WICHITA, Kan. (KWCH) – A frequent warning from veterinarians this time of year is an urgent reminder to keep a close eye on your dog. Wichita-area clinics say they’ve seen a massive infestation this year of “foxtail” grass awns, tiny, sharp seeds that can cause discomfort and severe pain for dogs.
Grass awns can get into your dog’s paws, mouth, eyes, and ears, and your dog may even inhale them after spending some time playing outside.
At Solomon Veterinary Clinic in Wichita, registered veterinary technician Drew Cooley said his clinic treats almost daily patients, mostly four-legged ones, who are plagued by grass awns embedded under the pads of their toes or under the skin. Owners may notice the problem when they see their dog limping. The grass awns can cause infections and wounds.
Cooley advises pet owners to take their dog to the vet as soon as possible if they notice any wounds or signs of infection, and to check the paw pads, especially under the toes and nails, after spending time outdoors.
“We sometimes have to sedate the dog so it’s not painful to remove it. We usually make an incision in the area and then dig around to find the grass awns that are hiding in between. These thorns really love to dig and I’ve seen them reach up into the top of the foot,” Cooley said.
Cooley said she checks her dog every night for grass awns.
“Every time he comes home from outside, he loves to run around outside, so I usually find about three a night and try to find a spot that barely touches his fur so it doesn’t spread any further,” she said.
Keeping your dog’s coat and the hair around his legs trimmed can also help.
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