We have two Hedgehogs currently staying in our Hedgehog Hotel who are having special hydrotherapy sessions to help with their rehabilitation.
Puddles was taken to Suffolk Prickles Hedgehog Rescue after being found with an injured front leg. Following veterinary investigation which found no obvious breaks, we suspect that she got tangled up in pea netting and in her struggle to escape, caused soft tissue damage, meaning that she walks on her elbow rather than her foot.
Sonic was found at the side of a road, dragging his hind end after a serious back injury. Whilst he has made a good recovery so far, one back leg seems to be paralysed.
Not having four fully-functioning legs compromises the Hedgehogs survival chances as they’ll find it difficult to forage, so both Puddles and Sonic have joined us for a stay, which includes access to a pool!
Both the Hogs are getting a short hydrotherapy session every day to encourage them to move their injured legs, which will hopefully help to strengthen them over time and enable the Hedgehogs to walk properly again. Whilst staying in our Hedgehog Hotel, they also has access to an outdoor run, which they explore every evening as their mobility improves.
Although Hedgehogs can swim, it is important that any water in your garden has a ramp or shallow beach area so that they can climb out easily. All hydrotherapy sessions are supervised by our staff who recognise when the Hedgehogs are getting tired to lift them out.