12/07/2024
Foxtail grasses (Alopecurus and Hordeum species) are most prevalent in southern and eastern England, where the climate and soil conditions are particularly suitable for their growth. They are commonly found in:
🔸 Agricultural Areas: Fields and pastures where they can thrive in disturbed soil.
🔸 Roadsides and Verges: These areas provide a suitable environment due to the disturbed nature of the soil.
🔸 Urban Areas: Abandoned parks and gardens or where maintenance might be less frequent.
While these grasses are more common in the south and east, they can be found throughout the UK in suitable habitats.
Foxtail grasses pose several significant risks to dogs due to their barbed seed heads, which can easily become lodged in a dog’s fur, skin, or orifices. The risks include:
🔹Skin Irritation and Infection: The barbed seeds can pe*****te the skin, causing irritation, pain, and potentially leading to infection if not removed promptly
🔹Ear Problems: Foxtail seeds can enter a dog’s ear canal, leading to severe pain, infection, and potential damage to the eardrum. Symptoms include head shaking, scratching, and ear discharge.
🔹 Nasal Issues: If a dog inhales a foxtail, the seed can lodge in the nasal passages, causing sneezing, nasal discharge, and respiratory distress. In severe cases, it might require surgical removal.
🔹 Eye Injuries: Foxtail seeds can get into a dog’s eyes, causing irritation, redness, discharge, and potential damage to the cornea, which might result in blindness if untreated.
🔹 Internal Damage: If ingested, foxtail seeds can cause internal damage to the mouth, throat, lungs, and gastrointestinal tract. Symptoms might include coughing, gagging, difficulty swallowing, and abdominal pain.
🔹 Paw Problems: Foxtail seeds can lodge between a dog's toes, causing limping, swelling, and infection.
➡️ Immediate veterinary attention is recommended if a dog shows symptoms of foxtail exposure. Preventative measures include avoiding areas where foxtails grow during peak seasons, regularly checking and grooming the dog, and keeping the dog’s coat trimmed.