Urgent vet warning over common plant that's toxic to dogs - the seeds can kill
A VET has issued an urgent warning to all dog owners over a common toxic plant.
Experts said the plant is very common in UK green spaces and its seeds can cause your pooch a killer infection.
Foxtail plants are a weed-type grass that can cause serious problems for dogs.
It can be lethal as the seeds can be caught up through the skin, ears and paws.
Head vet Sean McCormack has alerted all dog owners as the plant can be easily spotted during summer months.
“As we spend time outdoors with our canine companions, it is important that pet parents are aware of the dangers foxtail grass seed can pose to dogs," he said.
Read More Dog News
It can grow up to a metre high and it is shaped like a tail of a fox with seeds arranged in spikey clusters.
Vets have urged dog owners to be vigilant this summer as the plant can grow in common walking areas.
Sean said: "They tend to be found in meadows, as well as paths, and boggy areas."
“Its spiky hairs that sit at the top of stems are actually incredibly sharp and it can pierce or scratch their skin or become embedded in their paws.
Most read in The Sun
"This includes getting lodged between their claws, toes or between their paw pad and skin, which can be really painful for your furry friend."
Some breeds with drooping ears may be more at risk than others because their fur can catch the seeds more easily.
They can cause a deadly infection if consumed and left untreated.
A few symptoms to look out for include painful lumps, swelling in their paws, and lethargic attacks.
Other dogs can experience a lack of appetite as the inhaled foxtail could be hurting their insides.
Vets recommend to stay away from long grassy areas during walks and always look out for the toxic plant.
If your pet comes in contact with the seeds, you can use tweezers to remove any foxtails stuck in their fur.
In case of infection you should take your dog to a local vet.
READ MORE SUN STORIES
It comes as vets issued an urgent warning over a popular household item which could kill your dog.
Meghan Brook's pooch was rushed to the vet after Daisy ingested a roast pork from the bin.
ncG1vNJzZmivp6x7tbTErKynZpOke7a3jqecsKtfZ4B1fZhuaW5npae0prrTZpqopZ2ku268y5qlrWWWpMW1rcilZK2nqJ6wbrDOoGSvnaRixKK%2BzaKloGc%3D