AboutLaura T. Expertise Any questions regarding housing, feeding, or other care for pet hedgehogs or whether a hedgehog would be a suitable pet for a particular person or family. Also able to answer most breeding questions and willing to suggest questions to ask a veterinarian if an animal requires veterinary care.
Experience I have had pet hedgehogs for the past eleven years and have seriously bred them, focusing on excellence in health and temperament, for the past nine years. During the entire time I have owned hedgehogs I have provided rescue services whenever needed. I have been involved with several nationwide hedgehog organizations and am one of the owners of a large social and advisory site for hedgehog owners. With the help of colleagues I developed a test for hedgehog temperament that has been used both nationally and internationally by hedgehog organizations, breeders, and fanciers.
Education/Credentials BS in Early Childhood and Elementary Education. Have done extensive independent study on care of hedgehogs, including studying information on their lives in the wild and veterinary publications both on the internet and as recommended by our veterinarian.
Past/Present Clients Kansas State University School of Veterinary Medicine, Sedgwick County Zoo, Garden City Zoo
Question Hi, I was just wondering were to get a hedgehog? I know of one place only. I live in central Alberta if that helps?
Answer Your best bet is going to be to do a web search for breeders in your area. You can also ask at your vet or at local pet stores, although I wouldn't suggest buying from a pet store unless you really trust them. It isn't impossible to find a good hedgehog in a pet store, but far too often they offer lesser quality animals with no support or guarantee, so I hesitate to suggest purchasing from one unless you feel VERY secure in dealing with them and are impressed with the quality of the animal they are offering. Unfortunately hedgehogs aren't as popular as they once were and it can be difficult to find a good breeder within driving distance. You can find some further information on interviewing a breeder and what to look for in a hedgehog at www.hedgehogworld.com. Please don't hesitate to ask if you have other questions. :)
