A foxtail is a type of diaspore or plant dispersal unit that serves to disperse the seeds of a grass as a unit). Some grasses that produce a foxtail are themselves called "foxtail" or "spear grass"). Foxtails can become a health hazard for pets and other domestic animals, and a nuisance for people). They can work through clothing, particularly fabric shoes and socks, causing discomfort to people while walking). Foxtails are a problem beginning when the grass inflorescences begin to disarticulate, and ending when the spikelets or spikelet clusters are mechanically abraded or incorporated into the soil, turf, or leaf litter).
Foxtails can be risky for dogs and cats. The barbed seed heads of the foxtail plant can work their way into any part of the animals body, from the nose to between the toes and inside the ears, eyes, and mouth. They can even simply dig themselves directly into a patch of skin. Foxtails can pose severe health risks by migrating into tissues where they can cause abscesses and widespread infections. Foxtails are especially dangerous when they have dried out and hardened, typically during the summer months.
Foxtails can be found anywhere in the United States but are most common in the West. They are most often found in hiking trails, parks, flatlands, meadows, and open grassy fields. To prevent foxtail problems, it is recommended to examine your pets coat during foxtail season, especially if youve gone walking in open fields. Brush your pet as necessary, looking especially closely for pointy foxtail awns in your pets thick or feathery fur.
