By Xavier Smerdon
SUMMER should be a fun time for pets and their owners.
But for many it could be the most dangerous time of the year.
Dr Kristie Jennings from the Wyndham Veterinary Clinic in Werribee said that owners need to be aware of the dangers facing their beloved pets as the weather begins to heat up.
“The most common thing we have to deal with is grass seeds and fleas,” Dr Jennings said.
So far this summer the vet clinic has already had to remove about 300 grass seeds from dogs paws, ears, noses and eyes.
Dr Jennings said the pesky seeds can lead to bigger issues.
“The most common place to find them is in between the toes,” she said.
“It irritates them and it can get infected. They can migrate and travel up the leg.
“That’s why we want to get them out as soon as possible.”
Dr Jennings said that if a grass seed travels up the dog’s leg then surgery may be needed to remove it.
She urged dog owners to keep grass seeds in mind during the warmer months.
“If you have a dog with long hair, keep them clipped and groomed especially around the feet,” she said.
“At the very least they need to inspect them after a walk and make sure they don’t have any seeds on them.”
The vet and proud owner of Pete the Labrador said that snake bites could also pose a risk.
“Keep them away from rivers and keep them on a leash,” she said.
“Sometimes they can run into a bush and the owner might not even see them get bitten.”
