Waldo the hedgehog finds his soulmate - and a forever home

Adopting a pet can be life-changing, both for the new owner and for the animal. There are countless benefits to building a strong, lasting bond with a pet, and for Niki Brown it was taking in a rescue hedgehog that finally helped her to overcome anxiety.

But what can a small animal like an African pygmy hedgehog do to ease a person's anxiety? Waldo and Niki have spent hours cultivating a relationship in efforts to answer this question. 

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Niki says she first had the idea to adopt Waldo from National Exotic Rescue when her partner suggested that adopting an animal might help her to cope with anxiety. At first, Niki did not know how to approach Waldo and the hedgehog itself was wary of Niki. Now, the two are inseparable.

Niki loves feeding Waldo sweetcorn, which is his favourite food. The two can often be found snuggling together, and Niki is known for taking her pet hedgehog out with her. He provides her with comfort and peace of mind, and she provides him with a loving home. 

Niki and Waldo are truly made for each other. 

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