In the busy city, with its skyscrapers and crowded streets, a tiny creature was in trouble. But fate had something special in store for Shusha, the baby hedgehog, whose story of survival and love stands out like a shining light.
Lost in the City
“I never ever planned to have a house hedgehog, but now here she is biting at my favorite jeans,” Yuliiana recalls the day she found Shusha to Cuddle Buddies. She then goes on to talk about how the hedgehog has taken over her life completely. “We share everything from my couch to my husband.”
How Shusha Survived
“One day, as it was getting dark, I found a small, spiky bundle. It was Shusha, but she was hurt and not at all like a healthy baby hedgehog should be,” Yuliiana shares the moment she discovered Shusha.
The excitement quickly turned to concern when it was obvious that Shusha was lost and badly hurt, with a big wound on her head.
Yuliiana didn’t hesitate: “I couldn’t just leave her alone among the skyscrapers, so I scooped her up and rushed to the vet. Their best guess was that a dog attacked Shusha. And they didn’t give her many chances. But we hoped for a miracle, grabbed some meds, and headed home.”
Building a Bond
The journey wasn’t easy; as Yuliiana explains, “It was non-stop work. I was putting ointments on her every day. And, oh gosh, she was so stubborn about it.”
Despite the challenges, a turning point came: “But then something amazing happened. I was giving her treatments as usual, and she put her quills down. She laid them flat and soft so that I could pet her, and she melted right into my hand.”
This marked the beginning of a beautiful trust between Yuliiana and Shusha. “I almost cried in that moment. Shusha finally trusted me,” Yuliiana remembers.
From that point on, every day was better than the last. Shusha’s energy and sassiness began to shine through, filling their home with joy.
Shusha’s New Life
Shusha’s adventures didn’t stop there. “She runs all over our house. If you see a moving lamp, just know it’s Shusha,” Yuliiana says with a laugh.
Even more, Shusha became a hit outside the home: “She definitely turned heads at the park. I take her to work, and although she just naps through my shifts, she is everyone’s favorite co-worker.”
However, Yuliiana knows Shusha’s limitations: “Unfortunately, Shusha will never be able to live outside. She still has some health problems, and she’s too used to humans to survive on her own.” But that doesn’t dampen their spirits, as they do everything to make her happy.
Hedgehog Care
Caring for a hedgehog is a big commitment, and it starts with understanding that these little guys are natural loners who are up and active when most of us are asleep. They’re not the cuddly type and can take a while to warm up to you, needing a gentle touch to feel comfortable.
When it comes to food, hedgehogs need a diet that’s high in protein but not too fatty. They love munching on insects. And while there’s special hedgehog food you can buy, a little variety with fresh fruits and veggies can be good, too.
Health-wise, keeping your hedgehog fit is key because they can get chubby and run into many problems. Clean hands are a must since hedgehogs can carry salmonella, which can make people sick. And remember, if you ever need to make a vet trip, find someone who really knows about exotic pets.
All in all, having a hedgehog as a pet is a whole adventure. It’s not all just about their cute faces; it’s about giving them the right care, food, and love they need to thrive.
Just like Yuliiana found out with her hedgehog Shusha, it’s a journey that can change your life, as long as you’re ready for the responsibility.
Compassion Saves the Day
@polskih2.0 #асмр ♬ оригинальный звук – Мать ежей•Mother of Hedgehogs
Yuliiana’s journey with Shusha is a testament to the power of rescue and compassion. “You may call me crazy, but I love this tiny hedgehog with all my heart. And if I went back to the day I met Shusha, I would rescue her a million times,” Yuliiana reflects.
She also offers advice to those considering rescuing or adopting an exotic animal: “Please make sure to contact professionals and do your research so that they can have the best life possible.”
Shusha’s story, shared by Yuliiana, is a beautiful example of hope, healing, and the strong connections formed when we open our hearts to the smallest among us.
It’s a reminder of the joy and fulfillment that come from caring for a creature in need and the unbreakable bond that can develop from a single act of kindness.
