A Seasonal Peril: Protecting Your Pup From Foxtail Grass Seeds

Summer is here, and with it comes the usual list of concerns for dog owners: hot pavement, fleas, and ticks. But did you know there's a third, often overlooked, seasonal hazard that can cause just as much trouble? This humble grass seed can be a real pain for your pup if you're not careful.

Foxtail grasses, with their barbed seeds, can be very dangerous for dogs. These seeds can easily become lodged in a dog's skin, ears, eyes, nose, and even lungs, leading to infections, abscesses, and potentially serious health issues. Dog owners need to be aware of the risks and take preventative measures, especially in areas where foxtail grasses are prevalent.

As the weather warms up, so does the risk of a sneaky summer hazard: grass seeds. These tiny seeds, also known as awns, can get into your dog's coat and cause a lot of trouble. They can burrow into your dog's ears, nose, or paw pads, and once they pierce the skin, they can travel deeper into the body, leading to infection and/or an abscess.

To help you and your dog stay safe this season, here are some quick tips:

Check Your Dog After Every Walk. Make it a habit to check your dog from head to toe, especially after walks in grassy areas.

Focus on Key Areas. Pay special attention to their paws (between the pads and toes), ears (inside the ear flap), eyes, and nose. Also check their armpits, groin, and belly.

Remove Seeds Immediately. If you spot a seed, use tweezers or a fine-toothed comb to gently remove it before it can burrow deeper.

Watch for Warning Signs. If your dog is persistently shaking their head, scratching at an ear, or chewing at their paws, it could be a sign that a grass seed has lodged itself somewhere it shouldn't.

If you suspect a grass seed is causing your dog discomfort or if you see any swelling or sores, contact your vet immediately. A little vigilance can save your pup from a lot of pain and save you from an unexpected vet bill.

I hope you found this information helpful!

Jill Kudera: CPDT-KA Certified Professional Dog Trainer

Licensed and Insured

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Canine and Feline CPR and First Aid Certified

---

Piped Piper Dog Training offers one-to-one dog training in your home. Piped Piper Dog Training is now offering Virtual Sessions #BainbridgeIslandDogTraining #PoulsboDogTraining#DogTrainer #PrivateDogTraining