hedgehog?

ytsirk27 · 10-09-2006, 10:17 AM

Are hedge hogs good for kids? I have a 8 yr old that fell in love with hedgehogs? I seriously dont know much about them at tall. I have tried to research....She likes hamsters, guinnea pigs and hedgehogs. I dont know where i would get a hedge hog however...any info would be great. BTW..this is for a christmas present!

redrose · 10-09-2006, 03:48 PM

Hi Yysirk27,

I've had hedgehogs for 6 years and they are not a pet for an 8 year old. They are not cuddly like a cats or dogs and when they get sick its very hard to find a good vet to treat them. The vet bills can be huge. They live between 3-5 years. I know a great breeder named Tig who lives in Kansas. I'll give you her site www.hedgehogvalley.com . She has great articles on hedgehogs. She is one of the most honest hedgehog people I know. Good Luck on your research. I hope you find a good pet for your 8 year old.

Red, owned by 6 spike balls

fertmom · 10-10-2006, 05:02 PM

I also know Tig and ditto what Red said- she is one of the best. You are lucky to be in the same state as she is if you are looking for a hedgehog. If I had to choose any of the animals your 8 year old likes I would say go with the guinea pig. We've had both and the guinea pigs were better pets for that age group. I loved our hedgies too, don't get me wrong, but for that age I would go with the GP.

moonsingingfreak · 10-10-2006, 07:17 PM

Rats also make wonderful pets for kids, as long as the parents are making sure they are getting the appropriate care (as with any pet that's for a child)

HedgieHaven · 10-11-2006, 04:57 PM

With the help from parents and them doing research they make wonderful pets.

My three kids have grown up around hedgehogs since they where young. If your child is very and I stress very responsible then you might give it a try. But I would wait until you think your child is ready. Also are you willing to help your child if the pet gets sick? Are you willing to take over if your child changes their mind? Make a pros and cons list with your child first.
House? Food? Bedding? Food/Water bowls? Space to keep pet? Other animals in house? How much time is needed? Food? Care?

Remind her there is more to just loving a pet that pet relies on someone to provide for it.

hedgies · 10-12-2006, 08:48 AM

My daughter who is 8 loves to help with the hedges she does not like taking them out of the cages but once I give them to her she loves holding them and especially cuddling them in a blanket after I have given them a bath. We breed them so she loves helping me socialize the little babies and they are perfect for her as well for the size of them. Just a little info for you.