Harrisons vet urgent warning to dog owners to check after every walk

The practice has treated numerous dogs with grass seeds lodged in their ears, noses, paws and even under their tails, causing severe irritation, infection and pain.

Since May, Harrison Family Vets’ 10 practices have treated more than 460 cases linked to grass seeds.

Grass seeds (Image: Harrison Vets)

Grass seeds have pointed, barbed tips that let them move in one direction through a dog’s coat and, once caught in fur, burrow into the skin or body openings, often needing removal by a vet under sedation or general anaesthetic.

Grass-seed problems rise in summer when grasses flower and produce seeds; warm, dry weather makes seed heads break away more easily and cling to passing dogs, while long grass, meadows and roadside verges pose the biggest risk.

James Harris, group clinical director from Harrison Family Vets, said: “Grass seeds are always a problem in the summer months, but we’ve seen a noticeable increase in cases this year, which could be due to recent high temperatures combined with very little rainfall.

“Whilst they may look harmless, these tiny seeds can cause an incredible amount of discomfort and, if left untreated, can lead to serious infections or even migrate deeper into the body.

“Unfortunately, it’s almost impossible to stop dogs exploring grassy areas altogether and most love running through long grass, especially during the summer. However, there are simple steps owners can take that can dramatically reduce the risk.”

Harrison Family Vets is urging owners to:

• Thoroughly check their dog’s coat after every walk, paying particular attention to the ears, paws, between the toes, armpits and under the tail.
• Brush their dog’s coat regularly to remove any grass seeds before they become embedded.
• Trim excess hair around the paws and between the toes if appropriate, especially for long-haired breeds.
• Be alert for signs that a grass seed may have become lodged, including persistent head shaking, excessive licking of a paw, limping, repeated sneezing, swelling, redness or sudden discomfort.

Owners should not try to remove deeply embedded grass seeds themselves, as they could make the injury worse, and should seek veterinary advice quickly if their dog keeps shaking its head, limping or sneezing, or appears to be in pain after a walk.

Grass seeds can also lodge in a dog’s eyes, with a sore or weepy eye among the warning signs that need prompt veterinary attention, as veterinary guidance highlights.

James added: “Early treatment is important because grass seeds rarely work their way back out once they’ve penetrated the skin. The sooner they’re removed, the less likely they are to cause complications and infection. A few minutes spent checking your dog after each walk could save them a great deal of pain and help avoid more invasive treatment.”