the Tokyo ‘clinic’ treating stuffed toys

TOKYO – At a Tokyo clinic, a woman in a white coat carefully records the particulars of the newest patient: a sheep-shaped stuffed toy.

The Natsumi Clinic specialises in restoring much-loved teddies and other cuddly toys to their original glory, delighting deeply attached owners like Yui Kato, who brought in the sheep, Yuki-chan.

“I thought I had no choice but to throw her away as she’s absolutely worn out, but then I heard there’s a hospital that deals with this sort of thing,” the 24-year-old told AFP.

“Maybe she won’t be exactly how she once was, but I came here hoping to see her healthy again.”

The clinic offers treatments ranging from “eye surgery” and hair…