Hello, wonderful pet parents of Santa Barbara! As we fully embrace the early summer days we wanted to send out a friendly, but urgent, heads-up about a seasonal menace that’s already making its presence known in our exam rooms: foxtails!
These sneaky, barbed grass awns are unfortunately a common part of our California landscape, and their season is officially upon us. Here at La Cumbre AH, we’re already seeing daily cases and we want to help you protect your furry family members.
The Sneaky Truth About Foxtails
Foxtails aren't just annoying; they can be dangerous. Their unique shape allows them to burrow into almost any tissue including the skin, ears, noses, and even eyes, and once they're in, they don't come out on their own. Instead, they can migrate deeper, causing pain, infection, and serious complications.
Where to Check (and How Often!):
Every time your dog (or even adventurous cat!) comes in from a walk or hike, make it a ritual to perform a thorough "foxtail check." Pay special attention to:
* Paws and between the toes: This is a prime entry point.
* Ears: Especially for floppy-eared breeds.
* Armpits and groin: Hidden areas where they can easily get lodged.
* Under the tail: Another often-missed spot.
* Around the eyes and nose.
When to See Us – Don't Wait!
Your pet will often give you clues if they've encountered a foxtail. Please don’t hesitate to bring them in if you notice:
* Aggressive sneezing or pawing at their nose: Could indicate a foxtail up the nostril.
* Vigorous head shaking or ear scratching: A classic sign of an ear foxtail.
* Squinting, pawing at an eye, or excessive tearing: Foxtails can get into the conjunctiva of the eye in both dogs and cats, causing significant discomfort and potential damage.
* Licking a particular spot on their body excessively.
* Lumps or sores that appear suddenly, especially after outdoor activity.
We understand that these situations are emergencies and we are always prepared to prioritize and accommodate your pet if they’re suffering from a foxtail. While we hope you don't need us for this particular issue, please know we're here if you do.
Proactive Protection:
For our more foxtail-prone pups or those who love exploring the trails, consider investing in protective gear like Outfox hoods. These specialized hoods offer a barrier for your dog's ears and eyes significantly reducing the risk of foxtail intrusion.
For the safest outdoor adventures until the foxtails are gone in late fall, stick to paved sidewalks and sandy beaches. While they’re still beautiful places to explore, they typically offer a much lower risk of encountering these pesky seeds.
Art, Community, and Giving Back!
If you’ve been near the Santa Barbara Mission recently, you might have seen some incredible chalk art as part of the I Madonnari Festival. We were thrilled to participate once again and our piece held a very special meaning for us.
Inspired by one of our beloved patients, a sweet dog named Sugar Kane, Dr. Holmes, her family, and friends collaborated to create a beautiful chalk art rendition that benefited the Children’s Creative Project. It was a joy to contribute to such a wonderful cause and to see our art come to life through the spirit of our community. If you haven't seen it yet, the chalk art is still visible in the evenings, usually until the rain comes– there are so many breathtaking pieces to enjoy! See our art below.
Show Your Local Love: Best of Santa Barbara Nominations!
Finally, the nominations for the Santa Barbara Independent’s "Best of Santa Barbara" have officially begun! We are incredibly grateful for the trust you place in us to care for your beloved pets, and we are truly honored to be a part of this vibrant community. If you feel we’ve made a difference in your lives and the lives of your furry companions, we would be incredibly grateful for your nomination. Your support means the world to us! You can nominate us here.
Thank you for being such a wonderful part of the La Cumbre Family. We're here to help keep your pets healthy, happy, and foxtail-free all summer long!
Warmly,
The Team at La Cumbre Animal Hospital