Their hedgehogs are kept without a wheel (a proper Hedgehog wheel is 12 inches in diameter, any smaller and they will face back problems). Without a wheel, hedgehogs will enter an extremely deep depression and have health issues if they are not able to be physically active when they want.
Also, the cage it was kept in was extremely undersized, with no room for a Hedgehog bag forcing the hedgehog to sleep on it's own litter.
This is malpractice, and torture for the hedgehogs.
As of 01/16/11 this has not been resolved. Once it is, this review will be removed.
Response (01/17/11) to Amy's comments:
Unfortunately, that is not satisfactory for hedgehogs. Basic research will reveal that the species is nocturnal and often runs multiple miles per night. Do you have overnight staff stimulating them during their natural waking hours and allowing them the opportunity to run in a wheel that is adequately sized (12 inches in diameter) with a solid running surface (exposed mesh is extremely harmful to their little feet)? If this is the case, which I highly doubt, you are still removing the ability for the animal to be independent which is still malpractice. The hedgehog in the store was asleep during store hours shaking in it's plastic igloo as it slept on a bed of litter. Other animals had adequate housing ranging from a small bed to a hammock for the Juvenile Ferret (which coincidently also was much more expensive.....) In response to sanitation for the wheel, that tends to come with caring for animals. Simply do not sell them if it is too much a hassle.
Picking and choosing the pets you properly care for is unacceptable.
Here are some links for updating your guide, and your in-store practice so you don't misinform your customers as well:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hedgehog
http://www.readersdigest.ca/pets/cms/xcms/hedgehog-care-101_3373_a.html
http://www.pogstarhedgehogs.com/basiccare.htm
Response (01/17/11) to the Hedgehog guide they provide their customers:
Just had a look through the guide - it looks good other than two particular areas.
The housing section states that hedgehogs can live in aquariums / zoo zone cages. This is actually a common mistake. Firstly, aquariums have inadequate airflow and thus should not be used for anything other than reptiles/fish. The concern about drafts is noted, however, since hedgehogs should always be in a well heated environment this should not be an issue to begin with. If they get too cold they attempt to hibernate, and since they cannot hibernate, they can die. Secondly, hedgehogs will sometimes butt their heads along the side walls of a completely enclosed area. In some instances, there has been blood shed from broken noses, etc. Is is known to happen. Most importantly though, Hedgehogs should always have a bag/and possibly a blanket or sweater (which is not at all mentioned in your guide!) It is completely unacceptable to have them sleep on litter.
The second area is handling. Gloves should never be used. Hedgehogs will adjust to the scent of their owner by simply putting a used t shirt/sock/clothing article in their hedgehog bag. Using gloves is a very common mistake and can lead to a disconnect between the hedgehog and its owner. If their is an issue with biting, etc, a small spray of water and a firm "NO!" will suffice. Picking the hedgehog up wrapped in the bag will also work. The more handling and playtime between the owner and their hedgehog, the more bonding will occur. Sometimes this can take a year or more. Gloves are an extremely short term crutch (at the very most) and should never be used.
Hope this helps.
Response to Paul D's review (01/18/2011):
I'm a little wary of the fact that you posted three reviews today, the same day you signed up, and coincidentally under 48 hours after my initial communication to the Head Office and Oakville location of Oliver Pets (separate from my commentary on this site). I won't go as far as saying you work for the company, but one can only wonder...
In regards to your comments about my "strong opinions" on Hedgehogs, was it necessary to respond to my comment if you felt you received adequate service at the store? Not at all, which furthers my feelings that you may have a hidden agenda (especially considering the casual mention of the store's "New self-bathing system" and free treat/toy per visit. Smooth) None the less, the fact is simple research will reveal that my "strong opinions" are shared by many. Owning a Hedgehog is very time consuming, cutting corners like Oliver Pets has done is a form of torture. There is no doubt about that. The ironic part is that their guide indicates that they should have a wheel in their cage (but does not mention the 12" diameter rule), and yet Oliver Pets does not have one for the hedgehog!
**I have unfortunately run out of room to update as of 18/01/2011, however, if the situation changes I will be sure to edit this review. read more