08/06/2026
One tiny grass seed could turn a lovely summer walk into an emergency vet visit.
Grass seeds might look harmless, but they can cause serious problems for dogs during the warmer months. They can easily get stuck in paws, ears, eyes, noses or fur and may work their way into the skin causing pain and infection.
Symptoms to watch out for:
• Excessive licking or biting paws
• Head shaking or scratching ears
• Sneezing, coughing or gagging
• Redness, swelling or sore areas
To help prevent problems:
• Check your dog after grassy walks
• Keep fur trimmed around paws and ears
• Clean paws after walks
If you spot a grass seed deep in the skin, ear, eye or nose, contact your vet rather than trying to remove it yourself.
After every walk I give your dog a quick once-over for grass seeds, but please check them at home too.
Please share to help raise awareness.
