Image copyright Herts Hogline

A fat hedgehog is to have hydrotherapy treatment since he is not able to curl into a ball.

The animal, nicknamed Chunkie by veterinarians, weighs about 850g (1lb 13oz) – nearly a 3rd more than he should.

A diet plan has actually not worked and volunteers taking care of him fear he may never ever be launched into the wild, as hedgehogs require to be able to huddle to assist secure themselves from predators.

Chunkie is to hang around in a swimming pool to slim down and develop muscle.

He will likewise have an X-ray to see if an issue embeding among his front legs is stopping him from snuggling effectively, although veterinarians believe it is his weight that is the factor.

The irritable client remains in the care of charity Herts Hogline, based in Bishop’s Stortford, Hertfordshire, which cares for hurt and ill hedgehogs.

Image copyright Getty Images

Lynne Garner from the charity stated: “We never ever give up so, if we can get this leg to pop inside his irritable skin, and he can safeguard himself and hibernate, he will be launched.

“If not then he’ll need to be kept in captivity for the rest of his life.

“His treatment will consist of hydrotherapy. Swimming will assist him drop weight and develop muscle around his leg.”

Hedgehog numbers are continuing to decrease in the UK, according to a report in 2015 .

Figures recommend the animals are vanishing more quickly in the countryside, as hedgerows and field margins are lost to extensive farming.

Read more: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-beds-bucks-herts-46826461