It’s Foxtail Season!
Foxtails are dry weeds often found along paths, trails, in parks, and even in your own backyard. Unfortunately, foxtails can be a real problem for your furry friend because they are so small and can easily become embedded between their toes and paw pads. When dogs lick their paws, it can push the foxtail even deeper, causing irritation, inflammation, infection, and swelling. It's important to watch for foxtails and remove them as soon as possible to eliminate discomfort or health issues for your pet.
Every year, veterinarians treat dogs and outdoor cats suffering from foxtails. Foxtails are grass-like weeds that grow throughout California and North America. They are characterized by their distinctive seed heads, which resemble bushy tails or foxtails, hence the name. Although they may seem harmless, foxtails can pose significant dangers to dogs. Wise and Wonderful Integrative Veterinary Center, your local Santa Rosa vet, provides essential information about foxtails and the risks they can pose:
Foxtails have barbed bristles that allow them to burrow and attach themselves to surfaces, making them difficult to remove once they come into contact with an animal's fur or skin.
Dogs can come into contact with foxtails while walking or playing in areas where these weeds grow. The most common entry points for foxtails are the paws, ears, eyes, nose, and genital areas of dogs.
Foxtails can result in adverse health conditions for dogs. The barbed bristles can penetrate the skin, leading to localized infections, abscesses, or cellulitis. If inhaled, foxtails can cause respiratory problems. When ingested, they can lead to gastrointestinal obstructions.
Paw injuries: Foxtails can easily penetrate the skin between a dog's toes or paw pads, causing swelling, pain, and infection. Dogs may exhibit limping or excessively licking their paws if a foxtail is embedded.
Ear problems: Foxtails are notorious for causing problems in a dog's ears. They can enter the ear canal and migrate deep inside, leading to irritation, infection, and severe discomfort. Dogs may shake their heads, scratch their ears, or exhibit signs of pain.
Eye issues: If a foxtail comes in contact with a dog's eye, it can cause corneal ulcers, conjunctivitis, or other eye infections. Symptoms may include redness, excessive tearing, squinting, or pawing at the affected eye.
Nasal problems: When a dog sniffs or inhales foxtails, they can become lodged in the nasal passages, leading to sneezing, nasal discharge, nosebleeds, and breathing difficulties.
To protect your dog from foxtails, avoid walking or playing in areas where they are prevalent. Keep your dog on a leash and stay on well-maintained paths in such areas. Regularly check your dog's paws, ears, and coat for foxtails, especially after spending time outdoors.
If you find a foxtail on your dog, remove it carefully. Use gloves and tweezers to pull it out gently, making sure not to break it. If you suspect a foxtail has entered your dog's ear, nose, or eye, seek veterinary attention immediately.
If your dog shows any signs of foxtail-related issues, such as swelling, pain, discharge, or behavioral changes, consult a veterinarian promptly. They can thoroughly examine, remove foxtails, and appropriately treat complications.
Remember, foxtails can be a significant concern for dogs, and it's crucial to be vigilant, take preventive measures, and seek veterinary care promptly if needed. Call Wise and Wonderful — 707-546-4646 — to make a wellness appointment to ask about foxtail injury prevention, or call us if you have concerns about your dog’s health.
