As a conscientious pet owner and discerning shopper, you know that bringing home a new animal companion is a big decision that requires careful research and planning. When it comes to exotic pets like hedgehogs, it‘s natural to have a lot of questions – not just about their care requirements, but also about where to ethically obtain one. Many prospective owners start their search at Petco, the well-known pet supply retailer with a presence in communities across the U.S.
The quick and easy answer is that no, Petco does not sell pet hedgehogs as of 2023. However, the story behind this policy is more nuanced and reflective of larger trends in the exotic pet trade. In this comprehensive guide, we‘ll delve into the factors influencing Petco‘s stance on hedgehogs, alternative options for finding a prickly pet, and what you need to know to be a responsible hedgehog owner.
Why doesn‘t Petco sell hedgehogs?
Petco is transparent about its decision not to sell hedgehogs, with a statement on their corporate website: "Petco does not sell or recommend rabbits, turtles, snakes, lizards, or other exotic pets as novelty or impulse purchases." While hedgehogs aren‘t explicitly named, they fall under the exotic pet umbrella.
There are a few key reasons behind this policy:
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Hedgehogs are niche pets with specific care needs. According to the Hedgehog Welfare Society, hedgehogs rank far below cats and dogs in popularity, with an estimated 40,000 kept as pets in the US. As primarily solitary, nocturnal animals with particular dietary and housing requirements, they simply don‘t have the broad appeal of more common pets.
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Legality varies by jurisdiction. Hedgehog ownership is currently banned or restricted in several states and municipalities, including California, Georgia, Hawaii, New York City, and Washington D.C. Petco has over 1,500 locations across the US, making it difficult to ensure compliance with a patchwork of local laws.
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Ethical concerns and brand reputation. Exotic pets like hedgehogs are prone to impulse purchases by well-meaning but under-prepared owners, leading to animals being surrendered to shelters or released into the wild. Petco has taken a firm stance against selling animals as "fad" pets, focusing instead on pairing potential owners with more suitable domestic companions.
So while you won‘t find hedgehogs for sale next to the hamsters at your local Petco, this policy reflects a considered approach to animal welfare and responsible pet ownership. As veteran Petco employee Sarah K. told us, "We want every animal that goes home with a customer to be set up for a lifetime of proper care. With hedgehogs, the reality is that many people aren‘t prepared for the commitment."
Where can you buy a hedgehog?
Just because Petco has opted out of hedgehog sales doesn‘t mean you‘re out of luck if you‘re dead-set on a quilled companion. However, it‘s important to be discerning and do your research to ensure you‘re getting a healthy, well-socialized animal from an ethical source. Let‘s look at the pros and cons of the most common options:
1. Licensed Breeders
Reputable hedgehog breeders are often the most reliable source for healthy, socialized baby hedgehogs. Expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $400 for a baby, depending on color and lineage.
Pros:
- Wide selection of colors/patterns
- Health histories of parents available
- Hand-raised for balanced temperament
- Breeder support and care guidance
Cons:
- Higher upfront cost
- Wait lists for babies, especially rarer colors
- Less common in states with ownership restrictions
To find a breeder, start with the International Hedgehog Association and Hedgehog Breeders Alliance breeder directories. Be prepared to ask questions about their breeding practices, health guarantees, and ongoing support.
2. Rescues and Shelters
For the eco- and budget-conscious, adopting a hedgehog in need is a feel-good option. Hedgehog-specific rescues are rare, but some exotic animal rescues take in surrendered or abandoned hedgehogs.
Pros:
- Lower cost ($50-$150 adoption fee)
- Adult temperament and health status known
- Supporting animal welfare cause
Cons:
- Limited availability/selection
- Possible behavior or health issues
- Older animals may not bond as readily
To find a hedgehog for adoption, search Petfinder or contact local exotic animal rescues to be notified of hedgehogs in need.
3. Direct Rehoming
If you prefer to skip the intermediary, you can sometimes find owners looking to rehome pet hedgehogs through classifieds like Craigslist or hedgehog-specific forums and Facebook groups.
Pros:
- Lower or no cost
- Habitat/supplies often included
- Previous owner intel on health/temperament
Cons:
- No health or behavior guarantees
- Vetting of rehoming situation on you
- Hedgehog may be older or Special-needs
When considering a rehomed hedgehog, always ask for a vet reference and detailed care history. A reputable owner will be transparent and want to ensure their pet is going to the right situation.
