Frenchie's Phenomenal Transformation

Authored on: 17 June 2025
A few months ago, we shared the story of Bonnie, a French Bulldog who came into our care in desperate need of help.
She had a severe case of BOAS (brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome), a condition caused by the shape of her skull, which made it dangerously hard for her to breathe. Her nostrils were extremely narrow (a condition called stenotic nares), and the tissues at the back of her throat were obstructing her airway. Every breath was a struggle, as you can see in our original appeal video.
It was the worst case our vets had ever seen.
Without urgent surgery, Bonnie wouldn’t survive. Even a mild rise in temperature could put her life at risk, and summer wasn't far away. She couldn’t walk far, couldn’t play, and would often gasp for air. Watching her fight just to breathe was heart-breaking.
We launched an urgent appeal to raise the £1,000 needed for her surgery, and thanks to your compassion and kindness, you made it happen.
Bonnie had surgery to widen her airways and reduce the tissue blocking her throat. It was a delicate and serious operation, and Bonnie struggled to come round from the anaesthetic, but thanks to the expert care of her vet team, she pulled through! Watch her surgery update video here.
After gentle rehabilitation, short walks, and lots of love, Bonnie began to breathe freely for the first time in her life and was obsessed with sniffing things, as you can see in her recovery update video here.
And now, we’re thrilled to share her happily ever after!
Bonnie was adopted by a wonderful family who absolutely adore her. They’ve shared that she’s now full of life and loves her walks, especially when she gets to say hello to one of her neighbours who she has charmed into giving her treats! She’s built a beautiful bond with her new family, is firm friends with their elderly cat, and is living her very best life.
This is what your support makes possible. From struggling to breathe, to living life to the full, Bonnie’s story is one of transformation, resilience, and joy.
Thank you for giving her the second chance she so desperately needed.