What are grass awns?
Grass awns are the seed heads of certain types of grass. When they dry out, they detach easily. Due to their arrow-shaped structure, they only move in one direction: further and further inwards.
They can attach to the fur, but also end up in places like the: ears, nose, eyes, toes, under the fur on the skin, and mouth. A grass awn will not disappear on its own and can work its way deeper into the body.
Why are grass awns so dangerous?
The danger lies mainly in the shape of the grass awn. The small barbs ensure that it cannot move back out.
As a result, a grass awn can:
- Cause irritation
- Cause inflammation
- Cause pain
- Move deeper and deeper into the body
If a grass awn is not removed in time, sometimes treatment or a minor procedure by the vet is necessary.
Symptoms of a grass awn
The symptoms depend on where the grass awn is located.
In the ear
- Suddenly shaking head violently
- Scratching one ear
- Pain when touched
- Tilting the head
In the nose
- Frequent sneezing
- Blood from one nostril
- Snorting on the ground
- Difficulty breathing
In the eye
- Squinting eye
- Tearing
- Redness
- Blinking or rubbing
Between the toes
This is one of the most common places.
Pay attention to:
- Licking one paw
- Limping
- Swelling between the toes
- Redness
- Small wound or bump
In the skin
Sometimes a grass awn works its way under the skin.
You may notice:
- A painful swelling
- A small hole from which fluid is draining
- Recurrent inflammation
Which dogs are at extra risk?
Actually, any dog can suffer from grass awns.
The risk is greater for:
- Dogs with longer coats
- Dogs with a lot of hair between their toes
- Active dogs that often run through tall grass
- Hunting dogs and sport dogs
Where do grass awns occur?
Grass awns grow in many places, such as:
- Roadsides
- Parks
- Along cycle paths
- Dikes
- Nature reserves
- Dry grasslands
- Fields
Especially during the period from June to August, grass awns are abundant.
Check your dog after every walk
A quick check often only takes a few minutes.
Check especially:
- Between the toes
- Around the ears
- Under the armpits
- In the groin
- Around the eyes
- Under the tail
- Throughout the entire coat
Brush loose grass awns directly out of the fur before they can embed themselves.
Can you prevent grass awns?
Complete prevention is unfortunately not possible, but you can reduce the risk.
1. Avoid tall, dry grass
During the summer, walk as much as possible on mowed paths.
2. Keep the coat groomed
If necessary, trim excess hair between the paw pads and brush the coat regularly.
3. Check after every walk
The sooner you discover a grass awn, the smaller the chance of problems.
4. Pay attention to sudden behavior
Does your dog suddenly start sneezing violently, constantly shaking its head, or obsessively licking one paw? Then a grass awn could be the cause.
When to go to the vet?
Contact a vet when:
- You cannot safely remove a grass awn.
- You suspect a grass awn is in the ear, eye, or nose.
- Your dog is in a lot of pain.
- A swelling or inflammation develops.
- The symptoms do not quickly disappear.
Do not try to remove a grass awn that is deep in an ear, eye, or nose yourself. This can worsen the situation.
Enjoy summer carefree
Fortunately, most walks are safe and enjoyable. By checking your dog after every walk and being alert to the first signs, you can prevent many problems. Also, check for ticks ;)
This way, you can both continue to enjoy everything summer has to offer without worries.