Laser nose surgery (laser rhinoplasty/stenotic nares surgery) is a procedure that improves the breathing ability of dogs with brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS). Breeds like Pugs, Bulldogs, & French Bulldogs have difficulty breathing due to their shortened skulls & narrow nasal passages.
Why Laser Surgery?
1. Precision- Laser surgery allows for highly precise incisions, reducing damage to surrounding tissues.
2. Reduced Bleeding- The laser seals blood vessels as it cuts, minimizing blood loss.
3. Less Pain & Swelling- The laser helps to seal nerve endings & lymphatic vessels, leading to less post-operative pain & swelling.
4. Quicker Recovery- With less trauma to the tissue, dogs tend to recover faster from laser surgery compared to traditional methods.
During the surgery, the veterinarian uses a laser to remove part of the nostril tissue (stenotic nares) to widen the nasal openings.
This increases airflow & helps alleviate the respiratory distress associated with BOAS.
Benefits Include:
1. Improved breathing & oxygenation.
2. Reduced snoring & respiratory effort, especially during exercise or heat exposure.
3. Decreased risk of heatstroke & other respiratory complications.
If your dog has symptoms of BOAS, such as loud breathing, snoring, or difficulty exercising, consult a veterinarian to discuss laser surgery which can help improve their quality of life. #lasersurgery #stenoticnares #brachycephalic #bulldogsoο¬nstagram #frenchiesofmiami #frenchiesofflorida #frenchiesofnyc
Rico was confined to the indoors because of his breathing issues. He suffered from exercise intolerance, regurgitation, & had all the symptoms of this devastating animal welfare condition known as Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS). If you have a friend with a Brachycephalic pet who struggles to breathe or have had a pet who has benefited from this game changing airway procedure, please share, comment, & repost Ricoβs story. By working together we can continue educating pet lovers everywhere that help is available for pets who suffer from BOAS. #brachycephalicsyndrome #brachycephalicobstructiveairwaysyndrome #boassurgery #lasersurgery #stenoticnares #elongatedsoftpalate #frenchiesofinstagramπΎ #frenchiesofmiami #bulldogsofinstagram_worldwide #pugsofinstagramm #englishbulldogsofflorida
A Pug + Sharpei = OriPei or Pugpei
Hereβs what you can generally expect:
Ori-Peis are generally affectionate, loyal, & friendly dogs. They tend to inherit the playful nature of the Pug & the more reserved, protective demeanor of the Shar-Pei.
Health Issues: Like both parent breeds, the Ori-Pei is prone to certain health issues, such as breathing difficulties known as Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome due to the Pugβs flat face.
These breeds are also high risk for hip dysplasia, skin conditions, & eye problems.
The term βbig rope dogβ typically refers to bulldog breeds, especially those that have prominent, thick skin folds (often called βropesβ) over their noses.
The most common breeds known for these βropesβ include:
1. English Bulldog: Known for its loose, wrinkled skin, & distinctive βropeβ over the nose. They are medium-sized but quite stocky and muscular.
2. French Bulldog: A smaller breed, but also known for its facial wrinkles & nose rope. French Bulldogs are compact & have a muscular build with a distinctive bat-like ear.
Selectively breeding for βbig ropeβ characteristics is creating an Animal Welfare Crisis due to severe Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome & it has to be stopped ! #oripei #pugpei #oripeisofinstagram #brachycephaly #brachycephalicsyndrome #lasersurgery #elongatedsoftpalate #stenoticnares #bigrope #bigropefrenchie #bigropebulldogs #frenchiesofinstagramπΎ #frenchiesofpetsagram
A βFear Freeβ puppy check refers to a veterinary appointment designed to minimize FAS (fear, anxiety, & stress) for puppies. The Fear Free approach focuses on creating a positive experience for the puppy, ensuring they are comfortable, relaxed, & happy during their visit.
Hereβs what happens during a Fear Free puppy check:
1. Pre-Visit Planning: The vet may provide guidelines to help prepare your puppy, like getting them used to a carrier or certain handling techniques. You might be asked to bring your puppyβs favorite treats or toys.
2. Calm Environment: The clinic will have a calm, quiet environment. There might be soothing music, pheromone diffusers, & comfortable waiting areas to make the puppy feel at ease.
3. Gentle Handling: The team will use gentle, non-threatening handling techniques. They may avoid certain actions that could frighten the puppy & will move at a pace the puppy is comfortable with.
