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To Our Hedgehog Customers:
BEWARE OF COMMERCIALLY RAISED HEDGEHOGS!
Recently there has been an influx of commercially raised hedgehogs coming
into the local market place. Some of these animals have been showing up at
pet stores and other locations. These animals are raised on large mass
produced breeding farms. Their lineage is questionable and non-verifiable.
Many have been shipped in large groups from across the United States.
They have been exposed to additional shipping stress. They are being
distributed by folks who are BROKERS. These people ARE NOT THE
BREEDERS of these animals. In many cases, the seller doesn’t even have
basic knowledge of hedgehog care and socialization needs. Some of these
commercial hedgehogs are being sold at bargain basement prices in an
effort to sell quantity with total disregard to the well being of the individual
animals. THIS IS NOT A DEAL IN OUR OPINION!
1. HEDGEHOGS by Vickie has been BREEDING OUR OWN hedgies for
over 10 years.
2. We keep pedigrees on all of our animals. Many going back 8+ generations.
3. There is a serious disease known in hedgehogs called WOBBLY
HEDGEHOG SYNDROME. This horrible genetic defect mimics the effects
of Muscular Dystrophy in people. “WHS” cannot usually be detected until
the animal is 18 months or older. Diagnosis in your adult pet can be
heartbreaking. WE HAVE NEVER HAD A CASE OF “WHS” IN ANY OF
OUR ANIMALS.
4. Many hedgehogs commonly harbor mites. Treatment requires veterinary
care and costs. Our herd has been certified “mite free” for a number of
years. We work closely with our Veterinarian on a preventative
maintenance program to eliminate the risk of future infestations.
5. We are “hedgehog people”. USDA licensed BREEDERS. Member
breeders of THE INTERNATIONAL HEDGEHOG ASSOCIATION. We are
local, and we are here for you if you need informed after sales support.
6. We care about our animals and we care about our customers. Our
reputation for having some of the finest hedgehogs in the country
precedes us throughout the hedgehog community.
Taking a new pet into your home is a big responsibility. This decision
should be thought our carefully. Please do not make the mistake of
purchasing an inferior animal, and supporting those that sell them, in an
effort to save a few
dollars.
Thank you for considering our hedgehogs,
Vickie & Gary Jester
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