You are probably aware of typical doggy dangers (rabies, cars, etc). But lesser-known threats abound. With the help of savvy locals, a good veterinarian, and this blog, you can be more prepared. Let's start with the seed of Satan: the foxtail.
UP FRONT: I am not a veterinarian. Just a dude trying to be a better dog master.
LEARN FROM OBSERVATION, NOT EXPERIENCE:
What is a foxtail?
It's a type of summer grass seed awn. An "awn" is a bristle-like appendage on a plant. The brush-like tips of barley or wild oats are awns. (For you fellow nerds, foxtails exist in the genus Setaria.) Like most super annoying seeds, a foxtail will latch itself onto clothing and fur, but they have small barbs all aligned backwards. This enables movement in only one direction, so the seed may “dig” deeper. Presumably, this is evolution ensuring the seed will travel far and have the best chance of getting buried.
(Photo credit at bottom.)
What's the risk with foxtails?
Foxtails can dig:
- into a dog's fur, then into their skin, causing abscesses and infections.
- between a dog's paw pads, then between their phalanges (fingers), causing abscesses and infections.
- into/around ears, eyes, and nose causing all manner of crappy situations.
- into the trachea after being inhaled. This is what happened to our dog, and our first experience with these devil seeds. The veterinarian sedated him and extracted it before it got to the lungs. What a way to learn...
(Photo credit at bottom.)
How can foxtails be mitigated?
In order of priority, here's what you should do:
1. Learn to recognize foxtail grass, and signs that your dog may be affected. (Excellent article in Dogs Naturally Magazine, our go-to resource).
2. Don't go near foxtails. We use Sprenger collars and the EZ-900 to keep our pups safe and engaged.
3. If you must go near foxtails...check your dog often and afterwards (face, fur, paws, everything). Another option our veterinarian shared is a protective face bag. We ultimately didn't go with these, because we adhered to the first two mitigators. You could also try dog booties.
Be safe and have fun out there!
~ Jordan's Hubby
Gear:
Photo credits:
Foxtails, Up close, Bloody foxtail, Removal of foxtails from leg, Foxtails found in bronchus, Foxtail digging into gums
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