Protecting your dog in summer: grass awns, ticks and caterpillars

Summer exposes dogs to numerous outdoor dangers

With fine weather, walks become longer and dogs spend more time outdoors. However, this period also increases the risks to their health. Dry grasses, external parasites and certain caterpillars can cause sometimes serious complications.

The dangers of summer for dogs mainly concern:

Grass seeds
Ticks
Pine processionary caterpillars
Heatstroke
Skin irritations
Paw pad injuries

Some dogs are even more sensitive:

Long-haired dogs
Very active dogs
Puppies
Dogs living in the countryside
Hunting dogs

Daily monitoring therefore remains essential throughout the summer season.

Grass seeds in dogs: a common danger in summer

Why are grass seeds dangerous?

Grass seeds are small dry spikes found in tall grass. Their pointed shape allows them to easily catch onto a dog's coat. They then work their way into the skin or certain orifices.
The most affected areas are:

The ears
The eyes
The nostrils
The spaces between the toes
The genital area

A grass seed can quickly cause:

Significant pain
An abscess
An infection
A perforated eardrum

Symptoms of a grass seed in dogs

Several signs should raise concern:

The dog shakes its head vigorously
It sneezes suddenly
It licks a paw excessively
It keeps one eye closed
It suddenly limps

In this case, a veterinarian should be consulted quickly. The longer the grass seed stays, the deeper it migrates.

How to prevent grass seeds?

Prevention remains the best solution.

Here are the right habits:

Avoid tall, dry grass
Inspect the dog after each walk
Brush the coat regularly
Trim the hair between the pads lightly if needed

To clean small irritations after a walk, you can use:

Veterinary cleansing wipes
An antiseptic spray suitable for dogs
A mild disinfectant solution

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Ticks in dogs: watch out for vector-borne diseases

Why do ticks pose a real danger?

Ticks are very present from spring until autumn. They attach themselves to a dog's skin to feed on blood.

The problem does not come only from the bite. Indeed, ticks can transmit several serious diseases:

Babesiosis
Lyme disease
Ehrlichiosis

Some infections can cause:

Severe fatigue
Fever
Loss of appetite
Blood disorders

Where are ticks found?

Ticks live mainly:

In tall grass
Forests
Gardens
Damp areas

Even a dog living in the city can be affected.

How to remove a tick correctly?

A suitable tick removal hook should be used. Then:

Slide the hook under the tick
Turn gently
Disinfect the area

Never pull abruptly or use alcohol before removal.

Pine processionary caterpillars: a sometimes life-threatening danger

Why are pine processionary caterpillars so dangerous?

Pine processionary caterpillars have extremely toxic urticating hairs. A simple contact can cause a severe reaction in dogs.

Dogs are often contaminated when they sniff or lick a caterpillar during a walk.

Symptoms after contact with a pine processionary caterpillar

Signs appear very quickly:

Hypersalivation
Swelling of the tongue
Intense pain
Vomiting
Breathing difficulties

In severe cases, part of the tongue can become necrotic.

What to do in an emergency?

Action must be taken immediately:

Rinse the mouth thoroughly with lukewarm water
Wear gloves
Avoid rubbing
Consult a veterinarian urgently

Every minute counts.

How to avoid pine processionary caterpillars?

To limit the risks:

Avoid areas infested with pine trees
Keep your dog on a leash
Watch for nests in trees
Report contaminated areas

Useful veterinary products for summer

Essentials to have in your summer kit

Certain products can help protect your dog during holidays or summer walks.

Presentation of useful products

Frontline Tri-Act (available in 5 sizes to suit your dog's weight)

Benefits:

Protection against ticks
Repellent action against certain insects
Simple pipette application

Seresto

Benefits:

Long-lasting protection
Continuous release of active ingredients
Suitable for regularly exposed dogs

Benefits:

Localised cleaning
Hygiene for small irritations
Practical use after walks

Frequently asked questions about summer dangers for dogs

How do I know if my dog has a grass seed?

A dog affected by a grass seed often shows sudden discomfort: limping, repeated sneezing, head shaking or excessive licking. A quick consultation helps avoid complications.

Are ticks dangerous even if they stay attached for a short time?

Yes. Some diseases can be transmitted quickly after the bite. The longer the tick stays attached, the higher the risk. It is therefore necessary to inspect your dog after every outing.

Can a pine processionary caterpillar kill a dog?

Yes, in certain severe cases. Inflammatory reactions can cause severe respiratory distress. Immediate veterinary care remains essential.

Which antiparasitic should I choose for summer?

The choice depends on the dog's weight, its environment and its level of exposure. A dog living in the countryside or often going into forests generally needs enhanced protection.