Remember dogs and cats like to chew on tall grass and weeds……So be aware of any foxtails that might be in or around your yard.

Dry foxtails easily get snorted up the nose, stuck in the eyes, ears, throat, and paws.

And once a foxtail becomes stuck or embedded in the skin, irritations and infections will start to show, and finding it becomes the problem.

If you suspect your pet has a foxtail.

Once a foxtail becomes lodged somewhere, its very important to see your veterinarian right away, as they travel fast. The further they go the more your veterinarian has to search.  Meaning time, sedation, and money.

Our Buddy the min pin knows all too well about a foxtail in the nose. He sniffed one up on a walk some years ago.  Within hours it traveled too far to be pulled, but luckily under sedation they were able to find it.

So its best to act fast if you suspect a foxtail.

Weeds cause trouble!

Some have thorns or prickly lil burrs that can get caught in their fur, between toes and pads, leaving them limping or chewing at their paws.

Pets chewing on dry weeds can also cause trouble with them getting stuck in the throat.

So try to keep your yard clear of pesky weeds.  And check for dry weeds that may have tangled in fur after hiking.

Choose an all natural vinegar based weed killer. 

Brands like…

Green Gobbler
Eco Garden Pro
Natural Armor

Among other vinegar based weed killers you can easily find on Amazon or home improvement stores.

OR make your own……

Essential Oil/White Vinegar Weed Killer

Ingredients:

• 2 cups boiling water
• 1 cup white vinegar
• 1 teaspoon clove or lemon oil
• 1 drop of dish soap

Combine all ingredients together, allow time to cool before pouring into sprayer or spray bottle.

Remember to ALWAYS keep pets and kids away while working with any mixtures of vinegar, boiling water and other products that can get in eyes or be harmful in any way. 

Wishing safe, happy gardening AND hiking days to you and your pet 🐾❤️