A local hedgehog welfare group is appealing for kind-hearted animal lovers to set up new hedgehog rescue centres.
Blandford Hedgehog Group (BHHG) fears that as Spring approaches and hedgehogs emerge from hibernation, more and more will find themselves in perilous situations.
Between August and December last year, Blandford HHG placed more than 100 hedgehogs into local rescue centres. The majority of these went to Hamworthy and Crossways, with Hazelbury Bryan, Halstock, Portland and Bournemouth taking on the remainder.
Rescues operate 365 days a year and do not receive any official funding. Each rescue initiative has to raise funds to pay for food, bedding, medication and vet bills.
Recently Blandford HHG purchased two infrared heaters for the hedgehog refuge at Hamworthy.
“These have helped to significantly reduce their energy bills and keep our hogs toasty warm during the cold periods,” said Blandford HHG. “This year, sadly, Crossways has had to close completely, Halstock will not be operating until better housing has been sourced, and Hamworthy will be reducing their numbers to a maximum of 50.
“We are in desperate need of more hedgehog rescuers and fosterers, and dedicated volunteers who are prepared to help improve the situation for our hedgehogs,” the group added.
“In certain circumstances, Blandford HHG may be able to help with the cost of training. We may also be able to help with volunteers from our group to assist with the daily care of the hogs.
“If you are interested in finding out more, starting a rescue, becoming a fosterer or joining our amazing team of volunteers shredding newspaper for bedding, transporting hogs and [helping with] donations, please contact Denise on 07519 885147. You can also contact us through our Blandford HHG Facebook page, or email hedgehogs.blandford@gmail.com.”