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Posted on 02/11/2016

Protecting dogs from grass seeds

Protecting dogs from grass seeds

Now that it’s lighter later and the sky is clear it’s a real pleasure to take my furry partner in crime out for her daily walk. Thankfully we’re past the winter winds and wet weather that left me looking like I’d done a round in the swimming pool rather than the park. She doesn’t have to guilt me now with her big puppy eyes and lay her head on my knee beseechingly until I give in! 

But there’s always a catch and in spring and summer there are different hazards for your dog. Now it’s time to watch out for grass seeds, which are now out along pathways, in overgrown areas and in bushland. With their sharp tip, grass seeds can easily pierce your dog’s skin and become firmly lodged due to their fish hook style bristle. 

My fluffball loves to rub herself on her back when at the park, like it’s an itch she can never quite scratch at home. Afterwards I run my fingers through her coat to make sure nothing has caught before she snuffles off after the next fascinating smell. 

Typically grass seeds catch on your pet’s coat after a walk or play through long grass; but at this time of year when you get home after any walk you should run your fingers through their coats and check their feet and ears just in case. Shaggy dogs are particularly at risk as grass seeds lodge easily in their coat before moving on to pierce the skin.
Image right: No one wants their dog to have to wear the dreaded cone.

grass seed
A grass seed. Image source : Essendon Vet

 

None of this is a drama though if you take some simple precautionary steps. 

  • Keep weeds and grass in your yard under control – spray and mow regularly.
  • Avoid walking your dog through long grass where possible.
  • Inspect your dog all over after a walk, in particularly checking the ears, under the tail and between and under the toes.
  • Groom your dog regularly, every few days or sooner if it is a long haired breed.
  • Keep hair on your dog’s feet clipped and under control. 

Embedded grass seeds cause serious problems and need veterinary attention. If your dog starts licking, chewing or scratching a particular area repetitively take them in for treatment ASAP as the sooner it is detected, the easier it is to remove the seed. 

With these few simple precautionary steps you and your best mate can relax and go on and enjoy a long walk in the spring sunshine.

-Em from Look Local WA