Dog owners may notice that their beloved pets are chowing down on grass a little bit more compared to the rest of the year.
While a number of people believe that this is a sign of illness in their pups, grass is said to be more appealing to dogs during the spring and summer months.
Blue Cross said that grass during this period is much more green and fresh, which makes it tastier for dogs.
But the animal charity has issued a warning to dog owners over their grass eating habits - particularly if it becomes ‘excessive’.
A spokesperson said: “There shouldn’t be any need to worry about this if the habit doesn’t become excessive, the grass they’re munching on has not been sprayed with harmful pesticides and you have talked to your vet yo get treatment to ensure your dog is protected from lungworm, which is passed on by slugs and snails.
“Bear in mind that standard flea and worm treatments sold in pet shops do no normally protect against lungworm.”
Blue Cross also said that dogs may resort to eating grass if they are bored. Experts suggest providing ‘better enrichment’ for them through walks as well as indoor and outdoor play, including food puzzles.
Owners should seek veterinary advice over their grass eating habits if their dog is:
- Eating grass, but not their normal food
- Eating grass to an excessive manner
- Eating grass repeatedly and vomiting up over a period of a few hours
- Eating grass and doesn’t seem themselves or appears unwell
And charity experts have issued a warning over grass seeds, which are said to be a common problem with dogs during the summer months.
The seeds are attached to the tops of long grass stems and can easily brush off onto your dog during walks.
Although they are very small, they have the potential cause real pain to your pup.
The seeds have sharp ends, which can easily become trapped in a dog’s fur and burrow down the coat to pierce the skin.
A spokesperson for Blue Cross added: “If you get back from a walk and notice a grass seed in the coat or on the surface of your dog’s skin, remove it straight away.
“But if you spot a seed that has started to burrow into your dog’s skin, or if your dog is licking or chewing at a sore place, or think your pet might have a seed in his or her eyes or ears, contact your vet.”
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