4. Positive Reinforcement: Treats, toys, & praise are used throughout the visit to reward calm behavior & create a positive association with the vet or groomer.
5. Tailored Approach; Every puppy is different, so the team will tailor their approach to your puppyβs specific needs, such as allowing extra time for shy puppies or using special techniques for those with previous bad experiences.
6. Pet Parent Involvement: You may be involved in the process, as your presence can be calming for the puppy. The vet team might guide you on how to help keep your puppy calm during the visit.
7. Post-Visit Support: After the visit, you might receive tips on how to continue Fear Free techniques at home, ensuring your puppy remains relaxed & happy.
The goal of a Fear Free puppy visit is to prevent any negative associations with vet visits, promoting long-term wellness & a positive relationship with the vet team. #fearfreecertifiedpractice #fearfreevetvisit #minibernadoodlesofinstagram #minibernedoodlesofinsta #minibernadoodle #bocaratonvet #bocavet #aahahealthy
Excited to present 3 lectures at the West Indies Veterinary Conference in November !
Join me in St. Kitts where we will be discussing recognizing Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome, performing Laser Surgery Correction of the Upper Airways, & the many applications & advantages of laser surgery in general practice.
This fantastic conference combines continued education (AASVB RACE-approved) with authentic Caribbean fun. For five days, you can immerse yourself in hours of lectures, discussions & social events with like-minded individuals while having the opportunity to interact with various companies in the veterinary field.
The WIVC 2024 program is approved for continuing education credits by AASVBΒ RACE. #veterinaryconference #veterinarycontinuingeducation #brachycephalicdogs #brachycephalic #frenchiesofinstagramπΎ #stenoticnares #elongatedsoftpalate #lasersurgery #wearerossvet #rossvet #rossvetlife #stkittsmarriott
π to @jilldinov & Ollie for the 5 βοΈ review ! βDr Man & his staff are amazing. Roberta couldnβt have been nicer on the phone- after hearing my concerns she made time to have us seen the same day. Our dog felt calm & enjoyed all the love & treats he received. After owning dogs for over 20 years this was our BEST experience. 10/10 for Dr Man & staff- BOCA MIDTOWNE ANIMAL HOSPITAL!!! 100%Fear Free Certifiedβ #fearfreecertifiedpractice #fearfreecertifiedprofessional #fearfreevetvisit #goldendoodleloversclub #goldendoodlesofflorida #goldendoodlesarethebest #bocavet #goldendoodlesig
Desiβs FIP recovery β€οΈβπ©Ή is AMAZING !
Desi the 1 year old kitty had a fever π‘οΈ weakness & inappetence for 1 month ! Symptoms & tests revealed FIP so we started injectable π GS-4415234 therapy.
FIP develops when feline enteric coronavirus (FECV), a common benign intestinal virus, mutates into the malignant FIPV virus. Discovered by a Cornell veterinarian in 1963, this mutant moves from intestinal cells to white blood cells called macrophages. Traveling through the body, it killed most cats within weeks. Kittens are particularly vulnerable, especially in shelters.
GS-441524 is a nucleoside analogue antiviral drug which was developed by Gilead Sciences. It is the main plasma metabolite of the antiviral prodrug remdesivir, and has a half-life of around 24 hours in human patients. Remdesivir & GS-441524 were both found to be effective in vitro against feline coronavirus strains responsible for feline infectious peritonitis (FIP), a lethal systemic disease affecting domestic cats.
Unlike published substances or drugs that inhibit FIPV by hampering cellular processes usurped by viruses for their replication,13,14 small molecules like GS-441524 interfere directly with replicative processes encoded by the virus π¦
Many thanks go out to people involved in this case fromΒ @visionvetimaging for the help with a diagnostic ultrasoundΒ toΒ @fip_warriors_5.0Β who help us vets manage FIP & to @kraftie2008 for supplying us with our 1st vial of GS #fipwarriorsofinstagram #fipsurvivor #felineinfectiousperitonitis #catsofinstagramβ€οΈ #kΔ±ttensofinstagram #fipcatsupport #veterinaryultrasound #veterinaryradiology #kittyfever #fipcatsofinstagram #fipcats
Ready to see what @tiktok is all about ! Please follow us !
Cavapoos can inherit Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS), particularly if they inherit more traits from the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
BOAS is a condition most commonly seen in brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds like French Bulldogs, English Bulldogs, Pugs, & Cavalier King Charles Spaniels.
It results from the physical structure of the dogβs skull & airways, which leads to breathing difficulties. The symptoms can range from mild snoring to severe respiratory distress.
