Meet Daphne
Daphne is a happy, five-year-old black Pug who had always been healthy and full of life. However, after developing kennel cough, she began experiencing repeated episodes of breathing difficulty and noisy respiration that never completely resolved.
Finding the Cause
Following a thorough assessment, Daphne was diagnosed with Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS).
Before surgery, she underwent a B-Risk assessment and exercise tolerance test, both of which indicated she was at higher risk of complications. One factor contributing to this increased risk was that Daphne was overweight—a risk factor that could be improved before surgery.
Preparing for Surgery
Daphne’s owners were incredibly committed to giving her the best possible outcome. Working closely with their veterinary team, they helped her lose weight before surgery, reducing her anaesthetic and surgical risk and improving her chances of a smooth recovery.
The Surgery
Daphne underwent corrective airway surgery, which included:
- Shortening her elongated soft palate.
- Removing her everted tonsils.
- Widening her narrowed (stenotic) nostrils.
These procedures were performed to improve airflow and make breathing easier, particularly during exercise and in warmer weather.
The Outcome
Daphne recovered beautifully from surgery and is now breathing far more comfortably.
She’s back to enjoying life with the energy and enthusiasm every five-year-old Pug deserves, and her owners have noticed a remarkable improvement in her breathing, comfort, and quality of life.
Owner Testimonial:
“Daphne attended Brindabella Veterinary Referral Service after being referred by our regular vet to a specialist to assess Daphne for Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) surgery as a result of a bad case of kennel cough in June 2023.
Daphne’s appointment with BVRS was in August 2023 where we were advised of all risks of surgery and positive outcomes expected once Daphne had recovered. We decided it was in Daphne’s best interest to go ahead with BOAS, and commenced losing the recommended weight before surgery. During this time, BVRS contacted us regularly to check in on Daphne to track her progress to ensure she was in the best condition for surgery.
The day of surgery (November 23) was stressful but the team were wonderful with us and Daphne. Every step was communicated, before, during and after surgery.
Since the surgery, Daphne recovered quickly and is a different Pug (for the better) and is enjoying regular walks and living without any airway issues at all. A big success. I would without question do the procedure again and use no other than BVRS.
Thanks Fiona and the BVRS team.”
—Adam