It has become quieter this week, I have admitted hogs in trouble and they are all doing very nicely but have some way to go. They have to be free from medication, continue to gain weight and reach about 500-600 grams to be freed again. Our release weights will have to go up soon because it’s getting colder and they need more fat reserves for hibernation purposes.
I am grateful to Sue and Pat for taking hoggies from me to help them get to their target weights, what I have in our home are all either small, on medication or both, picked up during the day too.
To be honest, could we cope living outside with a bad stomach, being an easy target for predators? I really don’t envy these gorgeous animals, they are up against so much it’s really unfair. If you see a hedgehog out during the day please seek advice, sometimes pregnant mums can be seen during the day looking very busy, this is because she is gathering nesting materials in readiness for her hoglets to be born. However, if you see a hedgehog looking lethargic, flies or other predators around, whatever size, needs help. Please get them out of danger, get the hog indoors, pop in a towel over the hedgehog, place in a high sided box and contact either a vet or rescue centre, I am full for the moment but help is out there.
Thanking everyone who helps this rescue survive, June, Joyce, Will and Tracy, I have been lucky enough to be in the position to purchase more effective medication for our poorly hedgehogs.
Tip of The Week: The British Hedgehog Preservation Society telephone number is 01584 890801 should you need help or advice, they have a list of rehabbers telephone numbers.
Also your local vet can help, they all have a duty of care to our wildlife and they have rescue centre telephone numbers.
Maxine