⚡️ Scientists Created an Injection to Help Pugs and Bulldogs Breathe Normally

Australian researchers from RMIT and the biotech company Snoretox have developed a drug called Snoretox-1 that helps flat-faced dogs breathe more easily.

Through selective breeding, pugs, French bulldogs, Pekingese, Boston terriers, Shih Tzus, and even Chihuahuas developed BOAS syndrome: their skull bones shortened, but their soft tissue didn't, blocking their airways. As a result, these breeds suffer from chronic breathing issues. Nearly 90% of them suffer from breathing issues, and over half are in a clinically significant form.

💻 For over 15 years, scientists have been searching for a way to relieve breathing problems in flat-faced dogs without surgery — since anesthesia poses higher risks for these breeds due to their anatomy.

The result is a drug based on inactivated tetanus toxin. The injection is given into the geniohyoid muscle (the underside of the throat, inside the mouth). The drug improves muscle tone and keeps the airways open.

✅ Additional trials on more animals and other breeds are needed before the drug can reach the market. However, the developers say the initial results are promising.

How should we help these breeds?

❤️ — Help them with treatment
🤔 — Stop breeding them

@hiaimediaen