It's Showtime!

Although less common than shows for rabbits, ferrets and some other small mammals, hedgehog shows are slowing gaining popularity within the exotic pet world. The first of these shows was held in 1995 just outside Seattle, Washington. Since then, shows have been held throughout the US - including New Jersey, Illinois, Pennsylvania and Colorado. There have also been several shows in Canada.

Prior to the first sanctioned show, a Standard of Perfection was established for hedgehogs. It describes the ideal hedgehog and sets a goal for breeders as they work to improve the quality of their animals. Originally, this standard was developed by the International Hedgehog Fanciers' Society, a group which no longer exists. Today, most judging standards are derived from this original.

At all hedgehog shows, temperament is the single most important consideration. This is due to the obvious importance of good temperament in a pet. It also reflects the basic need for a show hedgie to be tame and calm, so physical characteristics can be accurately evaluated. Other considerations include body shape, quill quality, and color.

About The Shows

Hedgehog shows are divided into various classes based on the animal's sex, age and color. Currently, there are nearly eighty commonly recognized color variations, with more likely to continue appearing. Since there are so many possible colors, they're likely to be grouped into categories for shows. The color categories most often used are:

• Standard Coat
  This class usually includes Salt & Pepper, Gray, Chocolate and Brown. At some larger shows, Standard Coat is split into two categories.
• Apricot/Cinnacot/Cinnamon
  This class usually includes all the Apricot and Cinnamon colors.
• Snowflake
  This class usually includes all the Snowflake variations.
• Pinto
  This class usually includes all hedgehogs displaying pinto markings.
• Albino
  Since Albinism is so different from colors, it is judged separately.

Three other classes are sometimes included at shows. They are:

• IHR Registered
  This class is open only to hedgehogs registered by the International Hedgehog Registry.
• Junior Showmanship
  This class is for youths showing hedgehogs of any type. Most often, both the animal and the exhibitor's handling techinque are judged.
• Senior Hedgehogs
  This class is for older hedgehogs (usually past 3 years of age) of any type.

At hedgehog shows, the animals are removed from their cages and brought to a judging table. This way, everyone at the show is able to see what makes a show winning 'hog. This method also helps in judging temperament.

Entering A Show

When you decide to exhibit at a show, you'll receive an entry form from the group or individual sponsoring the event. It should provide all the information needed about the show - including time, location and entry fees. Most shows allow you to enter on show day, but it'll probably cost more and will be a distraction for you. Pre-register and save yourself the hassle!

The entry form should be self-explanatory, but be sure to fill it out accurately. One of the questions on the form will be your hedgehog's color. Your hedgehog will be entered into the color division you specify. If you're not sure about color, leave that space blank. On show day, the judge or show staff can determine this for you.

Since temperament counts more in the show ring than any other factor, only enter hedgehogs that are friendly, well-socialized and calm. And, remember, your pet's behavior at home isn't what counts! Shows are noisy and filled with new smells and sounds. Be sure your hedgie pal will be able to take the strangeness in stride.

Getting Ready

The less you have to do on show day, the better! That way, you can be focused on the show, not on getting ready for it. Here are a few tips:

• In advance, prepare the show cage. It should be an adequate size, but doesn't need to be especially large. It is, after all, only temporary. Cat carriers are often used. Extra-large Kritter Keepers or other similar choices also work well. Whatever you use, make sure it is clean and in good condition.

• The exhibitor's name and the hedgehog's name should both be clearly marked on the cage. Color, gender and other biographical information is nice, but not necessary. If you're entering more than one hedgie, it's acceptable to house them together. However, be sure they're compatible and don't mix sexes!

• While preparing the cage, assemble the other supplies you'll need - such as bedding and a water bottle. Water should be available at the show, but take your own. Unless travelling a great distance, you probably don't need food. However, your spiny friend is sure to appreciate a few favorite treats.

• Pack all the supplies in a tote bag. Then, double check it! You might want to include one or two towels. You can always use a towel - as a blanket or sun screen, for picking up a grumpy 'hog, or a variety of other uses. A damp washcloth in a recloseable baggie may also be useful.

• The day before the show, select your outfit. The hedgehogs are being judged, but your appearance counts. Clothes should be neutral, clean and presentable. Khaki slacks, polo shirts and similar attire are good choices. Faded jeans, oversized t-shirts, leggings and similar attire aren't. If travelling a great distance, bring "show clothes" and change when you arrive.

• The night before the show, give your hedgehog a warm bath. Using a soft toothbrush, gently scrub the quills. Finally, trim his toenails. After his bath, be sure to keep your pet warm until completely dry.

• For Snowflake and Pinto hedgehogs, use a small amount of bluing shampoo during his bath. This will make the white quills brighter and bolder. However, never bleach or alter an animal's color in any way. It is completely unethical and could lead to disqualification. More importantly, this could make your pet ill or even kill him!

• Once all your other preparations are completed, review the show information, plan to arrive at least 20 minutes early and get a good night's sleep.

The Big Day

Once you've arrived at the show, check in with the show staff. They'll tell you where to place your show cage and provide any last minute information or schedule changes. Find the table for your cage and do whatever setting up is needed.

Show Etiquette Don't talk to the judge before the show Unless you need the color of your hedgehog determined, it's unlikely the judge will have the time to chat. It also isn't appropriate show behavior. Don't wander off While waiting for your class to be called, pay attention to the other judging. Not only is this educational, it means you'll be there when it's time for you. Don't talk while at the judging table Unless the judge asks you a specific question, there is absolutely nothing that needs saying at this time. Never argue with a judge about decisions You aren't going to change placings and could be disqualified from the show. It's also just plain tacky! Never complain to others about the judge's decisions Again, its just plain tacky! If you feel you have a legitimate complaint, speak privately to the show orgainzer. Stay through the entire judging Once you're done, don't start packing up until the entire judging is completed.

You'll probably now have a short wait before the judging actually starts. Look at the vendor booths, peek into the cages of other exhibitors, and relax! Your main goal at the show should be to have fun.

At most shows, your class will be announced about five minutes before being called to the judging table. A sleepy 'hog is likely to be grumpy. So, when your class is announced, pick up you hedgie and be sure he's wide awake.

When called, quickly take your hedgehog to the judging table and wait for further instructions. When told, you'll stand behind the table, facing the audience. Place your hedgehog on the judging table with his head facing front.

Few hedgies stay put when set on the judging table. Don't let this fluster you. To keep your pet in place, block his forward vision with one hand and "tuck" his rump with the other. Watch other exhibitors in classes before yours to see how they do it.

The judge may as ask your hedgehog's age. If an adult female 'hog, you could also be asked if she's been bred before and the date of her last litter. Expect these questions and have the answers ready.

When the judging is complete, the judge will announce the placings and provide an explanation of the decisions. This way, the exhibitors and audience have the opportunity to learn more about what makes a show winning hedgehog.

Once your class is completed, be considerate of those that follow you. Quickly leave the judging area and quietly return your hedgie to his cage. If you have other hedgehogs entered in the show, stay nearby so you can start the process all over when called. We'd recommend having a bottle of water or soda tucked in with your 'hog supplies.

After the judging is completed, there are usually other events scheduled. These often include costume contests, hedgehog olympics, vendors with hedgehog supplies and collectibles, seminars and more.

Finally, when you exhibit in a show, remember to have fun! Ultimately, that's what the shows are about. If you go with the goal of winning, you won't have fun. But, if fun is your goal, you might be pleasantly surprised with a ribbon or two.

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