Protect Your Pup: A Step-by-Step Guide to Foxtail Safety!
Outdoors is fun!
Getting out with your dog is always exciting. But while the outdoors is fun, it can also hide dangers that aren’t always easy to spot. One of these hidden threats is foxtails. These small, sharp seeds can cause serious problems for your dog if they get stuck in their fur, paws, or even inside their ears or nose.
Let’s understand the fundamentals and dangers associated with the foxtails for your canine companion.
What are Foxtails?
Foxtails also known as cheatgrass or downy brome are spiked seed heads or grass seed awns. These summer grasses start growing in spring, bloom by summer and die off in winter. These plants look a bit like a fox’s tail, with spiky seed clusters with tiny barbs.
Where You Can Find Foxtails?
Foxtails are commonly found in the Southeastern part of Australia. They are mostly found at these places:
- Hiking
- Roadsides
- Open fields
- Backyards
- Parks
- Flatlands
- Meadows
What Does a Foxtail Plant Look Like?
As the name suggests, Foxtail is named after its similarity to a fox’s tail. They grow in clusters, and you will find them in areas with lots of sunlight, as they don’t do well in shade.
Here are the three main types of foxtails:
A. Giant Foxtails
- Grow 2-4 feet tall
- Have large, drooping seed heads (1.5-8 inches long)
B. Green Foxtails
- Grow 1-2 feet tall
- Their seed heads stay upright, even though they can be as large as the giant variety.
C. Yellow Foxtails
- Grow 1-3 feet tall
- Have the smallest seed heads (0.75-6 inches) that also remain upright
Why Foxtails are Dangerous for Dogs?
Foxtails are dangerous for dogs because their sharp seeds can stick to your dog’s fur and start digging into their skin. These seeds commonly get into sensitive areas like the eyes, ears, nose, mouth, and between the toes and may cause infections.
In more serious cases, foxtails can reach deeper into your dog’s body, and affect the lungs, brain or other organs. If left untreated, foxtails can cause abscess, swelling, pain, infection, or even death. So, it’s essential to check your dog after walks to prevent pain and other repercussions.
Signs Your Dog Have Foxtail
If you suspect your dog of Foxtails, look for these common signs:
- Inflammation
- Sneezing, nasal discharge
- Drooling
- Limping on the affected leg
- Swelling around the eye
- Scratching at the ear
- Redness or open wound
How to Remove Foxtails from Your Dog?
Here’s how to safely remove foxtails from your dog:
- Use tweezers for visible foxtails: If you spot a foxtail on your dog’s fur or skin, you can carefully remove it with tweezers.
- Seek veterinary help for deeper foxtails: If a foxtail has pierced the skin or entered the ears, nose, or mouth, it’s best to take your dog to the vet.
- Avoid DIY removal from body cavities: If you try to remove the foxtails from your canine’s body, there is the chance that some parts of it may left behind, allowing the foxtail to burrow deeper. It’s safer to let a vet handle it.
Tips to Prevent Foxtails
Foxtails can be a risk to any dog. Here are some easy tips to help keep your dog safe:
- Avoid Foxtail Areas: Keep your dog away from places known for foxtails, particularly overgrown grassy areas where they tend to grow.
- Leash Your Dog: If you find your dog near foxtails, keep them on a leash to prevent them from getting close.
- Check Your Dog: After walks, thoroughly check your dog’s body for foxtails. Check on their legs, paws, ears, eyes, nose, and mouth. If you find any seeds, gently pull them out using tweezers.
- Clear Your Yard: Check your yard for foxtail plants and remove them from roots to prevent them from growing back.
- Grooming: It’s important to keep your dog’s coat short during the summer to reduce the chances of getting foxtails in their fur.
- Stay Clear of Tall Grasses: Avoid taking your dog to areas or hiking trails with tall grasses or visible foxtails.
Conclusion
Foxtail plants are dangerous and painful for dogs. So, it’s crucial to keep your pup away from these wild plants. By taking these precautions and safety measures, you can help prevent foxtail-related problems and keep your furry friend safe!