Foxtails and Your Pet: What You Need to Know

If you live in or around Milpitas, you may have encountered foxtails on your outdoor walks with your dog. These barbed seed awns can be dangerous for your pets, especially during the warmer months when they are more prevalent. At Advanced Veterinary Medical Center, we want to ensure that pet owners understand the risks foxtails pose and how to act quickly if they suspect their pet has been affected.

What Are Foxtails?

Foxtails are the seed heads of certain grasses that grow primarily in dry, grassy areas, particularly during spring and summer. These sharp, barbed awns are designed to burrow into the ground, but they can just as easily work their way into a pet’s fur, skin, or even internal organs. Once lodged in a pet’s body, foxtails continue to move forward, creating the risk of serious infections or injury.

Why Are Foxtails Dangerous for Pets?

Foxtails are not just an inconvenience—they can be dangerous for your pet’s health. Because of their barbed structure, they easily latch onto your dog’s coat and can embed themselves into the skin, eyes, ears, nose, and paws. Some of the risks associated with foxtails include:

• Infections: If a foxtail burrows into the skin, it can cause abscesses or infections that require immediate treatment.
• Internal damage: If a foxtail migrates inside the body, it can cause serious complications by puncturing internal organs or causing respiratory issues if inhaled.
• Irritation and discomfort: Foxtails cause immense discomfort. Pets will often try to alleviate the irritation by excessive licking, scratching, or sneezing.

Signs Your Pet May Have a Foxtail Injury

Recognizing the signs of a foxtail injury early is crucial. If your dog has been in an area where foxtails are common, watch for these symptoms:

• Excessive licking or biting: Dogs often lick or bite areas where foxtails have embedded themselves, such as their paws or between their toes.
• Redness or swelling: An inflamed area on your dog’s body could indicate that a foxtail is lodged under the skin.
• Sneezing or nasal discharge: If a foxtail has entered your dog’s nose, you may notice persistent sneezing or even blood coming from their nostrils.
• Head shaking: Foxtails can easily enter the ears, causing pain and irritation. A dog that shakes their head repeatedly might have a foxtail lodged in their ear canal.
• Squinting or tearing: Foxtails can also enter the eyes, leading to redness, squinting, or excessive tearing.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek veterinary care immediately. Delaying treatment can result in more serious complications, including severe infections.

What Happens During a Foxtail Removal?

At Advanced Veterinary Medical Center, we have the tools and expertise to remove foxtails safely and effectively. If your pet shows signs of a foxtail injury, our veterinarians will conduct a thorough examination, which may include sedation and imaging to locate the awn. In some cases, surgery may be required to remove deeply embedded foxtails.

Once the foxtail is removed, your pet may be prescribed antibiotics to prevent infection. In more severe cases, we might recommend follow-up visits to ensure your pet’s recovery goes smoothly. For urgent cases, visit our Emergency Services for prompt care.

Prevention Tips

Prevention is always better than treatment, especially when it comes to foxtails. Here are a few ways you can protect your pet from foxtails:

• Avoid areas with tall, dry grass: Try to walk your dog in areas where the grass is short and well-maintained, especially during the foxtail season.
• Check your pet after outdoor activities: After walks or hikes, inspect your pet’s paws, ears, and coat for any signs of foxtails.
• Groom your pet regularly: Regular grooming can help prevent foxtails from embedding in your pet’s fur. Consider keeping your dog’s fur trimmed during the summer months.

For additional ways to protect your pet, explore our Preventative Care services.

Conclusion

Foxtails can pose a serious threat to your pet’s health, but early detection and treatment can prevent complications. At Advanced Veterinary Medical Center, we are here to help with any foxtail-related emergencies, offering both preventative care and expert treatment. If you suspect your pet has been affected by a foxtail, don’t hesitate to contact us today for immediate assistance.