Spring has arrived in Los Angeles — and that means warmer walks, more outdoor adventures, and longer days with your four-legged companions. But with the change of season comes a few important hazards that every pet parent should know about. From the hidden danger of foxtails lurking in dry brush, to the surge in fleas and ticks that comes with rising temperatures, now is the perfect time to prepare your pet for the months ahead.

At Western Animal Hospital, we see firsthand how a little prevention goes a long way. Read on to learn what to watch out for this spring and summer — and how our Western Wellness Membership Plan can help keep your pet protected all year long.

🌾 The Hidden Danger of Foxtails

What Is a Foxtail?

Foxtails are the seed heads of wild barley and similar grasses that dry out and become barbed as spring turns to summer. These arrow-shaped seeds are designed by nature to burrow into the ground — but unfortunately, they burrow into pets just as easily. In Southern California, foxtails are extremely common in dry brush, parks, hiking trails, and even neighborhood sidewalk cracks, making them a serious seasonal hazard for dogs and cats alike.

Why Are Foxtails So Dangerous?

Unlike a splinter, a foxtail does not stop moving once it enters the body. The barbed design causes it to migrate deeper into tissue over time, and it will not dissolve or work its way out on its own. This means a foxtail that enters your dog's paw can eventually travel up the leg into the chest or abdomen if left untreated.

The most common places foxtails enter a pet's body include:

• Paws and between the toes
• Nostrils — causing violent sneezing fits
• Ears — leading to head shaking, tilting, and ear infections
• Eyes — causing redness, swelling, and discharge
• Mouth and gums — especially in dogs that explore with their mouths
• Armpits and groin — areas where fur is thinner

Warning Signs Your Pet Has a Foxtail

Act quickly if you notice any of the following symptoms after outdoor activity:

• Sudden, intense sneezing or pawing at the nose
• Head shaking or scratching at one ear repeatedly
• Swelling, redness, or a small lump on the paw or skin
• Limping that doesn't improve within a day or two
• Eye squinting, discharge, or keeping one eye closed
• Excessive licking at a specific spot on the body

Foxtail injuries are considered a veterinary emergency. The longer a foxtail remains in the body, the greater the risk of serious infection, abscess formation, or organ damage. If you suspect a foxtail, do not attempt to remove it at home — come see us right away.

How to Protect Your Pet from Foxtails

• Inspect your pet thoroughly after every outdoor outing, especially between the toes, inside ears, and around the face
• Avoid walking through tall, dry grasses — stick to paved paths when possible
• Keep your yard grass short and well-watered through the dry season
• Consider a protective booties for dogs that spend time on trails
• Trim longer fur around the ears, paws, and belly to reduce foxtail "catching"

💡 Tip from Our Team:

Make it a habit to do a "foxtail check" every time you come home from a walk or hike. Run your fingers through your pet's coat from nose to tail — especially during May through August when foxtails are most prevalent in the LA area.

Stay Ahead of Seasonal Threats with the Wellness Membership Plan

The best way to protect your pet from seasonal dangers like foxtails and fleas is consistent, proactive veterinary care. That's exactly what our Western Wellness Membership Plan is designed for — giving your pet the regular attention they need to stay healthy all year long, at a price that makes it easy to say yes.

Western Wellness Membership Plan — Only $250/Year

(Total Value: Over $1,015 — you save more than $750!)

What's Included:

• Unlimited office visits — no exam fees all year long
• Preferred access for sick visits, even when our schedule is full
• Comprehensive nose-to-tail physical examination
• Annual vaccinations to keep your pet fully protected
• 10% discount on lab tests, X-rays, treatments and medications
• 10% discount on surgical and intensive care procedures

For pet parents worried about foxtail season, the unlimited visit benefit means you can bring your pet in for a check whenever you suspect an issue — without worrying about exam fees adding up. And with the 10% discount on diagnostics, if we ever need to X-ray or run lab work to locate a foxtail, you'll save on that too.

Ready to Keep Your Pet Safe This Spring?

Foxtail season and flea season don't have to be stressful — with the right preparation and a trusted veterinary team by your side, your pet can enjoy every sunny adventure safely.

Western Animal Hospital has been serving the Los Angeles community for over 25 years. Our team speaks English, Spanish, and Korean, and we're proud to be a locally owned and woman-led practice. Whether you're looking to enroll in our Wellness Membership, pick up flea prevention from our in-house pharmacy, or bring in your pup for a post-hike foxtail check — we're here for you.