Many plants are in bloom at this time of year, including those that could harm our pets.  

Foxtail, a grass-like weed, can be quite dangerous for our animals. 

“When it's green it’s no different than any other grass,” said Dr. Andrea Clarke, a veterinarian at Prairie Animal Health Center in Weyburn.” When it's turning like it is right now, it's brittle, it shatters, dogs run around, and it can catch up on the coats. We've been seeing them go down into the throat, into the ear, puncture through the skin, up the nose, all kinds of problems.” 

Clarke said it would be ideal to avoid it entirely. 

“If you're out on a walk, keep the dog on a leash. If you're out in the field much like it is at my place, I just try and keep my dogs directed away from those patches of foxtail.” 

Some common signs that your pet has ingested foxtail, is gagging, gulping or hacking.  

“The only way we can tell for sure that there's foxtail in there is to actually put them under to get in there, and have a look.” 

She added the particles of foxtail are often hard to see, and if you can’t see it, then it’s best to take your pet to the vet.