South Downs Veterinary Referrals

25/04/2025

Have you heard of BOAS (Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome)?

BOAS is a term used to describe the anatomical abnormalities seen in flat-faced breeds like Pugs, French Bulldogs and Shih Tzus that affect breathing. This is a progressive, lifelong condition that can interfere with a dog’s ability to exercise, eat, sleep and regulate temperature.

Brachycephalic dogs often have extremely narrow nostrils and elongated, thick soft palates that can obstruct airflow. In more severe cases, the larynx may collapse, worsening respiratory effort. These dogs need to generate much higher pressures in the chest just to breathe, which can lead to secondary issues such as gastro-oesophageal reflux or hiatal hernia.

Clinical signs may range from snoring and noisy breathing to difficulty sleeping, adopting strange sleeping positions, and—at its most severe—collapse. Heat and stress can significantly worsen symptoms, and many affected dogs struggle to cool themselves down, so keeping them cool and calm is vital. A wet towel can help on hot days.

Excess weight can exacerbate the condition. In some cases, weight loss alone improves clinical signs significantly. We’re always happy to support clients with safe and effective weight loss plans.

Diagnosis includes a Functional Grading System, assessing dogs before and after a short exercise test. Grades II and III indicate clinical BOAS, often requiring management or surgery. Alongside this, we’ll examine facial structure, nostrils, soft palate, and chest to create a full clinical picture.

Early recognition and appropriate treatment can make a huge difference to quality of life. If you’re concerned about your dog’s breathing, contact our team to learn more.

www.southdownsveterinaryreferrals.co.uk

23/04/2025

Just like humans, dogs can develop cataracts, causing cloudiness in the lens of the eye and, over time, leading to vision loss or even complete blindness. While some cases have no known cause, hereditary conditions, diabetes, eye trauma, and aging are common factors 😞

Early signs of cataracts include a cloudy, greyish tint to the eye, difficulty navigating familiar spaces, and struggling to locate food and water bowls. Some types of cataracts can also cause discomfort, leading to redness and excessive eye rubbing, which may indicate inflammation.

Our Advanced Practitioner in Ophthalmology, Helen Appelboam, performs advanced cataract surgery to restore vision. Using an operating microscope, the procedure involves removing the affected lens and replacing it with a prosthetic lens, taking between 30-45 minutes per eye.

If you’ve noticed any changes in your dog’s vision, speak to your vet about a referral to our Ophthalmology team 💙🌟

22/04/2025

What is brachycephalic ocular syndrome (BOS)? 🤔

BOS is a combination of disorders which includes the protrusion of the eyeball, inability to close the eyelids and abnormally large eyelid openings. In some cases Entropion may be present, which is where the eyelid rolls inwards, causing the eyelashes and surrounding hairs to rub against the cornea (the surface of the eye), resulting in eye irritation, which in turn can lead to corneal ulceration 😥

A brachycephalic skull has very shallow orbits (eye sockets) causing the globes (eyeballs) to be prominent and exposed giving the characteristic large-eyed appearance these breeds are known for. The eyelids tend to be very long with a tendency to roll inwards causing hairs to rub on the cornea. In addition, brachycephalic breeds are predisposed to dry eye (inadequate tear production), which can lead to eye infections and corneal ulcers. Research has shown that brachycephalic breeds are 20x more likely to develop corneal ulcers than non-flat faced dogs. Corneal ulcers are painful and can lead to blinding conditions such as corneal pigmentation and corneal perforations. A check up to measure tear production, assess corneal health and eyelid conformation could help prevent this painful condition.

Treatment for these issues needs to address the causes of the issue, which may include lid anatomy, as well as the resultant corneal disease. It is highly likely that both medical and surgical management will be needed to treat the conditions associated with BOS.

During a health check, Advanced Practitioner in Ophthalmology Helen, carries out a full assessment of the patient’s eye. This includes a hands-off examination assessing eye comfort, discharge, and navigation in unfamiliar surroundings. This is followed by a hands-on neuro-ophthalmic examination which assesses vision, ocular reflexes, and cranial nerves, assessment of corneal health, tear film quality, eyelid anatomy and intraocular pressure checks 💙

21/04/2025

At South Downs Veterinary Referrals, your pet is in expert hands. Our team includes highly experienced Advanced Practitioners and rehabilitation practitioners, each with advanced certified training and decades of combined expertise in their fields 🤝

From the moment of referral, we provide seamless, advanced care with clear guidance and unwavering support. We prioritise transparent communication between our referral team, your primary vet, and you, ensuring you remain fully informed every step of the way.

If your pet requires an overnight stay, they will be cared for by our dedicated night team within our fully equipped hospitals, ensuring their comfort and wellbeing.

Whatever your pet’s needs, we are here to guide you through the process and answer any questions along the way 💙✨

To learn more about our services, visit www.southdownsveterinaryreferrals.co.uk.

18/04/2025

Meet cheeky Coco!

Her owners noticed she was starting to slow down on walks and dropping in her back legs while waiting for dinner. She was referred to our rehabilitation team and began a combination of physiotherapy and weekly hydrotherapy sessions.

Since starting her treatment, Coco has become more eager to walk and her back legs are much stronger—she’s made brilliant progress in such a short time. We’re so proud of her and can’t wait to see how far she continues to go! 🌟

15/04/2025

What does ‘brachycephalic’ really mean? 🤔

‘Brachy’ means shortened and ‘cephalic’ means head. In brachycephalic dog breeds, the skull bones are shorter, but the soft tissue remains the same—resulting in that familiar flat faced appearance and facial folds, both externally and within the nasal and oral cavities.

Popular breeds like Pugs, French Bulldogs, Bulldogs and Shih Tzus fall into this category.

