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Hedgehogs are lovely pets that can be taken outdoors, especially during the summer. Since they are talented escape artists, it is only normal to wonder whether putting harnesses on their necks is the way to go. This article answers the question "Can Hedgehogs Wear Harnesses?" by discussing the feasibility of putting a leash on hedgehogs to prevent escapes during time spent outdoors. Let's get started. Can Hedgehogs Wear Harnesses? Hedgehogs cannot wear harnesses because of their tendency to curl up in a ball when threatened which sticks up their quills as a form of defense. Wearing harnesses may result in potential quill breakages, back muscle pulling, and even fatalities. Hedgehogs get tired of staying confined for extended periods and outdoor trips can be a great way to offer a change of scenery and improve their moods. This is often possible in the summer when temperatures soar making outdoor expeditions more comfortable. Hedgehogs may be smart escape artists but consistent monitoring during the time outdoors can keep them safe. Harnesses could be unnecessary as long as the right safety mechanisms such as the fixing of outdoor playpens are put in place. Playpens are enclosed areas where hedgehogs can play in the outdoor environment. These sectioned-off spaces eliminate escapes and protect the hedgehogs from potentially harmful situations like getting attacked by larger animals such as stray dogs. Putting hedgehogs in outdoor playpens could also offer protection against potentially fatal situations like accidental runovers from moving cars. Can Hedgehogs Wear Harnesses? Hedgehogs may wear harnesses but it is a needless venture that could potentially put them in harm's way, especially in the outdoors. As previously stated, hedgehogs ball up as a defense mechanism against threatening situations. It is a reflex action that occurs whether they are wearing harnesses or not. Unfortunately, the process of curling up into a ball can expose hedgehogs to a higher probability of injury when wearing a leash or any form of neck or back restrictions. No wonder vets and other experts recommend against putting hedgehogs on a leash. Are Harnesses Bad For Hedgehogs? Harnesses are bad for hedgehogs and the idea should never be entertained for many reasons. Leashes are largely unnecessary because hedgehogs are not fast runners like dogs or other animals. The probability of getting outrun by a pet hedgehog is non-existent and besides leashes do not offer additional protection against predators on the ground. The owner's presence is all that is necessary to keep predators at bay which explains why constant monitoring throughout their time outdoors is recommended. Is There A Leash For Hedgehogs? A quick glance on Amazon shows there are specialized hedgehogs leashes like the NA Adjustable Harness for outdoor play. This harness is adjustable to fit the size and other physical dimensions of different hedgehog breeds. Independent reviews show many folks struggle to put the harness on their hedgehogs in the beginning but often get a hang of it over time. Can Hedgehogs Run Fast? Hedgehogs can run up to 4 miles per hour meaning the probability of outrunning their owners is low. This speed occurs in short bursts since their endurance levels are not exactly high compared to larger animals. Putting pet hedgehogs on a leash for fear of getting outrun is frivolous at best. A playpen with no holes or escape points is a much safer way to spend time with hedgehogs outdoors but constant monitoring of their movements can be critical. How Do You Take Hedgehogs For Walks? Travel carriers are a great way to take hedgehogs out for walks during favorable weather. Other owners may prefer sacks for carrying their beloved quill babies in outdoor environments to reduce susceptibility to predators. From predatory birds to stray dogs and even wild animals like foxes, hedgehogs could be exposed to many dangerous situations. Sure you may try to fend off larger animals that may attack your pet hedgehog but what are the chances of its survival? Surviving hedgehogs could be severely injured or even paralyzed from the physical attacks, especially when instigated by large birds like hawks or owls. This explains why taking your eyes off pet hedgehogs even for a few seconds can be a bad idea. Hedgehog carriers may be set off in a specific area of the outdoor environment after conducting thorough assessments of the area to verify the absence of not only predatory animals and birds but other potential hazards like ants and even bees. Staying in proximity to the hedgehog makes it clear to predatory birds that you're in charge and have no plans to abandon it. This is often enough to keep them away but constant monitoring of the situation usually continues. Leaving pet hedgehogs alone even for 30 seconds could provide a window of opportunity for predatory birds to snap them up because the message is that you're no longer interested in claiming the prey. Avoid taking hedgehogs outside in the glaring sun because it can be harsh on their eyes. Remember, hedgehogs are nocturnal creatures that sleep throughout the day. There are essentially no guarantees of staying awake throughout the time outdoors. Pet carriers or sacks provide multiple opportunities for comfortable sleep. Additionally, we recommend taking them out during the late mornings or late evenings when the sun's rays are yet to flare up. What's The Best Way For Hedgehogs To Play Outdoors? The best period for hedgehogs to play outdoors is late mornings just before the sun's rays pop up or late evenings after sundown. This ensures the ability to enjoy mild temperatures with a good chance of a cool breeze. Unfortunately, hedgehogs can only be taken outdoors in the summer because of the low temperatures during the other times of the year. The risk of hibernation and resultant effects including death may be high which is why keeping them indoors could be the best route. Fortunately, running wheels can keep hedgehogs entertained and physically active regardless of what time of the year it is. Hedgehogs may also be let out of their cages from time to time to minimize cage rage and other psychological side effects of staying confined for too long. Can Hedgehogs Wear Sweaters? There are numerous cute pics of hedgehogs in sweaters and other clothes online. But, putting sweaters on a hedgehog can be difficult increasing the chances of poking injuries to owners, and quill soreness. Hedgehogs should only be taken outdoors during the summer when temperatures are mild. Sweaters cannot offer enough protection against harsh weather even if you manage to put them on pet hedgehogs. How Can Hedgehogs Play Safely In the outdoors? Here are a few ways to offer protection for hedgehogs during their time outdoors in the summer. Feed, hydrate, and allow hedgehogs to poop before going outdoors Put your hedgehog in a travel carrier or sack during transit Scout the outdoor to ensure there are no roaming ants or bugs Make sure the outdoor spot has no holes hedgehogs may fall intoAvoid areas with water bodies hedgehogs could drown inCreate a playpen with no escape routes for hedgehogsMake sure the target area is pesticide-free Scout the area to rule out beehives because bee attacks can cause severe injury and even death to hedgehogs Pick a shaded area where hedgehogs can be safe when the sun flares up unexpectedly The reflective side of old CDs can be placed close to the hedgehog to ward off predatory birds Eliminate potentially harmful objects like knives or razors from the outdoor area Choose playpens with transparent fences for complete monitoring of hedgehogs throughout their time outdoors Choose outdoor areas with no poisonous plants or animals hedgehogs could potentially feed on Conclusion: Can Hedgehogs Wear Harnesses? Hedgehogs should never wear harnesses because they are unnecessary accessories that could increase exposure to injury and death. Harnesses can become a hazard when hedgehogs try to curl up during potentially life-threatening situations. Snapped necks, broken quills, and pulled muscles could occur when hedgehogs attempt to curl up while wearing harnesses. Hedgehogs can play safely in the outdoors as long as proper supervision is offered and temperatures are mild.