07/10/2021
Great advice here
As you all know Hedgehogs are nocturnal so when we see one out in the day itâs not usual and can indicate the hedgehog is poorly and has a problem.
Seeing them in the day often means they are infact in urgent need of rescue.
Hedgehogs never sunbathe.
In the summertime/ hoglet season we do on occasions see a mummy hog whoâs taken a break from her hoglets and may be seen out in daylight but she will be walking with purpose, if thatâs the case then she needs to be left.
I must say, if in any doubt keep your eye on the hog, observe it for a few mins..If itâs at all wobbly, laying down in the sun, has flies around it or looks unwell, then please take swift action. Rescue !
If itâs moving with intent & a purpose & seems to know where itâs going then itâs likely ok, please leave alone.
With one thatâs laying out, wobbly, with flies, please do not delay, the faster you act, the greater the chance of saving the hedgehog.
Speed is of the essence & getting the hog help is particularly important if the hedgehog is collapsed/not moving or is shaking/wobbling when walking.
What to do.
If you can, use thick gloves to pick it up, if not use an old towel, a coat or whatever you have to hand. If youâve nothing use your hands but please wash your hands as soon as you can.
Contain the hedgehog in high sided box, I say something with very high sides is quite important as hogs are good climbers.
You may have a plastic storage box or a recycling box.
This should keep the hog safe while you seek further help, and for transportation when you find a rescue.
Please bring the box indoors. Donât leave it outside where the hedgehog is still vulnerable to flies landing on it and laying eggs. Flystike is a real risk.
Place it somewhere warm.
This is vital if the hedgehog feels cold to the touch or is shaking/wobbling.
If you have a hot water bottle or a leak proof fizzy pop bottle fill with hot water.
Donât use boiling water.
Now, please wrap the bottle in an old towel and place this at the bottom of the box, under the hedgehog, cover both now with another old towel or fleece.
Keeping the hog covered will refuse the stressors under, stress is a no one killer!
It is vital to make sure that there is room for the hedgehog to move away from the heat source.
If there ainât a lot of room, please just place the warm bottle beside the hog, rather than under it.
Keep checking on the bottle to make sure it is warm , this is important, if it gets cold it will take heat away from the hedgehog causing more problems.
If you have one, you can use a microwaveable heat pad it can be better, you do need to keep the hedgehog indoors still in a warm room too.
At this point you may offer a shallow dish of water.
PLEASE, Donât offer food. I know it is tempting but this can kill a starving dehydrated hedgehog.
You can make a Hedgehog some rehydration fluid, his can be offered instead of water:
You will need ;
1 litre warm water with 1 tablespoon of sugar and 1 teaspoon of salt.
Please offer the hedgehog this in a shallow dish.
It may not drink if itâs hypothermic.
Just leave the dish in with the hedgehog.
Please never try to syringe water into a hedgehogs mouth!
It can be taken to the lungs and harm the Hedgehog.
Itâs imperative you please now call for some help.
Caring for poorly hedgehogs is absolutely a specialist task, they are very complex indeed.
Donât be tempted to try and care for it yourself without seeking advice and help from a reputable rescue.
If you have disturbed it found baby hedgehog or a nest with baby hoglets do not touch them with bare hands.
Please wear gloves. This is so your smell is not transferred.
Seek urgent advice before picking up the babies, or doing anything.
A hedgehog rescue can advise whether they are likely to have been abandoned or whether mum may come back. They are at this point best left until advice is sought and a plan of action put into place.
Finding a hedgehog hospital is the best course of action once youâve found a hedgehog needing help, or if you need advice.
The following info should help you find a rescue.
You can find details of hedgehog/wildlife rescues from the following:
www.helpwildlife.co.uk
You will also find info & advice on what to do if you find sick/injured wildlife in their site.
You may also Call the British Hedgehog Preservation Society on 01584 890801 for details of carers.
There is an answer machine with information outside office hours www.britishhedgehogs.org.uk
Why not put the above numbers into your phone !
Do it before you forget, that way you will have the number to hand if you ever need to find a hedgehog rescue quickly.
Another source you may use to find a rescue is the Hedgehog Bottom website has searchable map of rescues, it also includes international hedgehog rescues.
You could also phone The RSPCAâs 24 hour national line on 0300 1234 999.
A specialist hedgehog rescue is the best option when you have a poorly hog, but honestly if you cannot find one to see the hedgehog and especially if the hedgehog looks to be in pain, injured or is shaking,
wobbling, or has Flystike and is poorly. Please, please take it directly to your nearest vet.
They are obliged to see it and make sure itâs not suffering.
Most vets will treat wildlife for free.
Hope this info helps.
Happy Hedgehog Watching
With love
Amanda & the Hedgehogs