I’m a dog expert – the toxic plant that could kill your pooch and the five signs they might’ve been infected
AN ANIMAL expert has revealed that there’s a toxic plant that can be fatal to your pooch – so if you have a dog, it’s time you listened up.
The pet professional explained that you must keep your dogs away from Foxtail – a grass-like weed.
Posting on TikTok under the username @holisticpetradio, in a seven-second clip, pet whizz Amanda advised: “Keep your dog away if you see this weed.
“This is foxtail. Foxtail seeds can burrow into the skin, travel to vital organs, causing major health issues or death.
“Foxtail seeds can also be inhaled, swallowed, lodged in the ears and stuck in between the toes.”
The dog expert later added: “Foxtails have a barbed seed head that can work their way into any part of your dog or cat.
“It can burrow into the skin and in worst case scenarios, can make it to vital organs, including the lungs, spinal cord or brain, and heart.
“Always do a visual inspection of your pet after walking in areas with Foxtails (especially their paws) and give them a brush with a slicker brush or fine toothed comb to remove any possible seed heads caught in their fur.”
Amanda then listed the signs to look out for if you suspect your dog may have been affected by Foxtail.
She continued: “Signs that your pet may have an embedded Foxtail can vary greatly based on its location, but some signs include: Retching cough, gagging, excessive salivation or stretching their neck to swallow.
“Eye swelling and/ or discharge.
“Repeated head shaking and tenderness in ears.
“Sneezing repeatedly or pawing at their nose.
“Abscesses, swelling and pain.”
Amanda then advised: “If you think your pet has a Foxtail seed embedded in them, you should seek veterinary medical assistance immediately.”
Amanda’s clip has clearly left many open-mouthed, as it has quickly gone viral and has amassed a whopping 1.1million views.
It has 33.8k likes, 407 comments, 7,271 saves and 9,427 shares.
Social media users were thankful for the advice and were eager to reflect this in the comments.
One person said: “Thank you for sharing.”
Another added: “Thank you for sharing this information.”
A third commented: “Appreciate you.”
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