How to Get an Embedded Foxtail Out of a Dog's Paw

Foxtail is a spiked cluster of grass that grows across the Western United States; it is also commonly called "spear grass." Foxtail represents a large health hazard for all breeds of dogs, but especially long-haired breeds, as the spiked clusters of seeds can embed themselves in the pads of the animal's paw. Removal of foxtail seeds is possible if treated immediately after entering the paw.

Things You'll Need

  • Comb
  • Tweezers
  • Nonalcoholic antiseptic
  • Gauze
  • Tensor bandage
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      To comfortably remove the foxtail from the paw, have your dog lie down. If your dog is sitting or standing, it will be extremely difficult to locate and remove the seeds as it will be easy for the dog to pull its paw away from you.

    • 2

      Use a standard human hair comb, or another comb with small teeth. Gently hold the paw in your hand, and with the other hand, softly comb the fur around the foxtail to loosen the hold the seeds have on the fur.

    • 3

      Once the fur is untangled from the foxtail, apply an antiseptic liquid to the wound to prevent any infection from spreading.

    • 4

      Using standard tweezers gently grasp the foxtail. Do not attempt to violently pull the spikes out of the paw as this will cause the removal of the skin around the spikes, resulting in bleeding. With the tweezers, move the foxtail back and forth in small motions. After a few moments you will feel the foxtail releasing its hold in the paw, and it will smoothly pull out.

    • 5

      Treat the wound with more antiseptic and wrap the paw in a bandage. You can use gauze and a tensor bandage for this. Be sure to not wrap the bandage to tight as it will cause a loss of circulation in the paw.