The Irish Blue Cross has alerted dog owners to the serious seasonal hazard of grass seeds. The tiny seeds can track under dogs' skin, into their eyes, nose, and ears, causing serious injury.

Grass seeds are found in meadows and woodland areas during the summer months. The seemingly harmless, tiny pointy seeds, can cause painful and potentially dangerous injuries to dogs.

The head of veterinary services at The Irish Blue Cross, Dr. Sophie Olah explained: "Grass seeds can easily attach to dogs’ fur during walks, especially in long grass. Once embedded, the seeds can pierce the skin, causing intense discomfort.

The Irish Blue Cross has explained that early detection can prevent a minor irritation from becoming a serious veterinary issue.

Veterinary surgeon at The Irish Blue Cross, Dr. Ciara Sweeney explained: "If your dog has a grass seed stuck in their paw, they could lick vigorously at their paw, you might spot a swelling between their toes, or they may limp.

"If one has gotten into their ear or eyes, they may shake their head, paw at their ear or eye, or you might notice redness, swelling or discharge from their eye.

"They can often sneeze violently to try and dislodge a seed if one has entered their nose, and if a seed enters under their skin, they may chew or lick at the sore spot.

"If you spot a grass seed in your dog’s fur, that has not yet pierced the skin, please remove it immediately to prevent injury," Sweeney added.

The animal welfare charity has outlined a number of warning signs that dog owners should look out for including:

Persistent licking of paws.
Swelling between the toes.
Sudden limping.
Head shaking or pawing at ears.
Sudden bouts of sneezing.
Redness, discharge, or swelling in the eyes.
Localised licking or chewing at a sore spot.

Pet owners should contact their vet immediately if their dog displays any of these symptoms.