Brachycephalic Blaze's road to recovery

In June 2026, Blaze, the French Bulldog, was handed over to our Glasgow Rehoming Centre at five years old. His owner sadly no longer had time to look after him due to a breakdown in a relationship and leaving Blaze alone for long hours. 

Once in our care, his rehoming was paused whilst our vet team investigated his health and what he needed as a brachycephalic dog.

Struggling to breathe

During his intake inspection by the Glasgow vet team, they found Blaze had three elements of brachycephalic conformation issues. He ranked as BOAS grade 2 on a scale of 0-3 for severity. Ranking grade 2 or 3 means dogs need to be considered for surgery or, unfortunately, potential euthanasia because they are clinically affected by excess soft tissue in their nose and throat. 

This means dogs like Blaze struggle to breathe in everyday situations like exercise or warm weather. Thankfully, the vet team identified Blaze as a suitable candidate for BOAS surgery.

In July 2026, Blaze had the surgery at a local vet practice where intensive post-operative care could be provided. During the BOAS surgery, he had three different procedures on his throat and nose; this helped open up his airways to make it easier for him to breathe.

“BOAS surgery is a high-risk procedure, and recovery can be high-risk too. He was on multiple medications post-op and had regular post-op checks.”  

Spinal issues and lameness

When reviewing initial X-rays, vets also noticed some other conformation issues in Blaze’s spine and legs that are a consequence of selectively breeding for the brachycephalic conformation. Blaze was diagnosed with spinal deformities including hemivertebrae (incomplete growth of the spinal bones) and sclerosis (hardening) of the spine.

Blaze also suffered from intermittent lameness on his hind legs due to a luxating patella, which was assessed as mild. He was put on medication and started physiotherapy upon being diagnosed in early August – this is being monitored to ensure he gets the best care possible.

“It is unknown what future surgeries may be needed, but there is a possibility for further treatment and care regarding his conformation issues that will most likely incur further costs. He also requires lifelong pain medication,” added the vet team.

Since surgery, Blaze has coped well with his post-operative care and has been good with vet handling. To ease his transition, his handler is also working closely with him to help build his confidence around dogs.

They conclude that since surgery, Blaze can enjoy a better quality of life; “He’s a lot brighter and happier, he’s more active, really enjoying sniffing on his walks more, and he’s been spotted sleeping in the kennel as he’s able to relax more easily.”