When a hedgehog arrives at our Hedgehog Hospital, they are assessed for injuries and any problems like fleas or ticks, which are then removed. We also check they don't have a wobbly walk as that usually means they are dehydrated and we need to inject fluids. We check their poo under the microscope for parasites, weigh them and give them medical treatment where needed.

We then keep them warm and cosy and continue to assess them in the hospital for 48 hours. Depending on their health needs they will either stay in the hospital for a longer period, or go out to one of our volunteers to continue their rehabilitation.

Once we are satisfied that a hedgehog is strong, healthy and able to take care of itself in the wild, they will be signed off for release. We microchip all our hogs so if they arrive back at the rescue for any reason we can identify them as one of 'ours'. This is very useful for monitoring the success of our rehabilitation work.

We always try to release a hog in the area where it was found, as it will have built up a mental map of it's 'territory' and will feel less stressed. If this isn't possible we also have a number of local release areas which provide an ideal habitat. Seeing one of our little guys trot off into the big wide world makes it all worthwhile!

Before a hedgehog can be released back into the wild it needs time to build up its strength and fully recover from any illnesses or injuries. To achieve this we place them with one of our team of volunteer foster carers, who keep the hedgehog at their own home in a suitable hutch and continue to monitor their overall health.

This is particularly important with hedgehogs arriving at the rescue in autumn or early winter, as they cannot be released until they have put on enough weight to hibernate if necessary once back in the wild. This can mean a hedgehog staying with a carer for a couple of months.