Does your dog have a BOAS? Essential reading…
BOAS, or Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome
Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS), is a condition that affects dogs with short noses and flat faces, like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Shih-tzus. These distinctive features can lead to breathing and health issues that need special attention.
Key Features of BOAS
Stenotic Nares: Narrowed nostrils that make it hard for the dog to breathe through their nose.
Elongated Soft Palate: The soft part at the back of the roof of the mouth is too long and can block the airway, causing snoring and breathing problems.
Hypoplastic Trachea: A smaller than normal windpipe, making it harder for air to get to the lungs.
Laryngeal Collapse: Weakening of the voice box, which can collapse and block the airway, making breathing difficult.
Symptoms of BOAS
Noisy Breathing: Loud breathing, snoring, or snorting sounds.
Frequent Panting: Heavy panting, even when not active.
Exercise Intolerance: Getting tired quickly and struggling with physical activity.
Gagging and Choking: Trouble swallowing, leading to gagging or choking, especially when eating or drinking.
Heat Sensitivity: Struggling in hot weather due to difficulty cooling down through panting.
Management and Treatment
Weight Management: Keeping your dog at a healthy weight helps reduce breathing difficulties. Managing weight, especially weight loss, can be difficult so we run Nurse led Weight clinics to help with this.
Avoid Overheating: Keep your dog cool, especially during hot weather. Provide plenty of water and shade, and avoid outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day.
Surgical Interventions: Sometimes surgery is needed to help your dog breathe better. This can include widening the nostrils, shortening the soft palate, or removing tissue that blocks the airway.
Exercise Regulation: Gentle, short walks are best. Avoid strenuous activities that can cause breathing distress.
Diet and Feeding: Feed your dog smaller, more frequent meals and use a shallow or elevated bowl to make eating easier and reduce the risk of choking.
Environmental Modifications: Ensure good ventilation in your home, use air purifiers, and create a stress-free environment to help your dog breathe more easily.
What to Do If You Think Your Dog Has BOAS
If you suspect your dog may have BOAS, here’s what you should do:
Monitor Symptoms: Watch for signs of noisy breathing, excessive panting, difficulty with exercise, and any gagging or choking.
Consult Your Vet: Make an appointment with us to discuss your concerns. There will likely be many things that we can help with
Follow Veterinary Advice: Your vet will recommend a plan to help your dog, which might include weight management, lifestyle changes, or surgery. Follow their advice carefully.
Make Lifestyle Changes: Adjust your dog’s exercise routine, keep them cool, and modify their diet and feeding practices to help them breathe easier.
Emergency Preparedness: Know the signs of severe breathing problems, like blue gums or collapse, and have a plan for emergency vet visits.
Regular Check-ups: Schedule regular vet visits to monitor your dog’s condition and adjust their care plan as needed.
Conclusion
BOAS is a condition that needs careful management and sometimes surgery to help dogs live comfortably. By watching for signs of breathing problems and working with us, you can create a care plan that improves your dog’s quality of life. Regular check-ups and proactive care are essential to keeping your furry friend happy and healthy.
Any Questions?
If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to contact the practice.