The Foxtail plant is a grass-like weed, which usually grows in grassland areas. It is pretty common to spot them along trails and roads, especially California. Every pet owner should be aware of the harmful effects of Foxtail plants on the health of a pet, since it is known to be risky, especially to dogs. Knowing the danger it can pose and what to look out for can prevent your dog from serious harm. Below are some of the main things to know about Foxtails.
Risk and Symptoms
Have you ever had to deal with a pet that was suffering from an encounter with Foxtails? If not, you’ve been very fortunate. When it comes to Foxtails, one thing that should be noted is that the seeds do not break down inside your dog’s body. A Foxtail, which is embedded, can lead to a serious infection. Why? Because Foxtails are known to travel. They can migrate from the inside of the nose of your dog and eventually reach the brain. Foxtails can be inhaled or penetrate through the skin, and then perforate a lung. If left untreated, a Foxtail can impact sensitive organs causing them to fail.
During the summer months, when Foxtail plants start drying out the seeds break into small barbed segments that can move into the skin and eventually cause infection or abscess. Embedded Foxtails can also cause discharge, swelling, and death. So what should you do if you suspect your dog may have encountered a Foxtail? You should contact a veterinarian as soon as possible. The earlier you catch a Foxtail problem with your dog the better chance for recovery.
Checking your dog for Foxtails periodically can greatly help the health of your furry friend. Some of the parts that should be checked are the feet, ears, nose, eyes, and genitals. Foxtails are usually embedded between tender toes. A pet owner should check for Foxtails if your dog is
- Continuously licking an area
- Limping
- Has swelling
- Shaking its head
- Scratching constantly at an ear
All of the above symptoms could be a sign of a Foxtail. Sometimes it may be deep inside the ear canal and it may not be seen. In this case, a veterinarian should look at the dog using a special scope.
Discharge, squinting, swelling, pawing, and redness may all be indications that your dog has a Foxtail that is lodged in the eye. Seeking veterinary care immediately, in this case, is necessary. If there is discharge from the nose or if your dog is sneezing intensely and frequently, a Foxtail may be lodged in the nasal passage. Foxtails can also lodge themselves in the genitals. If your dog persistently licks its genitals, it could be a Foxtail related complication.
Tips for Preventing Foxtail Complications
All dogs can get Foxtails in the mouth, eyes, ears, and nose. Dogs with curly hair and long ears are more prone to Foxtail complications. Complications related to Foxtails can be prevented by examining the coat of your dog during Foxtail season, which is mostly from May through December, especially when the dog has been walking in open fields. Your dog should be brushed occasionally while looking for pointy Foxtail awns in its fur. The ears and face of your dog should be checked regularly for Foxtails. Looking around and in the gums and mouth should also not be overlooked.
The paw pads, especially between the toes, should be carefully checked. Tweezers can be used to remove a Foxtail, which can easily be reached. If it is deeply embedded or if the area around is either swollen or red, a veterinarian should be contacted right away.
Keeping your dog safe from Foxtails should be prioritized. The avoidance of Foxtail exposure is the ideal and most recommended foolproof prevention. Any Foxtail plants found in the yard should be pulled out. Trimming your dog’s hair during the Foxtail season is also recommended. Another effective way of avoiding Foxtail exposure is keeping the dog out of grassy, overgrown areas. If you are a dog owner and want to help ensure your dog’s safety when it comes to Foxtails, hiring professional dog walking service in San Diego to take care of your dog is a smart move. A professional dog walker will be fully aware of the dangers of Foxtail plants and how to avoid them. Focusing on all the factors elaborated on above will ensure that your dog is safe for years to come!