Dog Owner Warns Others of Just How Dangerous Foxtails Can Be to Pets
It’s that time of year when everyone loves to play outside, enjoying the sunshine, and that, of course, includes our dogs. They love swimming, hiking, and rolling around in the grass. But along with the warmer weather comes some precautions we all should take as a way to keep our fur babies safe.
TikTok user @haulin_oats posted a warning about one of the summer's many dangers - the foxtail grass plant. These sharp plants can get lodged into your dog's fur and paws. Be sure to listen as she explains more about this dangerous plant.
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Ugh, she had to wait five hours for her dog to get out of the animal hospital because so many others are coming in with foxtails that need to be removed. Foxtails are prickly seeds in weedy areas that can get stuck in your socks or shoelaces. And for dogs, foxtails dig into them, sometimes even migrating into their body to the lungs or other organs. Foxtails are very dangerous, which is why it's always recommended to get to a vet as soon as possible.
@ss.purplelife commented, "Our girl won’t wear shoes but we’re diligent about checking her paws every time! A safe dog is a happy dog!" Having your dogs wear boots is a great way to protect them from the hot pavement and also foxtails, but not every dog will wear them. If that is your dog, be sure to check as best you can after every walk. "Foxtails are the WORST," added @courtneylynn_b. You can say that again. We don't want any pet owner to ever have to go through the heartache of rushing their pet to the vet to get a foxtail removed.
This video is honestly such a great heads-up for everyone this summer. So be sure you're on the lookout while hiking or walking your dog in the park. Don't let them run around in high grassy areas either. The more aware you are, the safer you all can be, which of course will lead to a better summer!
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