BOAS and Pet Insurance for Pugs: What Owners Need to Know

BOAS surgery for pugs can cost thousands. Find out how pet insurance handles BOAS, what’s covered, what’s excluded, and how enrolling your pug early can protect you from big vet bills.

BOAS and Pet Insurance for Pugs: What Owner Need to Know | Photo by Joshua Fernandez on Unsplash

What is BOAS?

Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) is a condition common in flat-faced breeds like pugs. It’s caused by a combination of narrow nostrils, elongated soft palate, and other airway restrictions. BOAS can make breathing difficult and may require surgery to correct.

How Pet Insurance Treats BOAS

Because BOAS is considered a hereditary and breed-related condition, coverage depends heavily on timing and policy details.

Not covered if pre-existing: If BOAS is diagnosed (or even suspected in vet notes) before insurance enrollment, it won’t be covered.
Covered if diagnosed after enrollment: Many insurers will cover BOAS if you sign up your pug before symptoms appear and after the illness waiting period has passed.
Breed-specific exclusions: Some companies exclude brachycephalic airway surgeries entirely, regardless of timing.

What Might Be Covered

If your policy includes hereditary conditions and BOAS is first diagnosed after enrollment, coverage may include:

Surgical correction (soft palate resection, stenotic nares widening, laryngeal sac removal)
Hospitalization and oxygen therapy
Medications related to airway recovery

What Usually Isn’t Covered

Preventive or elective surgeries (e.g., widening nostrils in a puppy without symptoms)
Complications from BOAS noted before enrollment
Cosmetic procedures unrelated to airway obstruction

Cost of BOAS Surgery Without Insurance

Corrective BOAS surgery often costs $2,000–$5,000+, depending on severity, hospital stay, and anesthesia needs. For many pug parents, pet insurance can make this lifesaving procedure financially possible.

How to Maximize Your Chances of Coverage

Enroll early: Sign up your pug as a puppy or as soon as possible before any breathing issues are recorded.
Check the fine print: Confirm in writing whether congenital conditions (like BOAS) are covered.
Avoid pre-enrollment vet flags: Since any mention of breathing issues before enrollment could count as pre-existing, consider enrolling before a diagnostic exam if you suspect insurance is right for you.

For a broader look at whether pet insurance is worth it for your pug, read our article: Pet Insurance for Pugs: Is it Worth It

Final Thoughts

For pug owners, BOAS is one of the biggest health and financial risks. Pet insurance can cover it, but only under the right circumstances. The earlier you enroll, the better chance you’ll have of securing coverage.

📌 Key takeaway: If you’re considering insurance, don’t wait until your pug is already showing signs of BOAS. Acting early is the best way to ensure you’re protected.

✅ Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical or financial advice. Always consult your veterinarian and review individual pet insurance policies before making a decision.