BOAS Surgery - Help for Dogs with Breathing Difficulties
Does your French Bulldog snore loudly, wheeze even at rest, tire quickly during walks, or tolerate heat poorly? These are not just “breed specific traits” - most often, it’s Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS).
At Dr. Nartiša Veterinary Clinic in Sigulda, we perform BOAS corrective surgeries that significantly ease your dog’s breathing and improve their quality of life.
What is BOAS?
BOAS (Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome) affects short-nosed or brachycephalic breeds - dogs with a shortened skull whose soft airway tissues have not proportionally reduced. As a result, airflow is obstructed by narrowed nostrils, an overly long soft palate, and other anatomical changes.
Most commonly affected breeds: French Bulldog, English Bulldog, Pug, Boston Terrier, Pekingese, Shih Tzu.
How to Recognize BOAS Symptoms?
- Loud, wheezing breathing or snorting - even at rest. Snoring while sleeping
- Quick fatigue during walks, reluctance to move
- Poor heat tolerance, increased panting
- Gagging, regurgitation after exercise or eating
- In severe cases - bluish mucous membranes, loss of consciousness
If your dog has several of these symptoms, do not delay a consultation. BOAS progresses over time - it does not resolve on its own, and the strain on the heart and airways only increases.
How is the surgery performed?
Evaluation
Before surgery, the veterinarian evaluates the dog’s airways and general health to determine which corrections are necessary for your dog.
Surgery
Depending on the findings, narrowed nostrils and an overly long soft palate are corrected. The surgery is performed under inhalation anesthesia with continuous patient monitoring - this is especially important for the safety of brachycephalic breeds.
Recovery
Most dogs return home the same or the next day. Full recovery usually requires about two weeks of rest - you will receive precise instructions after the surgery. Breathing improvement is usually noticeable within the first few days.
How much does BOAS surgery cost?
You will receive a precise estimate during the consultation - it depends on the dog’s weight and the extent of necessary corrections. Full price list: see all prices
Why choose Dr. Nartiša Clinic?
- Surgeries are performed by an experienced surgeon specializing in soft tissue surgery
- Inhalation anesthesia and patient monitoring throughout the surgery
- Clinic in Sigulda - easily accessible from the entire Vidzeme region
- 4.9★ rating on Google (300+ reviews)
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age is it best to perform BOAS surgery?
Surgery is usually recommended as soon as symptoms become pronounced - often as early as 1-3 years of age. The earlier breathing is eased, the less long-term strain on the heart and airways. The veterinarian will determine the most suitable time during the evaluation.
Is the surgery safe?
The risk of anesthesia is higher for brachycephalic breeds than for other dogs, which is why we use inhalation anesthesia and continuous monitoring before, during, and after surgery. The veterinarian will assess and explain the risks before the surgery.
Can BOAS resolve on its own?
No - anatomical changes do not disappear on their own, and symptoms usually worsen over time. Weight control can reduce the burden, but in cases of pronounced symptoms, surgical correction is the solution.
Is a referral from another vet needed?
No, a referral is not necessary - book a consultation by calling 29188182, and we will assess your dog’s condition on site.
Book Surgery in Sigulda
Want to book a surgery? Call or contact us, and we will find the most suitable time.