Symptoms of BOAS
1. Noisy breathing- Often heard as snorting, snoring, or wheezing.
2. Exercise intolerance- Affected dogs may tire quickly or struggle with exercise.
3. Heat intolerance- These dogs may overheat easily, especially in warm weather.
4. Gagging or choking- Especially when excited or after exercise.
5. Sleep disturbances- Due to difficulty breathing, some dogs may have trouble sleeping comfortably.
While Cavapoos are not always brachycephalic, those with a shorter muzzle inherited from the Cavalier parent might be at risk for BOAS.
If a Cavapoo shows signs of BOAS, itβs important to manage the condition carefully:
1. Weight management- Keeping the dog at a healthy weight can reduce strain on the respiratory system.
2. Avoid overheating- Ensure the dog stays cool, especially during exercise or in hot weather.
3. Surgical intervention- to help open the airways.
Regular check-ups with a veterinarian are essential, especially if you notice any breathing difficulties in your Cavapoo. Early detection & management helps improve the quality of life for dogs with BOAS.
If youβre considering getting a Cavapoo, itβs advisable to ask the breeder about the health history of the parent dogs, particularly any issues related to breathing. #cavapoosoftheworld #cavapoolover #cavapoosofnyc #cavapoosofig #elongatedsoftpalate #brachycephalicsyndrome #stenoticnares #lasersurgery #veterinarysurgeon
Cavapoos can inherit Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS), particularly if they inherit more traits from the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
BOAS is a condition most commonly seen in brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds like French Bulldogs, English Bulldogs, Pugs, & Cavalier King Charles Spaniels.
It results from the physical structure of the dogβs skull & airways, which leads to breathing difficulties. The symptoms can range from mild snoring to severe respiratory distress.
Symptoms of BOAS
1. Noisy breathing- Often heard as snorting, snoring, or wheezing.
2. Exercise intolerance- Affected dogs may tire quickly or struggle with exercise.
3. Heat intolerance- These dogs may overheat easily, especially in warm weather.
4. Gagging or choking- Especially when excited or after exercise.
5. Sleep disturbances- Due to difficulty breathing, some dogs may have trouble sleeping comfortably.
While Cavapoos are not always brachycephalic, those with a shorter muzzle inherited from the Cavalier parent might be at risk for BOAS.
If a Cavapoo shows signs of BOAS, itβs important to manage the condition carefully:
1. Weight management- Keeping the dog at a healthy weight can reduce strain on the respiratory system.
2. Avoid overheating- Ensure the dog stays cool, especially during exercise or in hot weather.
3. Surgical intervention- to help open the airways.
Regular check-ups with a veterinarian are essential, especially if you notice any breathing difficulties in your Cavapoo. Early detection & management helps improve the quality of life for dogs with BOAS.
If youβre considering getting a Cavapoo, itβs advisable to ask the breeder about the health history of the parent dogs, particularly any issues related to breathing. #cavapoosoftheworld #cavapoolover #cavapoosofnyc #cavapoosofig #elongatedsoftpalate #brachycephalicsyndrome #stenoticnares #lasersurgery #veterinarysurgeon
We must do better to help raise awareness about Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS). A recent study revealed a majority of show judges (59.3%) agreed (totally or partly) that it is essential to follow the breed standard, even if it can be associated with health issues.
The corresponding percentages of veterinarians, breeders, & owners were 7.4%, 37.9%, & 27.5%, respectively.
Breed standards are descriptions of anatomic features of a breed and are βprescribedβ by the cynological organisations (Federation Cynologic Internationale (FCI), the Royal Kennel Club (UK) & the American Kennel Club (AKC)).
Since the nineteenth century, several standards have been adopted by the Royal Kennel Club [36] & somewhat later similar standards were internationally recognized by the FCI & the AKC.
The breed standards often describe an βideal pictureβ of a breed, rather than a range, & are formulated as short, long, small or great. These undefined measures introduce a possibility of subjective interpretations of the breed standards & may lead to promotion of anatomical exaggerations.
Breed standards have been in focus since 1960 for their detrimental effect due to the risk of encouraging exaggeration of anatomical features such as too much skin, too short legs or too short & broad skull [37, 38].
Since then, the standards have been rephrased, & a statement saying that βOnly functionally & clinically healthy dogs, with breed typical conformation should be used for breedingβ has been added to breed standards. #brachycephalicsyndrome #pettravel #petraveller #pettransportation #frenchiesofpetsagram #frenchbulldogsoftheworld #frenchieprobs
Excited for Fridayβs Facebook Live @1:00pm with @whenpetsfly & @dr.nelva !
