When is the best age to have BOAS surgery done?
Ideally between 6–18 months old, before permanent damage occurs, but we successfully correct adult dogs too.
Surgery • Brachycephalic Breeds
BOAS Surgery for Brachycephalic Dogs
If your French Bulldog, Pug, English Bulldog, Boston Terrier, or other flat-faced breed struggles to breathe, overheats easily, or snores loudly, BOAS surgery can be life-changing. We widen nostrils, shorten the soft palate, and remove everted saccules so your dog can finally breathe comfortably.
What Is BOAS?
Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) is a group of upper-airway abnormalities that affect short-nosed (“brachycephalic”) breeds. These dogs are born with anatomy that literally obstructs breathing from day one.
Important: it is an emergency if a pet is experiencing respiratory distress, collapse, or cyanotic gums.
Most Commonly Affected Breeds
- French Bulldog
- English Bulldog
- Pug
- Boston Terrier
- Shih Tzu
- Boxer, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Pekingese & others
Common Signs of BOAS
- Loud snoring, snorting, or stertor (even when resting)
- Exercise and heat intolerance
- Open-mouth breathing or panting constantly
- Gagging or regurgitation
- Blue gums or collapse in severe cases
What BOAS Surgery Includes
We tailor the procedure to your dog’s specific anatomy. Most patients need two or more of the following performed at the same time:
- Stenotic nares correction – widening pinched nostrils
- Elongated soft-palate resection – shortening the overhanging palate
- Everted laryngeal saccules removal
Important: Early surgery (6–18 months old) gives the best long-term results and prevents irreversible damage.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Most dogs go home the same day or after one night
- Soft food and restricted activity for 10–14 days
- No special lifelong restrictions (unlike laryngeal tie-back)
Why Choose Cascade Veterinary Clinics for BOAS Surgery?
- Surgeons who perform dozens of BOAS corrections every year
- Advanced CO₂ laser and monitoring equipment
- Compassionate, detailed communication from start to finish
- Performed conveniently at Wenatchee location