HEDGEHOG CLAN

The Plombon family of Minneapolis is a relatively unique group. Currently, three hedgehogs share their home with mom and dad. Blossom and Daisy are littermates, and Presley was added to the family shortly after her "sisters". Hedgehogs are very special creatures, whose popularity as pets is relatively new to this country. Hedgehogs are classified as insectivores, not rodents, which means they eat insects in the wild. Pet hedgehogs in the United States are of the African Pygmy variety, and come in many colors. They have a soft fur underbelly and spines over their back, with cute blunt noses and round ears. They have very inquisitive personalities, and can bond very well with people. Common health problems in hedgehogs are oral cancer, wobbly hedgehog syndrome (a degenerative neurologic disease), uterine problems such as cancer and infections, dental disease, and liver disease.

The Plombon clan is a joyful group. All three girls are relatively young. All three were spayed early, to prevent the development of uterine problems. All three have also already had their first professional dental cleanings, an important part of preventative hedgehog care. The Plombons are very in tune with Blossom, Daisy and Presley. They spend much time interacting with them, and work hard to provide a varied and complete diet and enriched environment for optimum health. Mom (Jennifer) is also involved in the greater hedgehog community. She is a member of the Hedgehog Welfare Society, which is a group that works on rescue and education. She has also lectured and given demonstrations to the veterinary students at the University of Minnesota and to other veterinary clinics as well, to promote knowledge and understanding of hedgehogs.

Another member of the Plombon family, Skeezix, passed away in June of 2004. Skeezix had been a long-time survivor of oral cancer. She had been treated with surgery and oral medication, lovingly provided by her family. She was full of spunk, and it was hard to see her go. She is fondly remembered, and we include her picture in this feature as a memorial.