At Continental Animal Wellness Center in Flagstaff, AZ, our mission is to help every pet live their healthiest, happiest life. For many brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds like pugs, French bulldogs, and Boston terriers, that journey begins with BOAS surgery.
These beloved breeds are prone to chronic breathing challenges due to their unique anatomy, and without intervention, their quality of life can be significantly impacted. That’s why we offer compassionate, expert-led care tailored specifically to these dogs’ needs, so they can breathe easier, play longer, and enjoy every moment at your side.
What is BOAS Surgery?
BOAS stands for Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome, a condition that affects breeds like Pugs, French Bulldogs, English Bulldogs, and Boston Terriers. These dogs have adorable smooshed faces, but unfortunately, that facial structure can cause chronic breathing problems due to narrowed nostrils, elongated soft palates, and other airway obstructions.
BOAS surgery is a corrective procedure that may include:
- Soft palate trimming
- Widening of the nostrils (nares)
- Removal of obstructive tissues in the airway
The goal is simple: help your dog breathe better and live more comfortably.
For a full overview of the surgical process, visit our BOAS surgery page, detailing everything from
How to Know If Your Dog Needs BOAS Surgery
Every dog is unique, but some common signs of BOAS include:
- Frequent Snoring – Even While Awake: Constant snoring or loud breathing sounds, even when your dog is alert, may signal airway obstruction.
- Labored or Noisy Breathing: Breathing that sounds strained, raspy, or wheezy – especially during rest or mild activity – is a key sign of BOAS.
- Difficulty Exercising or Intolerance to Heat: Your dog may tire quickly, avoid play, or struggle in warm weather due to limited airflow.
- Gagging or Vomiting After Eating: Obstructed airways can interfere with swallowing, leading to gagging, retching, or vomiting during or after meals.
- Collapsing or Fainting During Activity: In severe cases, lack of oxygen can cause your dog to lose balance, faint, or collapse – an urgent medical concern.
These symptoms can become more dangerous as temperatures rise, especially in Arizona. If your dog exhibits any of these signs, a consultation with our experienced veterinary team can help determine if BOAS surgery is right for them.
What Happens If It’s Left Untreated
Without intervention, BOAS can significantly impact your dog’s quality of life and lead to:
- Chronic Fatigue: Ongoing tiredness or low energy caused by difficulty breathing, even during simple activities like walking or playing.
- Heatstroke: A dangerous rise in body temperature, often triggered by poor airflow and hot weather – especially risky for brachycephalic breeds.
- Respiratory Collapse: A severe and sudden inability to breathe properly, potentially life-threatening without immediate veterinary care.
- Increased Risk Under Anesthesia: Dogs with BOAS may struggle to breathe while sedated, making surgeries riskier without proper airway intervention.
- Worsening of Symptoms with Age: Breathing problems often intensify over time, especially if left untreated, reducing quality of life as the dog gets older.
Dr. Dobbin, who leads our surgical team, puts it best:
“Knowing what it feels like to struggle to breathe for a few days, the few times I’ve had a severe sinus infection is enough for me to never wish that upon any living being. This is similar to how I perceive the BOAS surgery for breeds born with a lifelong struggle to breathe.”
How We Can Help You
🐶 Did You Know? The pug is the #1 dog in America, and one of the most commonly affected by BOAS.
Breathing issues in short-nosed breeds are more than just snoring—they can severely affect quality of life. Learn how BOAS surgery can help.
At Continental Animal Wellness Center, we approach every surgery we perform with:
- Years of experience with brachycephalic breeds
- A gentle, supportive approach to post-op recovery
- Tailored care plans for each dog and family
We don’t treat BOAS surgery as just another procedure; it’s a life-changing opportunity for your pet. Want a breakdown of what the surgery includes? Visit our BOAS surgery service page for a closer look at what we offer.
“To live is to breathe, but for some, breathing is a constant struggle. The BOAS surgery is one way I feel like I can help those breeds born with this obstacle.” – Dr. Dobbin
Real Results: Before & After
Meet Sissy:
“After having Sissy for a few months, we just assumed her breathing was normal for the breed. She snored all the time and had labored breathing on walks. Dr. B recommended soft palate surgery, and now she walks farther, breathes easier, and only snores when she’s really tired. So glad we did this for her.”
— Tabitha, Sissy’s mom
And meet Junior:
“My name is Junior Huerena. I’m a French bulldog. When I was old enough, Dr. Dobbin performed my BOAS surgery—she trimmed my soft palate and enlarged my nostrils. Now I breathe well and hardly snore at all! Thank you to everyone at Continental Wellness Center!”
— Junior’s pawrent
Breathing Shouldn’t Be a Struggle
“The ability to breathe without struggle is something most of us take for granted. BOAS surgery has made it so our brachycephalic friends can enjoy this luxury as well.” – Dr. Dobbin
If your dog is showing signs of BOAS, we’re here to help. Our compassionate, experienced team at Continental Animal Wellness Center in Flagstaff, AZ is ready to partner with you to give your pet the relief they deserve.
Schedule a Consultation Today
Ready to learn more about the procedure or see if your dog is a candidate? Explore our BOAS Surgery service page or schedule your consultation today.
Let’s talk about how we can help your dog breathe better, feel better, and live more comfortably. At Continental Animal Wellness Center in Flagstaff, we believe every pet deserves the chance to thrive, not just survive.
If your dog is struggling with breathing issues, showing signs of BOAS, or you simply want to explore your options, we’re here to guide you with compassion and expertise. Schedule a consultation today and take the first step toward helping your dog enjoy every breath, every walk, every cuddle, and more.
Frequently Asked Questions about BOAS Surgery
What breeds are most affected by BOAS?
BOAS primarily affects brachycephalic breeds with short, smushed faces such as Pugs, French Bulldogs, English Bulldogs, Boston Terriers, and Shih Tzus. These breeds are genetically predisposed to have narrowed airways.
How do I know if my dog is a candidate for BOAS surgery?
If your dog regularly snores while awake, struggles with exercise, has noisy breathing, or seems to overheat easily, they may be a candidate. A consultation with our veterinary team can help determine whether surgery is recommended.
Is BOAS surgery safe?
When performed by experienced veterinary surgeons, BOAS surgery is generally safe and effective. We take extra precautions, especially because brachycephalic dogs can have increased anesthesia risks. Our surgical team is highly experienced in these procedures.
How long is the recovery time after surgery?
Most dogs recover within 1 to 2 weeks, though some may need more time depending on the extent of the surgery. We provide detailed post-op care instructions and will monitor your dog closely throughout their recovery.
Will surgery stop my dog from snoring?
In many cases, yes! While some snoring may still occur, BOAS surgery significantly reduces noisy breathing and improves overall airflow, making a big difference in your dog’s comfort and quality of life.
Is this a one-time surgery, or will my dog need more procedures later?
BOAS surgery is typically a one-time procedure. However, depending on how their symptoms progress with age, some dogs may require ongoing monitoring or additional interventions.
What’s the best age for BOAS surgery?
Surgery is often recommended once a dog has physically matured (around 6–12 months), especially if they’re already showing signs of airway distress. Early intervention can prevent complications down the line.