As a resident of Pennsylvania, I find it disheartening that owning a hedgehog as a pet is illegal in our state. These charming creatures are not only wonderful pets but also pose no environmental threat due to our harsh winters. Currently, Pennsylvania is one of only four states that bans hedgehogs, alongside California, Georgia, and Hawaii. However, unlike these other states where the climate could potentially allow hedgehogs to survive year-round outdoors and become invasive species, in Pennsylvania there is no chance of them surviving the winter outside.

Interestingly enough, if I were to move just 5 minutes away to New Jersey or any surrounding state where it's legal to own these delightful creatures as pets with an exotic pet license - I could have one! It doesn't make sense why we Pennsylvanians are denied this opportunity.

I believe that residents should be able to obtain an exotic pet license for owning a hedgehog like any other exotic pet in PA. Therefore, we urge lawmakers and relevant authorities in Pennsylvania to reconsider this ban on hedgehog ownership and allow us the joy of having these enchanting animals as part of our families.

Currently, any hedgehogs in PA must be destroyed, even if it is caught traveling through the state to its new home in a legal state! That causes hedgehogs owners moving to PA to have to rehome their animals, or keep them illegally with risk of euthanasia and fines if caught. 

Please sign this petition if you agree that Pennsylvanians should have the right to legally own hedgehogs as pets.

Bill 567 has been drafted by the Pennsylvania fish and wildlife commission and is awaiting being brought into session by the committee chair, Anita Kulick.  You can reach representative Kulick at 7177833780 and ask her to bring bill 567 to session and vote in favor of legalizing hedgehogs. 

 You can also call your local rep to ask them to vote in favor of the bill, when it comes to session.  

Please share this with any Pennsylvania residents or hedgehog lovers who might support our mission to legalize hedgehogs in the state!