hiding place, quality food, toys, and controlled temperature.
Despite all of this, hedgehogs supposedly make excellent pets. They tend to get along fine with other pets (cats want nothing to do with them since they're pokey). They aren't rodents, so they don't chew on things. They don't have an offensive odor, and are relatively quiet. You can snuggle with them on your lap while watching TV. They are good swimmers, so bath time is not too stressful. They aren't known to be biters. Did I mention that they are stinkin' cute?
Enough chatter. I will have more to discuss once I have her in my home. Here are some baby pictures my breeder recently sent me.
Meet Petunia.
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