Foxtails are a long meadow grass that resemble the tail of a fox. They are often found along paths and roads. In the winter they are soft and green, but in the Spring, the seed heads dry and can become a danger to our dogs. They stick to clothes and fur and can easily become lodged between a dog’s toes, eyes, ears and nose. If they become embedded, they can travel and cause severe infections and abscesses.

Signs and Symptoms of Foxtails:

• Sneezing
• Face rubbing
• Swollen, red, squinting eye
• Limping or licking a paw
• Firm, painful swelling
• Head shaking
• Scratching at the ears
• Coughing

Protecting Your Dog from Foxtails:

• Remove weeds from your yard
• When walking or hiking with your dog, avoid grassy areas
• Discourage your dog from eating grass and weeds
• During foxtail season, examine your dog daily. Check underneath the fur, between the toes, in the ears, the armpits and in the groin area.
• Carefully remove any foxtails you see
• See a veterinarian as soon as possible if you think your dog has an embedded foxtail