The Hedgie List is a pedigree resource for dedicated breeders. It is a database that keeps track of pedigrees as well as herd initials. (Herd initials are important to differentiate breeders on a pedigree. A reputable breeder will have herd initials.) It is for breeders who “have a shared interest in the accuracy and integrity of their pedigrees.”
Breeders pay a small fee to participate, and the information provided in the database is invaluable. A breeder is able to register their animals, similar to perhaps the more familiar AKC for dogs.
Registering hedgehogs and keeping their information accurate and current, is important for the livelihood of future generations of hedgehogs. In addition to their lineage, it helps ensure they are not inbred, it helps us know which hedgehogs are living or deceased, cause of death, longevity of life, colors, markings, and even provides a space for photos, so you can SEE hedgehogs in a lineage. It can even track the lineage of imported hedgehogs. Details like these are very important when making breeding decisions, especially when your goals are to improve the species as a whole.
For pet owners, you are able to use this resource to find reputable breeders in your area. They are listed by state, and show which breeders are still active, as well as their websites, contact information, and USDA license numbers, if applicable. (NOTE: Not all breeders are USDA, and this does not necessarily negate the quality of a breeder- hedgehog breeders are split between hobby breeders and USDA. A hobby breeder will have 4 or fewer breeding females. If they have more, they are required to be USDA licensed.)
An important thing to know as a pet owner, is that when hedgehog breeders say their hedgehogs are pedigreed, they aren't always REGISTERED. So when I say pedigreed in this context, I mean their hedgehogs have a registered pedigree within The Hedgie List. The word "pedigreed" in the hedgehog world is not the same as in cats or dogs or horses. It isn't to deem them "fancy" or not. This purely indicates the breeder is trying to avoid inbreeding at all costs. The reason this is important is because there is such a small gene pool for African Pygmy hedgehogs in the United States. Inbreeding can cause many health problems for the animals, and we wish to avoid that as much as we possibly can!
I wanted to share this information and get it out, because The Hedgie List is a wonderful resource for both breeders and pet owners alike! A resource such as this deserves to be supported and utilized by the hedgehog community.
Kommentare