Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Breathing problems in French bulldogs with slipped discs
By Foster, Emma et al.·Published in The Veterinary record·2023·Royal Veterinary College, United Kingdom·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Respiratory compromise in French bulldogs presented with intervertebral disc extrusion.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A group of French bulldogs with intervertebral disc extrusion (IVDE), a condition affecting their spine, were found to have breathing problems. About 20% of these dogs experienced respiratory issues, which could lead to serious symptoms like turning blue or collapsing. This highlights the importance of monitoring breathing in these dogs when they are treated for IVDE. While some dogs recovered, the study emphasizes the need for careful management of their respiratory health during treatment.
People also search for: French bulldog breathing problems · intervertebral disc extrusion treatment · IVDE in dogs symptoms
Abstract
BACKGROUND: French bulldogs hospitalised for the management of intervertebral disc extrusion (IVDE) are frequently affected by respiratory compromise, typically brachycephalic-associated upper respiratory obstruction and/or aspiration events. We evaluated the occurrence of such respiratory compromise events in French bulldogs presented to two referral hospitals. METHODS: Clinical data for French bulldogs diagnosed with IVDE were retrospectively collated, including severity of neurological deficits, neuroanatomical localisation, diagnosis, details of respiratory compromise, treatment and outcome. RESULTS: A total of 306 dogs diagnosed with IVDE were included. Sixty dogs (19.6%) experienced respiratory compromise, of which 31 dogs (10.1%) progressed to cyanosis, collapse or respiratory arrest. LIMITATIONS: The study was limited by its retrospective nature. Furthermore, the duration of hospitalisation was not evaluated and the decision for euthanasia was often multifactorial. CONCLUSION: One in five French bulldogs presented with IVDE experienced respiratory compromise. The detrimental welfare effects of this warrant further discussion.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37938865/