Compassionate Care for Pets & Their Families. In 1997 Gate City Animal Hospital achieved the highest level of veterinary excellence.
05/08/2025
Opal wants everyone to be safe during warmer days in dogs that are (have a short-smooshed nose). These dogs are unable to move air and exchange heat during breathing/panting like a normal dog. This leads to dangerous heat stroke even if the temperature is in the 60-70s!!! YIKES!
Opal had surgery when she was younger to open her nares to allow her to breath easier. She was evaluated for a long soft palate and everted tonsils and saccules which were not a problem for her so surgery was not required on these structures.
If your dog makes noises when breathing, snores, or overheats/exercise exhaustion quickly; they may need this surgery.
During warmer month, these dogs should NEVER be left outside. Short walks in the shade or during the cooler hours of the day. Try to avoid walking on hot pavement (walk in the grass/shade) as the pavement will elevate their body temperature just by walking on it (and can burn their feet too). Provide lots of water and a quick exit to the a/c if needed.
