Watch out for grass seeds this Summer and Spring
Watch out for grass seeds this Summer and Spring as they can lead to nasty infections in your pets.
Grass seeds often lodge themselves into the paws, ears and eyes of dogs. They can also affect cats or other pets which enjoy frolicking in grass.
Early recognition of a possible grass seed problem can make treatment more straight forward.
When grass seeds attack
Grass seeds will generally start their journey when they get caught in your dog's coat during a walk or play in long grass. From there, they are able to penetrate the skin and if undetected, can travel to various areas of the body. Grass seeds carry infection through the skin and into the body and will generally cause a painful swelling. An abscess in your dog may occur.
Symptoms to look out for
- Swelling, often with a ‘weeping’ hole
- Excessive licking or chewing of toes and feet
- Shaking head or scratching ear
- Ears are painful to touch ear
- Squinting or rubbing eye
- swollen eye with or without discharge
It is important to be vigilant during the late spring and summer months when there is a greater risk of grass seed problems.
How to prevent grass seed infections
- Keep your grass and weeds under control at home with regular maintenance.
- Avoid long grass when taking your pet for a walk.
- Keep long-haired dogs groomed, particularly around their feet and ears.
- After each walk, inspect your dog and remove any grass seeds. Remember to check in between and under toes and ears.
When to visit your vet
Make an appointment to see us immediately if you suspect a grass seed problem. The earlier the problem is detected, the better chance you will have of finding the grass seed before it causes further problems or becomes very difficult to locate.