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Frieda Hughes's owls undergo critical surgeries to save their sight

Mar 13, 2026, 1:05 PM10
(Update: Mar 13, 2026, 1:05 PM)
English-born Australian poet and painter

Frieda Hughes's owls undergo critical surgeries to save their sight

  • Two owls underwent surgeries for cataracts and eyelid issues at a specialized veterinary clinic.
  • The surgeries required extensive preparation and the involvement of experts in owl care.
  • Frieda Hughes's story emphasizes the dedication required for proper animal care and the complexities involved.
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Story

In a recent event, Frieda Hughes took her two owls to the vet for much-needed surgeries in the UK. The first owl needed cataract surgery, while the second required an eyelid biopsy. The preparation for these surgeries involved locating a veterinary expert with experience specifically dealing with owls and finding an anesthetist comfortable with the unique challenges presented by these birds of prey. After an extensive search that took months, Hughes prepared for the surgeries with a picnic and some poetry to ease her anxiety. The surgeries involved advanced veterinary techniques and equipment tailored to the intricate anatomy of owls. The process was nerve-wracking for Hughes, who waited anxiously while her owls were operated on. After surgery, the owls required careful post-operative care, including administering multiple medications to aid their recovery. Despite the stressful experience, there was hope as the surgeries were expected to yield positive outcomes, ensuring the owls would have a better quality of life. Hughes's dedication to her pets illustrates the lengths pet owners will go to ensure the health and well-being of their animals, showcasing the importance of specialized veterinary care in treating wildlife and exotic pets. The narrative highlights the blend of emotional investment and scientific expertise involved in caring for such unique animals.

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