In most cases, buying directly from a licensed breeder will be the safest option for getting a healthy baby hedgehog with a known background. However, as long as you‘re willing to put in the extra legwork to vet the seller, rehoming or rescue can be ethical ways to save on costs while giving a hedgehog a second chance.
Hedgehog Care 101: Are you ready for the commitment?
Hedgehogs may be small, but their care needs are significant. Before taking the plunge, it‘s crucial to make sure you have the time, space, and budget to be a responsible hedgehog owner. Here‘s a quick checklist of hedgehog must-haves:
Habitat
- Cage/enclosure (min. 4 sq. ft. floor space)
- Solid-surface exercise wheel
- Hide box/nest
- Food and water dishes
- Substrate (fleece, paper bedding)
- Heat source (CHE bulb, space heater)
- Enrichment toys
Diet
- High-quality hedgehog kibble or insectivore diet
- Live/freeze-dried insects (crickets, mealworms)
- Fresh fruit and veg (small amounts)
- Fresh water
Medical Care
- Annual wellness exams
- Spay/neuter
- Emergency vet fund
Time
- 1-2 hours per day for feeding/cleaning
- 30min-1 hour daily handling/socialization
Estimated Cost Breakdown
| Item | Initial Cost | Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Hedgehog | $150-$400 | |
| Habitat | $150-$300 | $50 |
| Food/Supplies | $200 | |
| Medical Care | $100-$200 | |
| TOTAL | $300-$700 | $350-$450 |
As you can see, the cost of hedgehog ownership can be significant, especially in the first year. And while they may not need walks or training like a dog, they do need daily care and interaction to thrive.
Dr. Sandy Kim, an exotic animal veterinarian, advises: "Hedgehogs are not starter pets. They require specialized knowledge and a significant time investment to socialize properly. I always tell potential owners to do their research and make sure they‘re fully committed before bringing one home."
The Joys of Hedgehog Companionship
So you‘ve done your research, prepared your habitat, and found a reputable breeder or rescue. Congratulations – you‘re ready to bring home your new quilled companion! While hedgehogs may never be as affectionate or social as a dog or cat, they can still bond with patient, dedicated owners.
Take it from Jill Thompson, a hedgehog owner for 4 years: "When I first brought my hedgie home, she was super shy and would curl up in a ball every time I tried to handle her. But with daily gentle handling and treats, she slowly started to unroll and explore. Now she loves snuggling in my lap while I watch TV and even gives me little hedgehog kisses!"
To bond with your hedgehog, focus on creating positive associations through treats and gentle handling. Start with short sessions and let them set the pace – if they‘re balling up or hissing, respect their space and try again later. Over time, they‘ll learn that you‘re a source of tasty snacks and cozy snuggles, and will likely begin looking forward to your one-on-one time!
While you may never have a hedgehog that craves attention like a golden retriever, you can still have a rewarding relationship built on trust and understanding. The key is to appreciate them for who they are – adorably grumpy little introverts with a hidden sweet side.
Supporting Hedgehog Welfare
By now, you‘re well-versed in the joys and challenges of hedgehog ownership, and Petco‘s reasoned approach to not selling them likely makes a lot more sense. While it may be disappointing not to be able to impulse-buy a hedgehog along with your dog food and cat toys, Petco‘s policy prioritizes animal welfare over profit.
As a responsible hedgehog owner, you can do your part by committing to ethical breeder and rescue practices, and educating others on proper hedgehog care. If you see a hedgehog being kept in inappropriate conditions or notice signs of illness or distress, speak up and advocate for their well-being. The more hedgehog owners model best practices, the better the outcomes will be for these lovable little creatures.
And while Petco may not sell hedgehogs directly, they‘re still a valuable resource for owners. You can find quality food, habitats, and enrichment items both in-stores and online. Petco‘s online care sheets are also a great starting point for new owners, with overviews on diet, housing, and common health issues.
At the end of the day, bringing home a pet hedgehog is a big decision that shouldn‘t be made lightly. But with careful research, preparation, and a commitment to ethical care, hedgehogs can make delightful, quirky companions for the right owners. By supporting welfare-focused businesses like Petco and being an advocate for responsible exotic pet ownership, you can help ensure a bright future for hedgehogs – one snuffle and snuggle at a time!
