A warning has been issued by a professional dog walker about a type of grass that could be harmful to your furry friend. Gracie Buttery, who runs Gracie’s Dog Walking Service in Norwich, explained that this particular grass should be avoided to prevent a potentially costly trip to the vet. Not all grass seeds are dangerous, but the spikey ones are the ones to watch out for, according to the dog walker.
Gracie took to TikTok to share her knowledge and advise fellow dog enthusiasts on how to handle this dangerous grass if they come across it on a walk. She emphasized that a spikey seed can be a real problem for dogs, especially when it dries out, so it’s best to stay away from it. The shape of these grass seeds makes them difficult to remove once they get embedded in your dog’s skin, and dogs with long or curly hair are at a higher risk as the seeds may not be immediately visible.
For those who find these grass seeds near their homes, Gracie recommends cutting them out because they can be particularly nasty. After sharing her advice on social media, many pet owners shared their experiences and expressed their gratitude for the warning. Some shared stories of their dogs getting these seeds stuck in their paws or ears, resulting in costly vet bills.
In addition to being cautious about dangerous grass seeds, pet owners should also be mindful of potential hazards at the beach. Dr. Rebecca MacMillan advised dog parents to watch out for hidden holes in the sand that could cause injuries to their pets. Playing fetch near these holes could be risky, as dogs may not anticipate them while running and could fall in. Dr. Rebecca also recommended filling up any holes dug by dogs on the beach to prevent accidents.
Moreover, Dr. Rebecca warned against letting dogs drink seawater, as it can disrupt their electrolyte balance and lead to dehydration. In hot weather, certain groups of dogs are more susceptible to heatstroke, including those with underlying health issues, overweight animals, very young or old dogs, breeds with thick coats, and short-nosed breeds like Pugs and Bulldogs. These dogs struggle to regulate their body temperature in hot weather, so owners should take extra precautions to keep them cool and hydrated.
By being aware of these potential dangers and taking preventive measures, pet owners can ensure the safety and well-being of their furry companions during outdoor activities. It’s essential to stay informed and vigilant to protect your pets from harm in various environments.