BOAS

Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS)

What is it?

Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) is a breed related disorder that significantly compromises the way pets breathe.

 

Brachy means shortened and Cephalic means head, so animals affected are “flat face” breeds. These dogs have skull bones that are shortened in length, giving the face and nose a pushed-in appearance.

 

Due to the shorter bones of the face and nose, the anatomy and relationship with the other soft tissue structures are altered; some of these changes can cause physical problems for the affected dog.

BOAS information image
BOAS information image
Pet Vaccinations

What is a microchip

A microchip is a small electronic chip (rice grain size) inserted/ implanted under your pet’s skin using a special syringe. It is a universal method used to permanently identify your pet. It is normally inserted in the lose skin in between the shoulder blades. Most pets tolerate it and don’t even flinch when it’s happening.

It is important to note that a microchip is not an active tracking device. The chip only contains a unique number which can then be cross referenced with the owners’ details when the chip is inserted and the animal is registered. 

The chip is “read” by using a small portable hand-held scanner which is waived over the animal. This picks up the unique number and it means that the owners’ details can then be obtained and contacted.

What are the Predisposed Breeds

    • Noisy breathing, especially on inhalation (snorting).
    • Snoring while sleeping.
    • Increased breathing effort.
    • Exercise intolerance (tiring easily).
    • Retching or gagging, especially when swallowing.
    • Nasal discharge (stenotic nares).
    • Blue tongue and gums (from lack of oxygen).
    • Fainting or collapse (loss of consciousness) – can be fatal.
    • Generally worse after exercise, excitement, excessive heat/humidity.
    • Signs worsen with obesity.

How we can help

At The Veterinary Hosptial we can diagnose stenotic nares on a routine physical exam, and suspect elongated soft palate and everted saccules based on clinical signs and history, but we can only diagnose and assess severity of the latter conditions on a sedated dog, as dogs rarely allow us to look at the back of their throats for an extended period of time, and often their tongue is in the way. A sedated upper airway examination will allow us to accurately diagnose and come up with an appropriate treatment plan (which will likely include surgery) to allow your dog to breathe easier.

What you can do

How to help minimise breathing issues at home?
  • Limit expose to heat and humidity – inside in air conditioning on hot days.
  • Make sure exercise is not too strenuous – indoors or at cooler times of day.
  • Use a harness instead of a neck collar.
  • Teach your dog to have self-control, keep them calm, train them to settle down.

More information

Find more information in these online resources: https://www.vet.cam.ac.uk/boas/about-boas/ https://www.acvs.org/small-animal/brachycephalic-syndrome/ If you plan to fly with your snub nosed dog, please read our Pet Travel section on and make sure to book an appointment for a Fit To Fly assessment

Flying a Snub-Nosed Pet?

If you plan to fly your snub nosed pet, also read our Pet Travel section and make sure to book an appointment for a Fit To Fly assessment

THE VETERINARY HOSPITAL

At The Veterinary Hospital, we understand the unique needs of flat-faced breeds and are here to help with expert care for BOAS in Dubai. If your pet shows signs of difficulty breathing, snoring, or intolerance to exercise, they may be affected by Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome. We provide thorough assessments and treatment options tailored to manage and relieve flat-faced dog breathing issues in Dubai, helping improve your pet’s quality of life. Our experienced veterinary team offers both non-surgical management and surgical solutions depending on your pet’s condition. If you’re concerned about symptoms or need a second opinion, don’t hesitate to reach out. To book an evaluation or speak to a specialist about BOAS in Dubai, please fill out the contact form below, call us, or visit The Veterinary Hospital. We’re committed to helping your pet breathe easier and live better.

Our Location

Villa 4, Al Wasl Rd

Umm Al Sheif – Dubai

Contact Us

Got Questions?

04 338 7726

Emergency

ONLY hotline

055 509 9835

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