Foxtails & Spring Hazards
Spring is the perfect time to get outside with your dog to explore. Unfortunately, the warmer weather and new plant growth can spell trouble for your pet. Just like people, pets are prone to allergies from dust, plants, and pollens, but there are also a few plants like the foxtail that you should make you proceed outside with caution. For more information on a specific spring hazard and foxtails, contact Collierville Animal Clinic & Surgery Center in Collierville, TN.
What are Foxtails?
Foxtails and grass seed awns are long spiky sections found at the top of grass stalks. They get their name from their appearance, which resembles a fox tail. These spikes have upward-facing spines that protrude from the center that are designed to bury in the soil in order to plant the seeds. Unfortunately, when your pet encounters them, these spines can bury into your pet’s fur, the eyes, nose, mouth, lungs, paws, and ears.
Other Springtime Hazards
Another spring hazard that can affect our pets includes spring cleaning products, Easter treats and decorations, fertilizers and pesticides and insects and small wild animals that make their way from hibernating. All of these things have the potential to hurt your pet.
When to Bring Your Pet in
If you notice any allergy-like symptoms, it’s a good idea to get your pet checked by a veterinarian. Also, foxtail can cause excessive head shaking, pawing at their ears, whimpering when petted, head tilt, redness, limping and a host of other symptoms depending on where the foxtail has attached.
