Whether you’re exploring the countryside on a staycation, heading to the coast, or simply enjoying longer walks closer to home, summer is a wonderful time to get outdoors with our dogs.
However, summer also brings some seasonal hazards, and one of the most common problems we see in practice is grass seed injuries.
Grass seeds may look harmless, but these small, sharp structures can cause significant pain and discomfort for dogs and often require veterinary treatment to remove.
Why Are Grass Seeds a Problem?
Grass seeds are designed by nature to travel. Their pointed shape allows them to attach easily to a dog’s coat and, once trapped in the fur, they can work their way into the skin.
Unlike a splinter, grass seeds rarely work their way back out. Instead, they tend to move deeper into tissues, causing irritation, infection and discomfort along the way.
While most people have heard of grass seeds, many are surprised to learn how much trouble something so small can cause.
Where Do Grass Seeds Commonly Become Lodged?
Between the Toes
This is one of the most common locations. Dogs may suddenly start licking a paw excessively, appear uncomfortable when walking, or develop a swollen, painful area between the toes.
In the Ears
A grass seed lodged in the ear canal can cause immediate irritation. Dogs will often shake their head repeatedly, scratch at the affected ear, or become sensitive when the ear is touched.
In the Eyes
Grass seeds can become trapped beneath the eyelids, causing redness, squinting, excessive blinking and discharge. Prompt treatment is important to prevent damage to the surface of the eye.
In the Nose
Occasionally, dogs inhale grass seeds. This often results in sudden bouts of violent sneezing, pawing at the nose, or nasal discharge.
Under the Skin
Grass seeds can penetrate the skin almost anywhere on the body. Owners may notice a swelling, lump or wound that fails to heal properly.
What Signs Should Owners Look Out For?
If your dog has recently been walking in long grass, keep an eye out for:
- Excessive licking of a paw
- Limping or lameness
- Swelling between the toes
- Persistent head shaking
- Ear scratching
- Red, painful or watery eyes
- Sudden sneezing fits
- Skin lumps, swellings or wounds that do not heal
These signs may seem minor initially, but they can indicate that a grass seed has become embedded.
Can Grass Seed Problems Be Prevented?
Although it is impossible to eliminate the risk completely, there are several simple steps that can help:
- Check your dog’s paws after walks, particularly between the toes.
- Look around and inside the ears.
- Brush your dog regularly during the summer months.
- Keep hair trimmed between the toes, especially in long-haired breeds.
- Remove any grass seeds caught in the coat before they have a chance to penetrate the skin.
- Avoid areas of long, dry grass where possible.
These quick checks only take a few minutes and can make a real difference.
Early Treatment Makes a Big Difference
The earlier a grass seed is identified and removed, the easier it is to treat. Left untreated, grass seeds can migrate deeper into tissues, leading to infection and sometimes requiring more extensive investigations or surgery.
During the summer months, grass seeds are one of the most common seasonal problems we see in practice. Fortunately, a few moments spent checking your dog after a walk can help prevent a painful problem and ensure they continue to enjoy the warmer months safely.
If you are concerned that your pet may have picked up a grass seed, or if they are showing any of the signs described above, please contact us at any of our branches to book an appointment.