Snoring and breathing difficulties can be common among certain breeds of dogs known as brachycephalic. The breed is characterized by dogs with short, flat faces, like pugs and English or French bulldogs, and Shih Tzus, among others.
While snoring and snorting can sometimes be cute, it can also be harmful. But, there is a fairly common surgical procedure that can help address the breathing challenges brachycephalic breeds face and it’s known as stenotic nares.
Brachycephalic Breed Health Issues
The facial structure of brachycephalic breeds can make it difficult for dogs to breathe easily. Because their faces are flattened, and their nostrils are abnormally narrow, airflow is restricted, which means dogs of certain breeds will more frequently pant, snore, and experience shortness of breath.
These types of breathing problems are often referred to as brachycephalic airway syndrome. Stenotic nares surgery is often recommended for dogs experiencing this syndrome to improve oxygenation and make breathing a little easier.
Stenotic Nares Surgery
The procedure known as stenotic nares surgery can be combined with a spay or neuter procedure, especially since it is an anatomical condition — meaning it is present to some degree in specific breeds. When combined with a spay or neuter, it just eliminates the need for a separate surgery at a later date.
And, it could decrease the overall cost of the corrective procedure if the dog only has to undergo a single surgery. At Dr. Kelly’s Surgical Unit, we would recommend that route, as we truly are mission-driven to keep the cost of pet ownership manageable.
The actual procedure to correct stenotic nares involves removing a portion of tissue on the outer rims of each nostril to allow for improved airflow. At this point, surgery really is the best treatment when this type of breathing abnormality needs to be addressed.
Benefits of Stenotic Nares Surgery
No one is really ever excited when their dog needs to undergo a surgical procedure. But, sometimes the benefits of a surgery outweigh the misery of avoiding it.
When it comes to stenotic nares and brachycephalic breed health issues, the earlier this type of corrective procedure is performed, the better. Brachycephalic breathing issues often get worse as time goes on, and younger dogs have an easier time recovering from the procedure.
Also, since the condition progresses over time, labored breathing can lead to other health conditions.
Affordable Pet Surgery
At Dr. Kelly’s Surgical Unit, we believe that pet ownership should be affordable. We specialize exclusively in surgical procedures because we know it keeps costs down and we’re able to pass that savings off to you.
If your brachycephalic breed dog is experiencing breathing issues and would benefit from stenotic nares surgery, connect with our experienced team and schedule a procedure.
Dr. Kelly’s Surgical Unit is a trusted veterinary team serving the Phoenix, Peoria, East Mesa, Queen Creek, and Tucson metro areas, with accessible locations in each market, offering highly specialized surgery, quality spay and neuter procedures, and accessible dental care for pets. Contact us to learn more about our specialized services or to schedule an appointment.
