Pepper Is Watchung-Green Brook's Pet Of The Week

WATCHUNG/GREEN BROOK, NJ — Meet Pepper! He has been chosen as Watchung-Green Brook Patch's Pet Of The Week.

"Hello, my name is Benjamin Vishnevetski, an 8th grader from Green Brook Middle School in Green Brook. This is my pet, Pepper. She is an eight week-old African Pygmy Hedgehog. She is one of the sweetest little creatures I have ever encountered. I have met with many species around the world, since I am a world traveler. But I have never met an animal more gentle than her.

Unlike most small animals, this 0.5 pound hedgehog is quite intelligent. Her quills are sharp, but she never wants to hurt anyone. She allows me to pick her up, play with her, and fall asleep with her. Plus, I always watch TV with her on my lap.

It is a common misconception that hedgehogs are rodents. They are actually part of the shrew and mole family. Meaning that they like to dig. Also, I was able to train her into being more relaxed when I turn on classical music. I know I couldn’t have found a better pet for me.

I love Pepper and she loves me. She deserves to be recognized, not for being an exotic pet, but for being the best pet and friend any boy could ask for."

Do you think your pet should be Watchung-Green Brook's Pet of the Week?

Participating in the Pet of the Week happenings is simple: submit your nomination by emailing alexis.tarrazi@patch.com. Be sure to include a photograph or two of your pet, a paragraph about what makes him or her so great, and the town you're from. You can choose to include your name, but you don't need to. Then just keep an eye out for a photo of your pet on the Patch!

The photo can be of a present pet, or it can be a baby picture of the adult pet you're so proud of today.

(Images submitted)

Have a news tip? Email alexis.tarrazi@patch.com.

Get Patch breaking news alerts sent right to your phone with our new app. Download here.