Picture this: it’s a warm summer’s day in Northamptonshire, and you’re out enjoying the park with your dog. After bounding through long grass, you notice their coat is dotted with tiny, sharp seeds. These are grass seeds, and while small, they pose a great risk, as their pointed shape means they can easily burrow into your dog’s paws, ears, eyes or skin and cause, pain, infections, swelling. In this article, our vets in Daventry share where dogs are at most risk, common symptoms, and how to prevent problems.

If you notice your dog is experiencing discomfort, book an appointment with our friendly team.

Book an appointment for personalised advice

 

Is my dog at risk?

Our veterinary team at Daventry Vets explain that all dogs can come into contact with grass seeds, but it is more common for dogs with longer, hairier ears and longer fur around the paws to be affected. If your dog particularly enjoys running through long grass in Northamptonshire, it is important to be aware of the risks.

Our vets in Daventry warn that grass seeds can move through tissue, potentially causing abscesses, infections, and in rare cases, more serious internal issues. What may start as a minor irritation can quickly escalate into a painful condition requiring more complex treatment.

Does my dog have a grass seed injury?

Here is what to look out for:

• You notice your dog limping or excessively licking their paw
• Swelling, redness, or a small hole in the skin especially between their toes
• Sudden onset head shaking or rubbing against surfaces
• Discharge from the eye, nose or ear
• Red, watery, or squinting eyes
• Sneezing

If you notice any of these symptoms, don’t wait – call our vet practice in Daventry on 01327 877767.

How to prevent grass seed injuries

Here are some simple steps you can take to reduce the risk:

• Stick to well-maintained paths and avoid long, dry grass where possible
• Check your dog thoroughly after walks, paying close attention to paws, ears, and eyes.
• Stay on top of grooming to avoid overgrown hair around the paws and ears, you can ask your dog groomer to clip ears and paws short.
• Do a post walk check and remove any visible seeds promptly if it’s safe to do so

If you’re concerned a grass seed may be lodged somewhere, seek veterinary advice as soon as possible. Early treatment is usually straightforward and can prevent more serious complications. Treatment often involves sedation to remove the offending grass seed(s)

If in doubt, our Daventry Vets team are here to help – call us for advice or to arrange a check-up on 01327 877767, or book online.

Book a skin assessment online