Edison Park Animal Hospital

08/29/2025

Hi everyone. Shirley wants to remind you that we are closed Monday, Sept. 1st in observation of labor day. Have a safe and fun Holiday weekend! 💕

08/27/2025

A shiny, healthy coat is often a sign of good overall health, and it starts with proper nutrition. If your pet’s fur looks dull, dry, or they’re shedding more than usual, it could be related to their diet, allergies, or an underlying health issue.

Contact us today to schedule a checkup and help your pet look and feel their best.

08/25/2025

If your pet could talk, they'd thank you for every vet visit, walk, and cuddle. You’re doing an amazing job!

08/21/2025

Dogs can detect sounds up to four times farther than we can.

If your dog isn’t reacting to noises like they used to, it could be a sign of hearing loss or another issue. A quick visit to the vet can help find the cause!

08/13/2025

As pets get older, their joints may need a little extra support 🐾 Joint supplements can help improve mobility, reduce stiffness, and keep them comfortable.

Talk to your vet about the best options to keep your senior pet moving and feeling their best.

08/11/2025

Hi everyone! Our clinic is running low on clean towels and blankets for our furry patients that depend on them for comfort, warmth, and care. From keeping recovering pets cozy after surgery to every day use, every donation makes a difference. 🐾🩷

08/06/2025

Hi everyone! If you like our doctors, service and staff please vote for us. We appreciate all of you! ❤️

Official 2025 Community Voting Awards Platform for Fort Myers, FL. Where the community votes for their favorites every year.

07/30/2025

Is your pet constantly itching, licking, or sneezing? It could be more than just a seasonal issue.

Pet allergies are common and can be triggered by food, pollen, dust, or even flea bites. Reach out to us today so we can help identify the cause and get your furry friend the relief they deserve!

07/01/2025

Sharon Powell

BRACHYCEPHALIC AIRWAY OBSTRUCTIVE SYNDROME (BAOS)

Dr. Sharon Powell

Edison Park Animal Hospital

(Article includes material from ChatGPT)

Brachycephalic airway obstructive syndrome is a common respiratory disorder that affects certain dog and cat breeds with shortened skulls and flattened faces. While these physical traits are often considered cute or desirable, they come at a significant cost to animal health. BAOS can cause chronic breathing difficulties, reduced exercise tolerance, gastrointestinal disorders and even life-threatening airway obstruction.

Common dog breeds affected include English Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, Pugs, Boston Terriers, Boxers, Shih Tzus. Common cat breeds such as Persians and Himalayans are also often affected.

BAOS is caused by a combination of anatomical abnormalities that restrict airflow in the upper respiratory tract. These abnormalities include: Stenotic Nares (narrowed or collapsed nostrils that limit airflow during inhalation), Elongated Soft Palate (the soft tissue at the back of the roof of the mouth is too long, extending into the airway and obstructing airflow to the windpipe/trachea), Everted Laryngeal Saccules (small pouches near the vocal cords that become inflamed and protrude into the airway due to increased breathing effort), Hypoplastic Trachea (a narrower-than-normal windpipe, reducing the volume of air that can pass through). These malformations cause resistance to airflow, resulting in increased respiratory effort, noise and heat intolerance.

Signs of BAOS often begin in puppyhood but worsens over time. Common symptoms include: noisy breathing, snoring or snorting (even at rest), exercise intolerance, difficulty eating or swallowing, gagging, retching, vomiting, cyanosis (blue gums/tongue during distress), collapse/fainting during exercise. Heat, high humidity, and stress can trigger a respiratory crisis.

Diagnosis typically involves a combination of: History and Physical Exam (Observation of breathing, nostril structure, exercise intolerance); Sedated Oral Exam (To assess the soft palate, laryngeal saccules); Imaging (X-rays or CT scans to assess the trachea and other internal structures); Endoscopy (in some cases, a camera is used to visualize the upper airway in better detail).

Treatment options vary depending on severity but may include weight loss, avoiding heat and stress, use of a harness instead of a collar, minimizing activity during hot and humid conditions. Corrective surgical options are often recommended to alleviate symptoms and significantly improve the pet’s quality of life. Common procedures include widening the narrowed nostrils, resecting the elongated soft palate and removing the everted laryngeal saccules. Surgical outcomes are generally good, especially when performed early.

BAOS is a lifelong condition that requires vigilant management. Dogs with advanced disease may continue to struggle, and some may develop laryngeal collapse, requiring more intensive care. With appropriate intervention and lifestyle adjustments, many dogs experience significant improvement.

06/25/2025

Some houseplants can be toxic to cats, even just a nibble can lead to serious health issues.

Popular plants like lilies, pothos, and philodendrons can cause vomiting, lethargy, and even organ failure. Keep your curious cat safe by researching pet-safe plants and keeping harmful ones out of reach.

06/21/2025

Senior dogs might move a little slower, but their hearts are just as full of love 🐶❤️

Treasure every moment with your loyal companion.

06/18/2025

We know your pets are part of the family.

That’s why we treat them with the same love and care we’d want for our own. From routine exams to urgent care, we’re here for every stage.