Santa Fe Pet Parents: Beware of the Foxtail!

If you haven’t noticed, it’s foxtail season.

Foxtails grow at the top of grass stalks and are most often found in open areas such as hiking trails, along roadsides, in overgrown fields, and . . .even your own backyard. They look similar to the tail of a fox, with layers of upward-facing spines protruding from the center. 

The foxtail variety most prevalent in our area is called Bromus tectorum or “Cheatgrass”. They are annuals and are generally soft and green (and mostly harmless) from March through May. But by mid-June, the barbed seed heads begin to dry, and that is when these plants become dangerous to your pet, and remain dangerous throughout the summer and early fall.

What makes foxtails so dangerous?
Foxtails are a sneaky specimen as they can embed into your pet’s fur as they brush past. Due to the unique shape of this seed, it’s always moving forward, never backward. They move forward through your pet’s skin, ears, eyes, nose, mouth, lungs, and in between toes. Once in the fur, they can travel deeper into their body and cause infections and ruptured eardrums. Over 60% of foxtails are embedded in the ear, nose, or paw.

How do I prevent my pet from being harmed by foxtails?

• Avoid them! Stick to walking your pet in cleared, safe areas.
• Be vigilant in cleaning up your yard areas where foxtails may exist.
• Stay on the trail when hiking. The leash law is in place to protect your dog from many things, and that includes foxtails.
• Regularly examine your pet’s coat, eyes, ears, and paws during foxtail season. Look for abnormalities. What may appear to be a minimal irritation could be much worse.
• Brush your pet after they’ve been in grassy areas, which can help remove the foxtail before it can puncture the skin.

What do I do if I suspect my pet has a foxtail?
Schedule an appointment with your veterinarian right away to remove the foxtail. Never attempt to remove a foxtail yourself as the dangerous barbs can break off inside your pet’s skin, leading to an abscess or even the migration to an internal organ. If the seed has created a pus-filled abscess, your pup may require surgery for its removal.

If the cost of a vet visit seems a bit overwhelming, be prepared and have a look into Pet Insurance for your little ones before they may need it.