Although foxtail grass seeds are very small, they can present some serious health risks for your dog. These tiny, barbed seeds become easily caught in the fur of a dog and then burrow into their skin to cause infection and more. Now, here's the lowdown on what you need to know about the dangers of foxtail grass seeds and how to protect your furry friend.
Why Are Foxtail Grass Seeds Dangerous?
1. Foxtail grass seeds are barbed; they can pierce into a pet's skin and lead to quite painful infections.
2. Foxtail grass seeds may cause serious internal damage when inhaled, ingested, or lodged in sensitive parts such as the eyes, ears, or nose.
3. These seeds are very small and usually go unnoticed until they become an irritant or an infection.
Signs Your Dog May Have a Foxtail Grass Seed Problem
Excessive Licking or Chewing This may be due to a seed stuck in their skin.
Sudden Limping. Foxtail grass seeds can be lodged between toes or in paw pads.
Head Shaking or Ear Scratching. This can occur if there are seeds in the ears and it might become very irritating.
Redness or Swelling: Watch out for sudden inflammation, mainly after walks.
How to Avoid Foxtail Grass Seed Problems
1. Stay Away from High-Risk Areas. Avoid areas with long grassy vegetation, particularly during the late summer periods when foxtail grass seeds are abundant.
2. Regular Grooming: Mange the length of the coat in peak season. Regular brushing does much to remove all those seeds before they become a problem for the dog.
3. After the Walk: Check over your dog after walks for overall condition, and specifically check paws, ears, face.
What to Do if You Find a Foxtail Grass Seed
1. Do Not Pull It Out Yourself. If there is a savanna seed implanted in your dog's skin, then rush to the vet. Improper pulling may cause parts of seeds to remain under skin causing infections.
2. Visit the Vet Immediately. A professional can safely remove the seed and treat any infections.
3. Monitor for Signs and Symptoms. Even if you do not observe a seed, even when your dog starts to manifest at all with symptoms like the ones stated here, you should contact the vet.
Final Thoughts. Although foxtail grass seeds are small in size, their problems can be enormous. Consistently being vigilant and observing the precautions is the best guarantee to ensure that your dog remains safe from these niggling ails. Always check your dog after outdoor excursions and contact your vet if there's even a whiff of suspicion. Keeping your dog safe and healthy will allow both of you to enjoy your summer walks!