Meet Dudley: How a Brave Bulldog Overcame Cherry Eye and Breathing Challenges

Meet Dudley Napoleon, or Dudley for short!

This lovable bulldog with a heart of gold has a face that’s nothing short of charming. Recently, Dudley had a few health hurdles to hop over, as his devoted owners noticed his eyes and breathing needed a little TLC. He was diagnosed with “cherry eye” in both eyes—a condition where the third eyelid gland slips out of place, creating a red, cherry-like bulge. It’s not uncommon in bulldogs, but leaving it untreated can cause irritation and even dry eyes. Our board certified ophthalmologist, Dr. Laura Barnes, recommended double cherry eye surgery to help restore his comfort and Dudley was ready for the procedure with his signature bravery (and, we suspect, a little help from all the treats waiting for him!).

First came the cherry eye surgery, where the EVS team skillfully repositioned each of his eye glands back into place. This not only improved his eye health but also helped prevent any future irritation or dryness. With his eyes bright and clear, Dudley was sent home and started his recovery with plenty of snuggles and a few extra naps. Dudley’s journey with the team at Evolution Veterinary Specialists doesn’t stop there! Bulldogs, with their distinctive short muzzles and adorable wrinkles, are prone to specific breathing challenges due to their brachycephalic (flat-faced) anatomy. Here are some of the issues that Dudley was facing:

1. Stenotic Nares (Narrow Nostrils): Many bulldogs are born with extremely narrow nostrils, which restrict airflow and make breathing more difficult. This can cause them to breathe heavily even when resting. 

2. Elongated Soft Palate: The soft palate (the soft tissue at the back of the roof of the mouth) in bulldogs is often longer than in other dogs. This excess tissue can partially obstruct the airway, making breathing more labored, especially when they’re excited or active. 

Our board certified surgeon, Dr. Mat O’Donnell stepped in to help everyone, (but most importantly Dudley), breathe a sigh of relief. By widening his nostrils and resecting some of that soft palate, Dudley can breathe easier and enjoy all his favorite activities with even more energy.

Now, with both surgeries behind him, Dudley is back to his happy, floppy self, waddling around and breathing better than ever. His journey reminds us of the power of good veterinary care and a little patience—because now, Dudley can greet every new day with a clear-eyed, deep-breathing joy! The team at EVS couldn’t be happier to see him thriving, knowing that those two surgeries gave him the comfort and health he deserves.