With Christmas coming up I just want a PSA of the reality of owning a hedgehog.

I think this goes for any pet, I personally don't believe animals should be seasonal gifts and research should always be done. But as someone who has got their first hog at the start of the year I wanted to give some advice.

• don't believe Instagram. Every single one I see there are obviously ridiculously posed pictures, maybe it's just me but I refuse to believe one could stay still for that long 😂
• you need to put in a lot of commitment, patience and time to socialise them. I've seen a lot of people in groups I'm in need to re-home a hog before the first year as they can't put the time in. You need at least an hour a day socialising but realistically a lot more for them to be comfortable around you and others.
• you need a specialist vet. A lot of places might not have an exotic animal vet near you. This is vital. So make sure you have to this.
• you need heating to ensure they don't hibernate.
• you will likely be spiked, bitten and pooped on. It can be really really disheartening being spiked, hissed at or even bitten when you feel like you've mad progress.

As someone who grew up with all sorts of animals, I would thoroughly not advise a hedgehog for a child. They're unique animals and require a lot of work up front to get them comfortable. They're not going to roll over and look for belly rubs and aren't affectionate in the same way a dog or cat would be.

That said Ralph has been an amazing pet and it's an amazing experience getting to bond with a hedgehog. I just want to make it very clear to please be prepared for work if you decide to take on a hog friend.

Edit: if anyone wants anymore info of insight into owning a hedgehog please feel free to drop me a DM for a chat. It's an amazing experience but a completely unique one and very different to other pets.