The Dangers of Grass Seeds

During the summer months grass seeds present a number of dangers to our dogs. Some more severe than others but there are a few simple things we can all do to help keep our best friends safe.

What are the main dangers of grass seeds?

By design grass seeds are shaped in such a way as to make it difficult for them to drop off or be removed once they are attached to your dog. They can become lodged almost anywhere with the most common places being eyes, ears, pads, nasal passage, armpits and groin.

What to look out for?

Nose: Bloody discharge or excessive mucus. Sneezing or rubbing of the nose and face.

Eyes: Swelling, redness and watery eyes. Your dog may try to rub the affected area.

Ears: The ears or surrounding areas may become sore to the touch. Head shaking, loss of balance and excessive scratching.

Paws and Pads: Limping, licking between his pads or toes. Inflammation and swelling.

Armpits and Groin: Limping, licking the affected area. Inflammation and swelling.

Left unidentified and untreated grass seeds that have penetrated your dog can cause significant and long lasting health issues.

What can I do?

Unless you plan to keep your dog inside during the summer months there is always a risk of grass seed injuries but you can reduce the risk. We recommend that after a walk you simply check your dog over to ensure there are no seeds attached or inserted in any of the high risk areas we noted above. This is far easier if your dog has a well maintained coat which is why regular visits to your groomer are so important.

Just this summer alone we have identified 4 dogs that had imbedded seeds that required a visit to the vets to be removed!