Your bulldog’s adorable snorts and snuffles might seem charming, but when breathing becomes a struggle, these sounds signal something more serious. BOAS (Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome) surgery can completely transform your bulldog’s quality of life by opening blocked airways, allowing them to exercise comfortably, sleep peacefully, and enjoy activities they once found exhausting.
At Broadway Veterinary Hospital, we understand how heartbreaking it can be to watch your bulldog struggle with breathing difficulties. Our skilled, UC Davis-educated veterinarians have helped countless bulldogs breathe easier and live more comfortable lives through BOAS surgery, giving them the freedom to play, explore, and simply be dogs again.
What is BOAS in Bulldogs?
BOAS occurs when a dog’s shortened airways create breathing obstacles. Bulldogs, with their flat faces and compressed nasal passages, often develop this condition due to their unique anatomy. Therefore, all Bulldogs likely have some degree of this condition. The syndrome involves several structural problems working together to make breathing difficult. Common signs include loud breathing, particularly during excitement or exercise, excessive panting, and difficulty cooling down after activity.
You might notice your bulldog seems tired more quickly than other dogs or struggles to keep up during walks. Some dogs even experience episodes where they seem to be choking or can’t catch their breath. The condition affects bulldogs differently, with some showing mild symptoms while others struggle with basic daily activities.
The Science Behind Breathing Surgery
BOAS surgery addresses the physical obstructions in your bulldog’s airway through precise surgical techniques. The procedure typically involves two main components: widening the nostrils and shortening the soft palate.
How the Procedure Works
The modifications from BOAS surgery create more space for air to flow freely through your dog’s respiratory system. During nostril surgery, we remove tissue from the nasal openings to create larger passages, allowing more air to enter the nose with each breath.
The soft palate procedure involves removing excess tissue from the roof of the mouth, preventing it from blocking the throat during breathing. Modern laser technology makes these procedures more precise and comfortable for patients, reducing bleeding and swelling while creating clean surgical sites that heal more efficiently.
4 Ways BOAS Surgery Can Improve Your Bulldog’s Life
The transformation many bulldogs experience after BOAS surgery can be remarkable, improving their quality of life and physical health. The most common improvements include the following positive changes:
- Increased exercise tolerance and stamina during walks and playtime
- Better heat regulation and reduced panting in warm weather
- Improved sleep quality with less snoring and breathing interruptions
- Greater interest in physical activities and interactive games
These improvements contribute to overall health and happiness, creating a positive cycle of improved well-being. Exercise tolerance typically increases gradually over several months following surgery, and while your bulldog may never become a marathon runner, most dogs can enjoy activities they previously found exhausting.
Is Your Bulldog a Candidate for Surgery?
Not every bulldog with breathing difficulties requires surgery, but many can benefit from the procedure. Ideal candidates often show clear signs of breathing obstruction, such as loud respiratory sounds, exercise intolerance, or heat sensitivity.
Age considerations matter too, as younger dogs generally recover more quickly than senior pets. We will evaluate your bulldog’s anatomy and symptoms to determine if surgery is appropriate by examining the nostrils, throat, and overall respiratory function.
Some dogs exhibit mild symptoms that can be managed through weight control and lifestyle modifications, while others require surgical intervention for significant improvement. Dogs with severe BOAS symptoms often benefit most from surgery, and if your bulldog struggles with basic activities or shows signs of respiratory distress, surgical correction may provide significant relief. Our preventive care approach helps identify breathing issues early, allowing for timely intervention when needed.
Contact Broadway Veterinary Hospital for Your Bulldog’s BOAS Surgery
At Broadway Veterinary Hospital, Dr. Sam and Dr. Tyler bring exceptional skill to bulldog surgeries, including BOAS repair procedures where we use laser technology to open nasal passages and remove portions of the soft palate. Our trusted practice has deep experience with bulldogs, and all our veterinarians are UC Davis graduates with extensive training in companion animal medicine.
We’ve helped numerous bulldogs in the Sacramento area breathe easier and enjoy more active lives through expertly performed BOAS surgeries. Our commitment to your pet’s comfort and recovery means you’ll receive detailed guidance throughout the entire process, from pre-surgical consultation through complete healing. To schedule a consultation for your bulldog, call us at (916) 446-6154 or visit our contact form.