Hi IndiaHawker,
I’ve overwintered hogs for many years for various reasons – and believe me when I say its an emotional rollercoaster and you don’t want to go into that situation if you can help it.
the best thing you can do for this hog is get her checked out by a hog carer – they may check poo for signs of parasites and treat her – but to work towards releasing her is the very best advise.
She will put on weight very quickly when captive – in fact it becomes a problem trying to manage their weight when captive as they simply eat when food is available to the point of them becoming at risk when released as they are beyond healthy.
whilst they are captivated and charming and we think they are healthy because active – this tends to be a result of their stress levels – and she will simply be looking for an escape when she is awake. sometimes they pace and scratch so much that they injure themselves in the process – which is also something you don’t want to be witnessing.
Please take a look on the location map on the hedgehog bottom website for your nearest rescue / carer and talk to them, get her checked out and take their advise.
http://www.hedgehog-rescue.org.uk/cms/find-a-rescue/
hope it all goes well and keep an eye out for any others that may be around – as they usually hang around in groups when tiny.
