Dog fleas: here's why they're so dangerous

Dog fleas: how much do you know about them? 

Summer is such a wonderful time: walks with our four-legged friend, gardens, parks full of flowers…but watch out for grass seeds! 

Grass seeds are insidious and often underestimated enemies that can seriously endanger your dog’s health.

In this article, we’ll explore what they are and why it’s essential to act quickly to protect your pet’s health. 

Dog fleas: what are they?

A burr can be defined as a very small spike (ranging in size from 1.5 cm to 3 cm) that, due to its rough surface and pointed shape, can become lodged in an animal’s fur. 

They tend to grow wherever there is vegetation and range in color from straw yellow to dark brown. They can be identified with the naked eye by their elongated shape and the many fine spines covering them ( these are not easily visible to the naked eye but can be felt by touch).

Why are grass seeds so dangerous for dogs? 

Grass seeds are very dangerous for our four-legged friends. This is because their distinctive “spear-like” shape allows them to easily get lodged in a dog’s fur; as the dog moves, the seeds are pushed forward until they pierce the skin. 

Furthermore, it is very unlikely that the dog will be able to get rid of it on its own. This can lead to infections that could seriously jeopardize its health. 

It is therefore essential to seek prompt veterinary care. 

Dog fleas: which areas are most at risk

Let’s start with this premise: there’s no part of a dog’s body where grass seeds can’t get lodged and cause infections. However, there are certain areas that are more vulnerable, and we recommend checking them once you get back from your walk:

• Cute 
• Ear
• Paws
• Eyes
• Mouth
• Nose 

How can you tell if your dog has grass seeds stuck in its fur? Let’s look at some common symptoms

Depending on where they get stuck, grass awns can cause different symptoms. Let’s take a look at the most common ones: 

Symptoms of grass seeds in the eyes

• Photophobia (the dog tends to keep its eye closed);
• Pain;
• Watery eyes.

Symptoms of grass seeds in the ears

• The dog shakes its head constantly and suddenly;
• Tends to tilt his head toward the side where the grass seed is lodged; 
• Itchy ears.

Symptoms of grass awns in the paws

For dogs with a lot of fur, their paws are the most problematic area. 

Symptoms may not appear until much later, and they include signs that can be more or less noticeable, such as lameness and fistulas that are slow to heal. You should also pay close attention to small abscesses, which may ooze pus.

How can you tell if your dog has a grass seed stuck in its nose?

The first warning signs are a nosebleed or repeated sneezing. However, there are other symptoms you should never ignore, such as a persistent cough (which occurs if the infection has reached the throat) or persistent licking and/or scratching. 

In short, here are the main symptoms: 

• Intense itching ( the dog tends to scratch its nose frequently with its paw)
• Frequent, persistent, and sudden sneezing
• "Lift" your nostril by wrinkling the skin on your nose 
• Nosebleeds (not always)

At the first sign of anything wrong, it’s important to take your pet to the vet.

How can you prevent your dog from getting grass seeds stuck in its fur?

Prevention certainly plays a very important role. Here are some tips for avoiding the negative effects of grass awns:

• After every walk, brush your dog’s coat thoroughly and check it carefully. Remember to pay special attention to all the areas that are most exposed and at greatest risk;
• When you're out with your four-legged friend, look for areas where these plants grow and try to avoid them as much as possible;
• Never underestimate any symptoms. Take immediate action if you start to notice the first warning signs; 
• Watch out for puppies (as we all know, they’re the most curious!). During walks, always keep an eye on where they stick their noses. 

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The post " Dog Thistles: Here's Why They're So Dangerous " first appeared on Dog and Cat Food | Alleva .