Dogs and grass seeds

By VetSmiths

This year, vets have seen an increase in the number of dogs suffering with grass seeds problems – probably due to the long hot, dry days.

When dry, the sharp, pointy, barbed part of the plant known as the ‘awn’ can often become lodged in the skin, commonly between the toes, in the armpits or down ear canals. This can be incredibly painful and often requires urgent veterinary intervention.

How will I know if my pet has a problem with a grass seed?

Some symptoms you may notice include frantic shaking of the head or scratching at the ear. They may continuously lick at a paw, often following a walk in fields with long grass. Or you may notice a red, raised area of skin that’s tender when touched. Grass seeds can penetrate any area of the body, so excessive attention or worrying at an area warrants further investigation. If you spot any of these signs or suspect your pet may have a problem with a grass seed, you should contact your vet.

What can be done?

Try to prevent them from licking the area and if you have a buster collar at home, you could put this on them until the vet sees them. Your vet will give a full clinical examination of your pet and provide the necessary treatment. It may be that a light sedation is necessary, or in some cases, a grass seed may have entered the skin and popped out on their own. In these cases, medicine alone may be the solution.

Can I prevent this from happening?

Keeping fur trimmed short, especially between the toes will allow you to see if there is anything caught in this area. After each walk, give your dog a good head to toe check over and remove any burrs/seeds caught up in the fur. Be vigilant for the signs above and if in doubt speak to your vet practice for their advice.

www.vetsmiths.co.uk