WILDLIFE centre staff are hoping an injured hedgehog will be able to return to the wild.

The hedgehog had a harrowing experience after becoming trapped in between a fencing panel and a post in a garden, and was then attacked by a dog.

Despite having a gaping wound on the side of his body, the hedgehog was rescued by the RSPCA, and is now recovering at the animal welfare charity’s Stapeley Grange Wildlife Centre in Nantwich.

RSPCA inspector Charlotte Melvin was called to the incident on August 4.

She said: “The poor hedgehog had got himself wedged between a fence panel and a post and was struggling to get out.

“He was really suffering, and must have used up so much energy trying to get out as he was panting heavily when I arrived.

“He had a large gaping wound on his side and blood was visible, as while he was stuck a dog had found him and, being curious, started to paw at him.

“I was really concerned about the hedgehog and tried to free him, however it became obvious that I would need extra help from the fire service to free him.”

The hedgehog was freed after firefighters used force to pull the fence apart.

Inspector Melvin took the hedgehog immediately to Stapeley Grange, where staff stitched him up and monitored him.

Centre manager Lee Stewart said the hedgehog was doing really well, and the team were hopeful he will make a full recovery and would be returned to the wild.

Inspector Melvin added: “We are very grateful to the woman who noticed the hedgehog for contacting us, and it is good to know that there are people who are looking out for the animals.

“The woman did the right thing in contacting the RSPCA and because of her quick thinking the hedgehog was safely rescued and is now recovery, rather than suffering a horrible death.”

Anyone who sees an animal in distress should contact the RSPCA on 0300 1234 999. The RSPCA is a charity and relies on public donations to exist.