A Boca Raton veterinarian is using advanced laser technology to help French bulldogs and other flat-faced breeds breathe more comfortably, according to a Local 10 News Animal Advocate report by Jacey Birch.
Dr. Boaz Man treated Bronco, a 2-year-old French bulldog whose loud, snoring breaths had become a daily problem. Man said the dog’s nose is short and flat and lacks the frontal sinuses found in dogs with longer noses. He said the condition, called brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome, or BOAS, tends to worsen with age, leading to coughing, open-mouth breathing and trouble in heat.
The procedure takes about 60 minutes and uses a carbon dioxide laser to remove tissue blocking the throat and nostrils. Man said the laser helps reduce bleeding, swelling and pain. During Bronco’s surgery, he removed a flap of tissue from the throat and widened both nostrils.
Man has performed the surgery for about five years and now teaches other veterinarians his technique. The report said the procedure is covered by pet insurance.
Bronco’s owner, Michael Gonzalez, said he hopes the dog will have many more healthy years. Man said he hopes the approach will help more dogs enjoy a better quality of life.