We will discuss Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) & the associated health issues of Brachycephalic Dog Breeds when it comes to safe pet travel !
I am thrilled to have this opportunity to delve into this topic with a fellow veterinary professional who has dedicated her life to safe pet travel.
Traveling with a brachycephalic breed dog or cat involves risks that we need to address. Letβs engage in this critical conversation together!
#whenpetsfly #brachycephalicsyndrome #brachycephalyawareness #brachycephalicdogs #frenchbulldogsoninstagram #frenchbulliesofinstagram #elongatedsoftpalate #lasersurgery #stenoticnares #pettravellers #safepettravel #travellingwithpets
The respiratory & gi tract share overlapping mechanisms required for breathing & swallowing. The prevalence of gi disease in brachycephalic dogs presenting for respiratory signs is as high as 97% (Poncet 2005 l/2006; Kaye 2018; Freiche & German 2021).
The most common signs are regurgitation, vomiting & dysphagia (Roedler 2013; Freiche & German 2021).
Congenital/acquired hiatal hernia (HH), frequently represents an additional finding for BOAS. HH is defined as prolapse of abdominal organs through the oesophageal hiatus into the mediastinum & is exacerbated in brachycephalic dogs by an abnormal intrathoracic & intra-oesophageal pressure (Reeve 2017; Broux 2018)
Herniation of the stomach leads to chronic regurgitation & predisposes to oesophagitis, GDV & aspiration pneumonia (Mayhew et al. 2021).
Oesophageal motility disorders are common in brachycephalic dogs, & include prolonged oesophageal transit time (Reeve et al. 2017), & prolonged secondary peristaltic waves (Eivers et al. 2019). These variations predispose to gastroesophageal reflux disease (Poncet 2005 2006; Reeve et al. 2017; Kaye 2018; Eivers 2019).
GERD is defined as the pathological reflux of gastric or duodenal contents with resultant oesophagitis, oesophageal ulceration, & in some cases oesophageal strictures (Freiche & German 2021).
The pathophysiology is multifactorial. Incompetence of the lower oesophageal sphincter (LES), obesity & increased abdominal pressure are major contributors (MΓΆnkemΓΌller 2012; Kempf 2014).
Signs of GERD include lip smacking, ptyalism, extension of head & neck while swallowing, retching, vomiting, regurgitation, grass ingestion, surface licking, dysphagia, nocturnal restlessness, & anorexia (Poncet et al. 2005, 2006; Reeve et al. 2017; Eivers 2019).
We have an ethical responsibility to prevent & minimise the negative health & welfare impacts of extreme brachycephaly as the affected animals do not enjoy all the 5 freedoms of animal welfare under human control (free
Aerogastric Disorders (AD) &
Regurgitation associated with BOAS (Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome) result from Negative Airway Pressure (NAP)
NAP= accumulation of air in the gi tract, leading to discomfort, bloating, & other symptoms.
Regurgitation= passive expulsion of food/liquid from the esophagus, often shortly after eating/drinking.
Common AD include:
1. Aerophagia (Air Swallowing) due to short nasal passages & breathing difficulties associated with BOAS. Excessive air intake while eating, drinking, or breathing leads to gas accumulation in the gi tract.
2. Flatulence- Trapped air in the gi tract leads to excessive flatulence. This is uncomfortable & is a sign of digestive disturbances. Diet plays a role & foods that are difficult to digest or cause gut fermentation exacerbate the problem.
3. Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV) a life-threatening condition where the stomach fills with gas & twists on itself, cutting off blood flow. Symptoms include severe abdominal distension, restlessness, drooling, & unsuccessful vomiting.
4. Esophagitis- inflammation of esophagus due to frequent regurgitation & the acid that may accompany it. This complicates the swallowing process & causes discomfort.
AD are due to:
1. Anatomy- a short esophagus leads to difficulty in swallowing & increased chances of regurgitation.
2. Megaesophagus- the esophagus is enlarged & lacks the muscular tone needed to move food to the stomach, causing frequent regurgitation.
3. Hiatal Hernia- part of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm into the chest cavity, which leads to regurgitation.
4. Dietary Factors- Eating too quickly or consuming foods that are difficult to digest.
5. Stenotic Nares- Narrow nostrils make it hard to breathe through the nose, leading to mouth breathing & regurgitation due to swallowed air.
