Long walks through grassy areas are a common joy of summer, but experts warn dog owners about the health hazards grass seeds pose to their pets.
Dog owners often encounter grass seeds, the small, arrow-shaped seeds found on grass stems in gardens, parks, and fields during spring and summer. These seeds easily cling to a dog’s coat, paws, and ears due to their tiny, pointed shape.
After a walk, owners frequently remove these seeds from their dogs’ fur. However, grass seeds are more than a nuisance; they pose serious health risks, including allergic reactions, infections, respiratory issues, digestive obstructions, and organ damage.
With vet fees related to grass seeds averaging £547.761 in 2023 and a 100% increase in searches about grass seed safety over the past year, Animal Friends Pet Insurance has collaborated with Dr Samantha Webster, Director of Clinical Operations at Joii Pet Care, to highlight the dangers, symptoms, and treatments for grass seed injuries, along with tips to protect pets.
Symptoms of Grass Seed Injuries
Dogs with long or thick coats or those who enjoy running through tall grass face higher risks, but any dog can be affected. Symptoms vary depending on where the grass seed lodges.
Dr Webster advises pet owners to watch for the following signs:
– Eyes: Watery or weepy eye, pawing at the eye, intense itching, swelling, pain.
– Ears: Excessive scratching, head shaking, pawing at the ear, head tilting, sudden ear infection.
– Nose: Runny nose on one side, sneezing, pawing at the nose.
– Paws: Excessive licking or nibbling, saliva staining, swelling, lameness.
– Skin: Itchiness, hives, redness, swelling.
– Stomach: Abdominal pain or discomfort, diarrhoea, vomiting.
– Lungs: Coughing, gagging, breathing difficulties, pneumonia.
– Elsewhere: Non-healing wound, lethargy, high temperature.
Treatment varies based on the seed’s location and the severity of symptoms. Dr Webster explains that visible seeds may be removed by a vet, who might also prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection. If the seed is not visible or stuck, a CT scan may be necessary, followed by surgery to remove it.
Grooming
Dr Webster recommends daily grooming during spring and summer if dogs spend time in grassy areas. Keeping long coats clipped and trimming hair around paws and ears helps prevent seeds from attaching.
Post-Walk Checks
After walks near grass, thoroughly check your dog’s coat, ears, and paws for grass-seeds. Pay special attention to the areas between their toes and on their pads.
Avoid Long Grass
Although dogs may love running through fields, it’s crucial to keep them away from long grass to avoid injuries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
What are the symptoms of grass seed injuries in dogs?
Symptoms vary by location: watery eyes, ear scratching, runny nose, paw licking, skin redness, stomach pain, coughing, or non-healing wounds.
How can grass seeds harm my dog?
Seeds can cause allergic reactions, infections, respiratory issues, digestive obstructions, and organ damage.
What should I do if I find grass seeds on my dog?
Groom them daily, keep their coat clipped, and check their coat, ears, and paws after walks.
How can I prevent grass seed injuries in my dog?
Avoid long grass, groom your dog regularly, and check them thoroughly after walks.
What is the cost of vet fees related to seed in 2023?
The average cost of vet fees related to seeds in 2023 is £547.76.