Foxtails, Snakes & Late-Summer Hazards
Hidden dangers for pets during late summer in British Columbia. Learn how to protect your furry companions from seasonal hazards.
Late summer in British Columbia is the perfect time to explore trails, parks, and outdoor spaces with our pets. However, August also brings an increase in seasonal hazards that can pose serious and sometimes life-threatening risks to dogs and cats. Many of these dangers are small, easy to miss, and capable of causing major medical emergencies if not addressed quickly.
Understanding what to watch for — and when to seek urgent care — can make a critical difference in your pet's outcome.
🌾 Foxtails: Small but Extremely Dangerous
Foxtails are barbed grass seeds commonly found in dry fields, trails, and parks. Unlike ordinary debris, foxtails are designed to move forward. Once attached to a pet's fur, they can burrow into the skin and migrate deeper into the body.
Common areas affected include:
- •Paws and between toes
- •Ears and ear canals
- •Eyes and eyelids
- •Nose and nasal passages
- •Under collars or harnesses
Warning signs of foxtail exposure may include:
- Sudden limping or swelling of a paw
- Persistent licking or chewing at one area
- Head shaking or ear pain
- Sneezing, nasal discharge, or coughing
- Squinting, redness, or discharge from the eyes
Foxtails do not fall out on their own. Left untreated, they can cause severe infections, abscesses, and internal damage.
Medical Emergency
⚠️ Foxtail exposure is a medical emergency. Prompt veterinary evaluation is essential.
If you notice any of these warning signs after your pet has been outdoors, seek immediate veterinary care. Early removal prevents serious complications.
🐍 Snakes & Wildlife Encounters
Warm summer weather increases wildlife activity, including snakes in grassy, wooded, or rocky areas. Dogs are most at risk due to curiosity and close contact.
If you suspect your pet has been bitten:
- Keep them calm and restrict movement
- Do not apply a tourniquet or attempt home remedies
- Seek emergency veterinary care immediately
Delaying treatment can significantly worsen outcomes.
🐾 Post-Adventure Safety Checks
After hikes or outdoor play, take time to thoroughly check your pet's:
Paws and nail beds
Ears and eyes
Nose and mouth
Skin folds and under collars
These simple checks can prevent minor issues from becoming serious emergencies.
Regular post-adventure inspections are your first line of defense against hidden hazards.
🚑 When to Seek Emergency Care
If your pet shows sudden pain, limping, swelling, breathing changes, or behavioral shifts after outdoor activity, trust your instincts. Early intervention saves lives.
The emergency team at Vancouver Animal Emergency & Referral Centre is available to provide urgent care when your pet needs it most.
We're Here When You Need Us
If something feels wrong, trust your instincts. Prompt emergency care can save lives. Our team is available 24/7 to provide guidance and treatment for your pets.
Open 24/7 for all emergency cases. Quick response saves lives.