Foxtails

In golden Southern California, there is nothing like going outside with your dog once spring and summer set in. I recently hiked Towsley canyon with my children enjoying the hillsides covered with lupines and golden poppies. But another plant I saw everywhere along the trail set my teeth on edge. After all the much needed rain this spring, California is setting a bumper crop of foxtails.
For those not familiar with foxtails, these vicious little seed heads are arrow shaped and covered with barbs. Once they make their way into your sock or in between your dog’s toes they don’t frequently turn around, they simply burrow in deeper and deeper. If they are picked up on a dog’s coat they can often end up burrowing into the skin.
Most animals will show early signs of foxtail wounds: shaking, rubbing, or licking of the affected area; redness of the skin or eye; a wound that won’t heal. If the foxtail isn’t removed, those signs will progress to more obvious signs of infection: discharge and a terrible smell. There are even situations where foxtails enter through the skin of the chest and end up in the lung or spine. Worse yet, these evil little seeds can carry clostridium with them from the soil which can infect your dog with tetanus.
To prevent pain, infections and potentially surgery, always brush out your dog’s fur and check between their toes when you have visited a foxtail endemic area. Do not allow your dog to roll in areas where you see foxtails. If you find them growing in your yard, dig them out entirely. Foxtail hoods can also be purchased to keep them out of your dog’s ears.
Have a beautiful hike with your pup, and stay away from foxtails!
Please call Copper Hill Animal Clinic at 661-296-8848 to schedule an appointment.