Over recent decades, breeding for more extreme facial features has increased the risk of serious health problems in these dogs—from respiratory distress and airway obstruction to painful ocular conditions like corneal ulcers 😥

To learn more or refer a case, contact us at [email protected] or call 01903 947598.

14/04/2025

Meet Humphrey, he was diagnosed with bilateral patella luxation and underwent surgery on his right hind limb in June 2024. He has since been receiving hydrotherapy to support his post-operative recovery while conservatively managing his left hind limb. The focus is on building strength in the quadriceps group and maintaining healthy stifle movement.

The patella, a sesamoid bone, sits within the trochlear groove of the femur and glides smoothly as the limb extends. Luxation occurs when the patella slips out of this groove, causing lameness, often seen as a sudden skip that resolves quickly.

Grades of luxation vary from mild (grade 1) to severe (grade 4), with treatment options ranging from conservative to surgical. Rehabilitation through physiotherapy and hydrotherapy plays a crucial role in supporting recovery and preventing further complications.

Although most common in small dog breeds, patella luxation can occur in any breed and in cats, like Humphrey.

Interested in our rehab services:
Physiotherapy at Storrington & Chichester: £65 per session | Block of 8: £480 (pre-paid)
Hydrotherapy at Storrington: £55 per session | Block of 10: £500 (pre-paid)

10/04/2025

When does a red eye mean more? 🧐

A red eye can be a sign of many different conditions—some minor, others far more serious. While conjunctivitis or a small scratch can often be managed with antibiotic drops, other causes require urgent attention.

Uveitis (inflammation inside the eye) and glaucoma (raised intraocular pressure) are the two most serious conditions linked to red eye. If left untreated, glaucoma can cause blindness within 24 hours. Differentiating between these conditions is crucial, as their treatments are vastly different.

At SDVR, we use tonometry to measure eye pressure and detailed magnified examination to detect inflammation, ensuring accurate diagnosis and prompt treatment. For the best outcome, these cases must be referred quickly🙏

If your pet is experiencing an acutely red eye, don’t wait—contact us today 💙

09/04/2025

Calling all veterinary professionals! 🚨

We’re excited to invite you to our upcoming complimentary & certified CPD event with our Advanced Practitioner in Small Animal Surgery, Dr Christian Donswijk 🌟

Christian will be exploring the diagnosis and treatment of common hernias in companion animals, covering everything from pathophysiology to clinical management. This session will include:

-The pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management of umbilical, inguinal, scrotal, and perineal hernias
- Surgical techniques and treatment planning
- Reallife case studies for practical insight
- Interactive Q&A – bring your questions!

This is a great opportunity to build your surgical confidence, expand your knowledge, and engage with peers.

📅 Join via Microsoft Teams on Thursday 17th April, 12:30 – 13:30pm

Spaces are limited, so be sure to register in advance👇

We’re pleased to invite you to our next complimentary CPD event, led by Dr Christian Donswijk, Advanced Practitioner in Small Animal Surgery. Join via Microsoft Teams on Thursday 17th April, 12:30–1:30pm Spaces are limited, so don’t miss out—register your place today.

08/04/2025

Throughout April, we’ll be shining a spotlight on Brachycephalic Dog Breed Health here at SDVR.

Breeds like Pugs, Bulldogs and Frenchies are beloved by many—and they also make up a significant number of the cases we see across our disciplines.

Our team, including Advanced Practitioners Helen, Laura and Christian, will be sharing clinical insight into two of the most common conditions we see in these breeds: brachycephalic ocular syndrome (BOS) and brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS).

While not all brachycephalic dogs develop these conditions, we believe education is key—for both owners and vets. We’ll be covering what to look out for, treatment options, and why responsible breeding matters.

Follow along throughout April as we share cases, resources and guidance 💙

07/04/2025

The first hydrotherapy session is all about building confidence and ensuring your pet feels comfortable every step of the way.

We start with a gentle introduction to the treadmill, allowing them to get used to the feel of the surface while fitted with a supportive harness. The water level is gradually adjusted to match their individual needs, ensuring a stress free experience with plenty of encouragement (and treats!) 🤗💦

04/04/2025

Hydrotherapy is more than just a swim—it’s a game changer for dogs with arthritis. The warm water provides gentle, low impact exercise that relieves joint strain, soothes inflammation, and eases sore muscles. By strengthening supporting muscles, it improves mobility, enhances joint stability, and even helps with weight management in overweight dogs.

Whether it’s for pain relief, rehabilitation, or simply keeping your dog active in a safe environment, hydrotherapy is a lifeline for better mobility and a happier, healthier life 🙌

www.southdownsveterinaryreferrals.co.uk.

03/04/2025

Some of you might remember Horace from one of our previous videos. He’s been attending hydrotherapy sessions as part of his post-operative care following TPLO surgery on his right hind leg.

Now that his strength and confidence have improved, we’re beginning to gently challenge him in new ways—introducing a steeper incline and reducing the water depth in the treadmill 🌊

The incline helps build muscle and improve tone in the hindlimbs by increasing weight bearing, which encourages the muscles to work harder. Reducing the water level adds another layer of challenge, encouraging a greater range of motion through the joints and helping to restore full, functional movement 💪

02/04/2025

Did you know the cornea is just half a millimetre thick? It may not sound like much, but this delicate structure plays a vital role in your pet’s eye health for life.

As the first line of defence against infection and debris, the cornea works tirelessly to protect the eye. When compromised, even minor issues can lead to discomfort, infections, or vision loss.

At SDVR, our Ophthalmology department is fully equipped to diagnose, protect, and treat a wide range of ocular conditions, ensuring your pet’s eyes stay as healthy as possible 🙏