California Foxtails

Did you know that grass could be deadly for your dog? It's true! Certain kinds of grass called 'foxtails' have a hard seed that is pointy on one end with teeny tiny barbs that help it make its way into your dog but not out. Your dogs ears, nose, eyes, and paws are all susceptible to invasion by these foxtails and, of course, her fur loves to pick them up and carry them around. Once they get in, an infection begins and if not taken care of immediately, could be fatal.
Why are they called foxtails?
Foxtails are actually a weed that looks like tall grass and, for the most part, lives west of the Mississippi . It's the seeds that form at the top of the grasses when it matures that actually look like foxtails with their mini barbs and pointy heads, giving them their name.
Where are foxtails found?
These grasses are common and southern California has its fair share, which is why they are often referred to as California foxtails. But you will find these pests all over the southwestern United States and across the continent. They are 'annuals' meaning they never really go away, but they are green and relatively harmless from the first of the year until spring when they dry out, harden, and turn brown. They are hazardous to your pet from late spring through the fall.
What kinds of grasses are foxtails?
There are a number of grasses that fall into this category. They include:
Foxtail or Wild Barley ( Hordeum murinum ) – Seeds are tiny and easy to miss. Common in weeded areas around asphalt and concrete.
Ripgut grass ( Bromus diandrus ) – Less common but far more dangerous. A killer but large and easy to see on your dog's coat. Common on grassy hills.
Cheatgrass ( Bromus tectorum ) – Medium-sized. Common on grassy hills.
Red brome ( Bromus madritensis ) – Often misidentified as foxtail. Common in weeded areas around asphalt and concrete.
How will I know if a foxtail is affecting my dog?
Because they are so small, it's no easy task to catch a foxtail before it gets into your dog's body. However, there are symptoms that give them away relatively quickly. If a foxtail enters into a certain orifice, his symptom will be related to the entry point. Take a look:
Paw – Excessive paw licking, swelling or lumps.
Eyes – Head shaking, pawing at his eyes, watery eyes.
Nose – Head shaking, sneezing repeatedly, even banging his head on the floor.
Ears – Head shaking, pawing at his ears.
Anus – Swellings or lumps in that area.
How can I help my dog get rid of the foxtail once one gets inside?
Get him to the vet immediately. Immediately. Do not wait. Your vet may sedate your dog and then remove the foxtail with forceps. If you wait, the seed may travel to deep for forceps and surgery will be necessary.
Never try to remove the foxtail yourself. You will most likely leave a piece behind and that is just as dangerous as the entire seed.
How can I prevent my dog from getting foxtails?
There are a number of things you can do. These include:
Avoid foxtail-plagued areas.
Mow grass frequently.
Carefully inspect your dog's coat.
Examine your dog's ears, tail and anus, underarms, neck including under his collar, and paws including his toes and pads.
Remove any foxtails immediately.
Remember, even the most diligent owner can't see everything. Watch for symptoms and take your pet to the vet ASAP if you suspect that a foxtail has made its way into his body. ( By Melissa Steele )