Foxtails: The Deadly Weed Threatening Dogs Across the US
Foxtails, a common weed found throughout the United States, pose a significant threat to dogs. These plants, resembling a fox's tail, can cause severe health issues if they burrow into a dog's body.
Foxtails grow in open fields, meadows, and hiking trails, blooming from early spring to early summer, and dying in winter. They are most prominent in the western U.S. but can be found nationwide. Dogs often pick up these weeds while exploring outdoors, with common entry points including eyes, nose, mouth, paws, and ears.
These weeds have backward-facing barbs that allow them to burrow into skin and other body parts. Once inside, they cause infections, abscesses, and even internal damage if not removed. Symptoms include snorting, head shaking, pawing at affected areas, and signs of infection like bad odor, draining tracts, and abscesses. Immediate removal is crucial to prevent severe infection or even death in rare cases. Veterinary intervention may be necessary for embedded foxtails.
Dog owners must be vigilant about foxtails, especially during spring and summer. Regularly check pets for these weeds after outdoor activities. Prompt removal can prevent severe health issues, ensuring dogs remain safe and healthy.
