Advanced Practitioner in Small Animal Surgery
Postgraduate Certificate in Small Animal Surgery
BOAS assessments & surgery for flat-faced breeds
Is Your Dog Struggling to Breathe?
BOAS stands for Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome. It affects flat-faced breeds such as French Bulldogs, Pugs and Bulldogs. Many owners notice the signs long before they know the condition has a name.
Common Signs
- Noisy breathing
- Snoring when awake or asleep
- Gagging or retching
- Exercise intolerance
Heat & Stress Signs
- Overheating easily
- Struggling in warm weather
- Distress after excitement
- Slow recovery after walks
When To Seek Advice
- Breathing seems worse over time
- Your dog avoids exercise
- Sleeping is unsettled
- You are worried about quality of life
Why Choose Your Family Vets for BOAS Surgery?
Owners looking for BOAS surgery are usually trying to balance three things: safety, experience and cost. That is exactly where this page needs to be strong.
At Your Family Vets, your dog can be assessed and treated by Philip Simon, founder and clinical director, who holds a Postgraduate Certificate in Small Animal Surgery and is an Advanced Practitioner in Small Animal Surgery.
That means you are not simply booking into a general practice and hoping for the best. You are choosing an independent veterinary team with advanced surgical capability and continuity of care.
- Experienced surgical input from consultation onwards
- Independent family-owned practice
- Clear discussion of options, risks and likely benefit
- Local care without the feel of a conveyor-belt referral centre
Meet Philip Simon
Philip Simon is the founder, clinical director and lead surgeon at Your Family Vets. He holds a Postgraduate Certificate in Small Animal Surgery and is an Advanced Practitioner in Small Animal Surgery.
Philip has extensive experience in small animal surgery and has worked in both first opinion and referral settings. For BOAS cases, that matters. Owners need confidence that they are seeing a vet with genuine surgical expertise, not just a general interest.
Advanced Qualifications
Postgraduate Certificate in Small Animal Surgery and recognised Advanced Practitioner status.
Experienced Decision Making
Clear, honest advice on whether surgery is likely to help and what outcomes to expect.
Continuity of Care
Assessment, surgery planning and aftercare with a team that knows you and your dog.
What BOAS Surgery May Involve
Each dog is different, so surgery is tailored to the individual. Following assessment, treatment may involve addressing narrowed nostrils and excess soft palate tissue to improve airflow.
The aim is simple: reduce obstruction, improve breathing, and help your dog cope better with exercise, heat and day-to-day life.
1. Consultation
We assess symptoms, breathing pattern, history and whether BOAS is likely to be affecting quality of life.
2. Surgical Plan
If surgery is appropriate, we explain the likely procedure, expected benefits, risks and recovery.
3. Aftercare
You receive clear aftercare guidance and support as your dog recovers and adjusts.
Breeds We Commonly See for BOAS Assessment
BOAS is most commonly associated with flat-faced breeds. If your dog is showing breathing difficulties, it is worth getting checked sooner rather than later.
Why Owners Travel to Us for BOAS Surgery
Owners are often prepared to travel for the right surgical care, especially when their dog is struggling to breathe. Your Family Vets combines local accessibility with advanced surgical experience.
Independent Practice
A more personal service, with direct communication and continuity.
Advanced Surgical Focus
Phil’s qualifications and experience give owners confidence in decision making and treatment planning.
Straightforward Advice
We explain options clearly, including whether surgery is appropriate and what realistic improvements may look like.
Frequently Asked Questions About BOAS Surgery
What is BOAS?
BOAS stands for Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome. It affects flat-faced breeds such as French Bulldogs, Pugs and Bulldogs, causing partial airway obstruction and breathing difficulty.
How do I know if my dog may need BOAS surgery?
Common signs include noisy breathing, snoring, heat intolerance, gagging, reduced exercise tolerance and struggling to recover after activity.
Will every dog with BOAS need surgery?
No. Some dogs need monitoring and lifestyle adjustments, while others benefit significantly from surgical treatment. The first step is a proper assessment.
Who performs the surgery?
BOAS surgery at Your Family Vets is performed by Philip Simon, Advanced Practitioner in Small Animal Surgery and holder of a Postgraduate Certificate in Small Animal Surgery.
Do I need to be a registered client?
Contact the practice to discuss this. If your dog is struggling to breathe and you are seeking BOAS assessment or surgery, the team can guide you on the next step.
Do you see dogs from outside Harrogate and Knaresborough?
Yes. Owners may travel to us from surrounding areas for BOAS assessment and surgery.
