
24 Aug Helping Your Frenchie Breathe Better: Understanding and Managing BOAS
Frenchie BAS (BOAS) Surgery and how can it help Frenchies breathe?
Is your French Bulldog struggling to breathe? They might be one of the many dogs affected by Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome (BOAS). This respiratory condition, common in flat-faced breeds like French Bulldogs, can significantly impact your pet’s quality of life. In this post, we’ll explore the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for BOAS, as well as provide tips on how to care for a French Bulldog with this condition.
Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) is primarily caused by the physical structure of flat-faced breeds. These dogs have been selectively bred to have shortened skulls, which unfortunately leads to a number of airway abnormalities.
Here are the main factors contributing to BOAS:
- Stenotic Nares: These are abnormally small nostrils, restricting airflow.
- Elongated Soft Palate: The soft tissue at the back of the mouth is too long, obstructing the airway.
- Everted Laryngeal Saccules: Tissue near the vocal cords folds inward during breathing, blocking airflow.
- Hypoplastic Trachea: The windpipe is abnormally narrow, reducing oxygen intake.
- Other Factors: While less common, factors such as enlarged tonsils, nasal turbinate overgrowth, and laryngeal collapse can also contribute to BOAS.
It’s important to note that not all brachycephalic dogs develop severe BOAS. However, even mild cases can significantly impact a dog’s quality of life.
How Harmful is BOAS to French bulldogs?
Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) can be a serious and potentially life-threatening condition for French Bulldogs and other flat-faced breeds. The combination of their unique facial structure and the demands of breathing can lead to significant respiratory distress.
High temperatures and humidity exacerbate the condition, as these dogs rely heavily on panting to cool down. When their airways are already restricted, the increased effort to breathe can lead to:
- Oxygen deprivation: Insufficient oxygen can damage organs and lead to health complications.
- Heart strain: The heart works harder to compensate for the reduced airflow, increasing the risk of heart problems.
- Increased risk of heatstroke: Overheating is a major concern for brachycephalic dogs due to their limited ability to cool down.
Obesity can worsen BOAS by putting additional pressure on the already compromised airways.
Recognizing the signs of BOAS is crucial for early intervention. While some French Bulldogs may exhibit only mild symptoms, others may experience more severe respiratory distress. Here are common indicators:
- Snoring, wheezing, or gasping: These noises are often the first signs of difficulty breathing.
- Exercise intolerance: French Bulldogs with BOAS may tire easily during playtime or walks.
- Difficulty eating or swallowing: The soft palate can interfere with eating, leading to regurgitation or choking.
- Blue or purple tongue or gums: This indicates severe oxygen deprivation and requires immediate veterinary attention.
- Loud breathing or open-mouth breathing: These are signs of increased effort to breathe.
- Excessive panting: While panting is normal for dogs, excessive panting can be a symptom of BOAS.
It’s important to note that not all French Bulldogs with brachycephalic features will experience severe BOAS. However, many will exhibit some degree of respiratory difficulty.
If you notice any of these signs in your French Bulldog, it’s essential to consult with us for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Book a FREE Breathing Assessment for your dog now!
French Bulldog Struggling to Breathe? How You Can Help
Caring for a French Bulldog with Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome (BOAS) requires patience, attention to detail, and a proactive approach. Here are some strategies to help improve your dog’s quality of life:
- Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for French Bulldogs with BOAS. Excess weight puts additional strain on the respiratory system. Consult your veterinarian at Southern Cross Vet for a recommended diet and exercise plan.
- Temperature Control: Overheating can be life-threatening for brachycephalic breeds. Provide your French Bulldog with a cool, shaded environment, especially during hot weather. Consider using fans or air conditioning.
- Feeding Adjustments:
- Slow Feeding: Use slow feeder bowls or puzzle feeders to encourage slower eating and reduce the risk of choking.
- Elevated Feeding: Raising your dog’s food bowl can sometimes help prevent regurgitation.
- Smaller, More Frequent Meals: This can reduce the amount of food your dog consumes at once.
- Soft Food: Some French Bulldogs may find soft food easier to eat.
- Regular Veterinary Care: Regular check-ups are essential for monitoring your dog’s condition and addressing any changes.
While these lifestyle modifications can help manage BOAS symptoms, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian to determine the best course of action for your dog. In some cases, surgery may be the best option to address underlying airway issues. At Southern Cross Vet we provide a FREE breathing consult to provide you the guidance you need on Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome.
Minimally Invasive Surgery at Southern Cross Vet
Under the leadership of our founder and Director, Dr. Sam Kovac, Southern Cross Veterinary Clinic has pioneered a minimally invasive surgical technique for treating Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS). This groundbreaking procedure offers numerous advantages for your pet:
- Shorter Surgery Time: Our innovative approach has reduced surgery time by an impressive 40 minutes compared to traditional methods.
- Minimally Invasive: Using a Caiman handpiece and radiofrequency technology, we gently and precisely address the soft palate without the use of lasers.
- Safer for Your Pet: Our commitment to patient safety is unwavering. We employ a dedicated veterinary anaesthetist to monitor your pet’s condition throughout the procedure, allowing our surgeons to focus exclusively on the surgical technique.
- Faster Recovery: In most cases, patients can return home on the same day, minimizing stress for both you and your pet.
Our prowess in BOAS surgery has been recognized by leading media outlets, including the Daily Telegraph, Wentworth Courier, Channel 7 News, and Vet Practice Magazine.
Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) is a serious condition that significantly impacts the quality of life for affected breeds, such as French Bulldogs and Pugs. While it cannot be cured, there are effective management strategies and treatment options available.
Book a FREE Breathing Assessment for your dog now!
At Southern Cross Veterinary Clinic, we are committed to providing comprehensive care for dogs with BOAS. Our team of veterinarians can assess your pet’s condition, recommend appropriate treatment plans, and offer support throughout their journey. Whether it’s through lifestyle modifications, medical management, or surgical intervention, we are here to help you make informed decisions for your beloved companion.
Author: Dr Sam Kovac BVSC (Merit)
Sam followed his dream of becoming a veterinary surgeon that began at age three. Since that time, he has developed a strong interest in oncology, internal medicine and animal behaviour. Now a Chartered Member of the Australian Veterinary Association, Dr Sam continues his passion of providing the most up-to-date care to his patients and their two-legged family.
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