06/17/2026
Foxtail Season Is Here! 🌱
Summer is just getting started, and our doctors have already treated more than 20 foxtail cases this year. These pesky grass awns may look harmless, but they can cause serious problems when they become lodged in your pet’s skin, ears, nose, eyes, paws, or even migrate deeper into the body.
Swipe through to see what foxtails look like!
Signs your pet may have a foxtail:
• Sudden sneezing or pawing at the nose
• Excessive licking or chewing at the feet
• Head shaking or ear scratching
• Swelling, redness, or draining tracts on the skin
• Squinting, redness, or eye irritation
• Sudden limping
How to help prevent foxtail injuries:
• Avoid overgrown grassy areas and fields whenever possible
• Check your pet’s paws, ears, eyes, and coat after outdoor adventures
• Keep fur between paw pads trimmed
• Remove any visible foxtails right away if they have not penetrated the skin
If you notice any of these signs or suspect your pet may have encountered a foxtail, contact us as soon as possible. Early treatment can help prevent more serious complications.