1. **Assess the Situation**: First, determine the extent of the injury. Look for visible wounds, bleeding, or signs of distress. If the hedgehog is in shock (e.g., lethargic, unresponsive), it requires immediate help.
2. **Safety First**: Wear gloves to protect yourself and the hedgehog. Hedgehogs can carry parasites, and they may also feel threatened and bite.
3. **Containment**: Gently place the hedgehog in a secure, ventilated box lined with soft bedding such as towels or newspaper. Avoid using materials that can be ingested, like cotton.
4. **Keep it Warm**: Hedgehogs are prone to hypothermia, especially when injured. Place a heat source (like a hot water bottle wrapped in a towel) in the box to keep it warm, but ensure it’s not too hot.
5. **Do Not Feed or Give Water**: Until a veterinarian can assess the hedgehog, avoid feeding or giving it water, as this can complicate medical treatment.
6. **Seek Veterinary Care**: Contact a wildlife rehabilitator or veterinarian experienced with hedgehogs as soon as possible. They will provide the necessary medical treatment, which may include wound cleaning, antibiotics, or even surgery.
7. **Follow-Up Care**: If the hedgehog is treated and released back to you, follow the vet’s instructions for care, including any medication and dietary recommendations. Ensure it has a quiet, safe space to recover.
8. **Prevent Future Injuries**: If the hedgehog was injured due to human activity (like cars or pets), consider ways to make your area safer for wildlife, such as creating hedgehog highways or reducing hazards in your garden.
Remember, hedgehogs are delicate creatures, and professional help is crucial for their recovery. By acting quickly and responsibly, you can give a wounded hedgehog the best chance at healing and returning to the wild.
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