Dog owners are being urged to make a simple check this summer every time they take their dogs for a walk. The warning comes as temperatures rise, and you need to be more vigilant. According to the Pet Health Club, grass seed season is upon us, which is why pet owners need to be careful and complete one simple task after every dog walk.
In an explainer video, posted on TikTok, the presenter said grass seeds get stuck in paws, ears, eyes and toes, so it's important to check your pets after they've been outside. He said: "So check all these areas after walks and brush your dog down.
"The grass seed usually finds its way out of the body but, if it doesn't, it will require surgery to remove. If your dog shows any of these symptoms speak to your vet."
The warning comes as people are starting to spend a lot more time outdoors in the sunny weather, and it was stressed it's an important check to make. It doesn't take long to do, and it's a vital step to take to keep your dog healthy.
If you didn't know, grass seeds can be harmful to dogs because they can cause irritation, infection and even internal damage if they become lodged. They can be found in the skin, ears, eyes, paws and other areas too.
Grass seeds are little, reproductive structures produced by different grass species. They are often located at the top of long grass stems, and are normally found in meadows and woodlands.
Though they are, in some cases, a source of food for animals and birds, they can also be harmful. Sometimes the seeds, particularly those with awns (stiff, barbed hairs), pose harm to animals, especially dogs.
This is because they can easily attach to fur and lead to injuries. Due to the fact that they have sharp, pointy ends, they can easily pierce the skin and burrow into tissues.
If they embed in the skin, they can then travel through the body, and potenitally cause internal issues such as infections, abscesses and organ damage. Infection can be caused as they carry bacteria.
Signs that a dog may be experiencing the issue include excessive licking or pawing, limping, head shaking, sneezing, coughing or rubbing the eyes. Often surgical removal may be required to address grass seed issues, together with antibiotics or other medications.
There are a few things you can do to try and prevent grass seeds from irritating or injuring your dog. This includes regularly inspecting their fur, especially between the toes and around the ears.
If you find any seeds, it's important to remove them. You could also avoid walking in areas where there is long grass, and you could also trim your dog's fur around the feet and ears, particularly during warmer months.
After every walk, it's important to check your dog's fur - give eveywhere a good inspection to ensure they haven't been able to sneak in anywhere. Brushing and grooming your dog's coat can also help to remove seeds that are stuck to fur.
If you ever find a seed, ensure you remove it quickly and carefully with a tweezers. It's vital not to leave a trace of it behind.
For those who are concerned their dog may be suffering with grass seed issues, contact your vet immediately. They'll be able to best advise what to do next.
