This is a snowy owl that was recently admitted to our center. She came in with one of the more difficult conditions to handle, which is a simple general weakness, lack of appetite, and poor engagement with her surroundings. While none of these symptoms are immediately life-threatening, they are difficult due to the massive number of problems that cause them. An animal that has general weakness and loss of appetite could be suffering anything from an equivalent of the common cold for their species to a brain tumor.

Fortunately, our veterinary team has a host of diagnostic tools at their disposal for cases just like this. After a basic round of X-rays and bloodwork, it became clear that the owl was almost certainly in the grips of an infection. She was proscribed fluids, anti-inflammatories, antibiotics, plenty of rest, and a force-fed diet of mice. After a few days of this, she was visibly improved. She has begun to eat on her own, and has more energy.

We are going to continue the current treatment until she improves to an acceptable level for release. Her subsequent reintroduction to the wild will be mediated with the assistance of experts in owl care that we are currently in contact with. For now, we’re just glad that she’s looking better than when she first arrived.