6. Elongated Soft Palate- partially blocks the mouth & airway causing difficulty in breathing, which worsens regurgitation.
7. Laryngeal Collapse- The larynx
Renewed Ragnar Rides πΉ Again ! Ragnarβs spirit was always strong, but Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) forced him to leave his skateboarding πΉ career.
We are happy to report that Ragnar βVersion 2.0β has officially made a comeback & he is better than ever ! #frenchieskateboarding #skateboardingdog #skateboardingdogs #skateboardingdogsofinstagram #fastfrenchie #dogsonwheels #dogswhoskate #frenchieeverything #frenchbulldogloversβ€οΈ #lasersurgery #brachycephalicsyndrome #veterinarysurgeon
Igor has big, soulful eyes that hold the wisdom of a thousand lifetimes. Despite his lively spirit, Igor had a problem, he had a hard time breathing.
From the day he was born, Igorβs breathing was a bit off. His little chest would rise & fall with extra effort, & his breath would come out in short, wheezy gasps. Igor suffered from a condition called brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS).
His short snout, though adorable, made it difficult for him to take in enough air.
Igor, despite his struggle, was always full of energy. He loved to chase after butterflies in the garden, bark at the mailman, & snuggle up.
But there were days when breathing became too much of a challenge for Igor. On particularly warm days, when the air felt thick & heavy, Igor would lie on the cool kitchen tiles, panting heavily. His once playful spirit would dim, & his pet parentβs heart would ache to see their little friend struggle so much.
After examining Igor, it became obvious that Igor needed surgery to help open up his airways & make it easier for him to breathe.
Igorβs surgery was a success & day by day, Igor will grow stronger. His breaths will become less labored & his energy will return. Soon, he will be back to chasing butterflies & barking at the mailman, but now, there will be a new lightness to his step.
For the first time in his life, Igor will be able to run without stopping to catch his breath!
Igor will continue to live his life with the same curiosity & love he always has had, only now, he will breathe easier! #frenchieloversofinstagram #frenchienose #brachycephalic #airwayobstruction #lasersurgery #stenoticnares #elongatedsoftpalate #floridafrenchies #miamifrenchies
A blocked nose is like a fortress under siege, with mucus piling up behind the nostrils, forming an impenetrable wall.
Every time you attempt to breathe it feels like you are trying to suck air through a clogged straw.
The saying βJust breathe through your mouth, dear!β isnβt that simple!
Imagine your mouth, dry from a constant open position, making each breath feel like swallowing sandpaper. And there is no escaping the accompanying symphony of wheezes & sniffs that punctuate the air every few seconds.
It isnβt just about breathing; it is about the sense of normalcy that is stolen away by a blocked nose.
As people we will try everything. From menthol ointment under the nostrils, hoping for a miracle, to long, steamy showers, praying that the steam will break through the blockade. We even prop up with extra pillows at night, hoping gravity might assist in finding some relief.
But imagine nothing works. Each night, you lay in bed, staring at the ceiling, with a mouth dry as a desert, wishing for the simple luxury of a deep, unobstructed breath through the nose. Sleep becomes a distant memory with the battle, the urge to flip from side to side, searching for a position that would grant the tiniest breath of air.
It is amazing how something as simple as a stuffy nose can turn the world upside down.
This is what life is like for dogs who suffer from Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) & this is why we must all continue to share these very important stories ! #stenoticnares #blockednose #brachycephalicsyndrome #frenchiesofnyc #floridafrenchies #frenchiesoflosangeles #frenchiesofmiami #lasersurgery
An ELONGATED Soft Palate occurs when the soft tissue at the back of the roof of the mouth extends too far into the throat & airway.
This condition obstructs the upper airway, leading to breathing difficulties, especially after exercise & during sleep.
It is commonly associated with snoring & sleep apnea in humans & certain breeds of dogs (brachycephalic breeds like frenchies, pugs & english bulldogs).
Symptoms may include:
Snoring
Gagging or choking sounds,
particularly during sleep
Difficulty breathing,
especially during exercise or heat
Chronic fatigue or daytime sleepiness
due to disrupted sleep
Surgical intervention to reduce the length of the soft palate is known as a Staphylectomy. #lasersurgery #staphylectomy #brachycephaly #brachycephalicsyndrome #brachycephalic #frenchbulldogproblems #frenchieproblems #frenchbulliesofinstagram #frenchiesofflorida #frenchbulldogbreeders #frenchiebreeders #elongatedsoftpalate #airwayobstruction
