Elongated Soft Palate

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                      General Information



The soft palate is the rear, softer portion of the roof of the

mouth.  Occasionally dogs are born with an abnormally long soft

palate that covers the opening to the windpipe to various

degrees.  The elongated palate eventually becomes swollen and

inflamed, and further impairs breathing.  This condition is most

common in dogs with pushed-in noses, such as Pekingese, Pugs,

Boston Terriers and Bulldogs.



Signs of elongated soft palate include difficult and/or noisy

breathing, frequent gagging or choking, difficult swallowing,

and coughing after eating or drinking.



The condition can be corrected by surgical shortening of the soft

palate.



                 Important Points in Treatment



1.  Feed soft foods for ____ days after surgery.  All food and

    water should be at room temperature when offered.



2.  Activity should be restricted for ____ days after surgery.

    Keep your pet away from situations that cause excitement or

    barking.  Some pets require tranquilization during recovery.



3.  Give all the medication as directed.  Call the doctor if you

    cannot carry out any prescribed treatment.



4.  Remove your pet's collar for ____ days following surgery.



        Notify the Doctor if Any of the Following Occur:



    * Your pet refuses to eat.



    * Your pet gags or vomits after eating or drinking.



    * Your pet coughs up blood or bleeds from the mouth.



    * Your pet has dark or tarry bowel movements.



    * Your pet's general health changes.



    * Your pet seems lethargic or depressed.