Desert Dangers in May: Protecting Your Pets from Arizona Vegetation
This article is one of a three-part series designed to help pet owners prepare for the spring and summer seasons in the Arizona desert - we hope you find it helpful!
As the desert landscape blooms with the vibrant colors of May, it also brings with it some unique hazards for our furry companions. Here in the Tucson, AZ area / Sonoran Desert, we see an uptick in certain dangers that every pet owner needs to be aware of.
Let's dive into some of the most pressing concerns when it comes to local plant life.
Jumping Cholla: A Prickly Problem
Another desert hazard to be mindful of is the "jumping" cholla cactus. These cacti have barbed spines that easily detach and cling to fur (and skin!).
The Risk: These spines can cause significant pain, irritation, and even infection. They can be very difficult to remove completely at home.
Our Recommendation: If you suspect your pet has come into contact with cholla spines, even if you've removed some, it's best to bring them in for an examination. We can ensure all spines are safely and completely removed, minimizing discomfort and the risk of complications.
The Sweet but Sinister Mesquite Pod
Many dogs are drawn to the slightly sweet taste of mesquite pods that litter the ground, especially after they've fallen. However, these seemingly harmless treats can cause significant problems.
Their tough, fibrous nature makes them difficult to digest, and unfortunately, we have seen cases of intestinal obstruction in dogs who have ingested too many. This can lead to vomiting, abdominal pain, lethargy, and in severe cases, require surgical intervention. Please be vigilant during walks and in your yards to prevent your dogs from snacking on these pods.
Monsoon Mushrooms: A Deadly Gamble
The arrival of our much-needed monsoon season brings with it a flush of fungal growth. While some mushrooms are indeed edible for humans, any wild mushroom your pet ingests in the Sonoran Desert should be treated as potentially toxic. We see a variety of mushroom species pop up, and without expert identification (which is often impossible in the field), it's simply not worth the risk.
Our approach to any pet who has ingested a wild mushroom is immediate and aggressive. We treat every case as a potential poisoning, with inducing vomiting and administering activated charcoal to help absorb any toxins. A particular concern in our region are Amanita species, which are highly toxic and can cause severe liver damage and even death. If you see your pet eating a mushroom, contact us immediately – do not wait for symptoms to appear.
The Silent Invader: Foxtails (Grass Awns)
These seemingly innocuous tips of certain grasses are a major problem for pets in the Sonoran Desert. Their barbed structure allows them to easily become lodged in various parts of your pet's body. We commonly find them between toes, where they can cause painful inflammation and infection. However, foxtails are notorious for their ability to burrow into the skin and migrate throughout the body. They can end up in eyes, ears, noses, and even internal organs, leading to serious complications and often requiring surgical removal.
Regularly inspect your pet, especially their paws, ears, and eyes, after walks. Pay close attention to any excessive licking, head shaking, or swelling. Keeping your yard trimmed can also help reduce the presence of these troublesome plants.
Protecting Your Furry Family:
Prevention is always better than cure. Here are a few tips to help keep your pets safe from these Sonoran Desert dangers:
Be vigilant during walks: Keep your dog on a leash and monitor what they are sniffing and potentially trying to eat.
Regular yard maintenance: Remove fallen mesquite pods promptly and keep grasses trimmed to minimize foxtails.
Inspect your pet regularly: Pay close attention to paws, ears, and eyes after outdoor excursions.
Know the signs: Be aware of symptoms like vomiting, lethargy, abdominal pain, excessive licking, head shaking, or swelling.
Act fast: If you suspect your pet has ingested a mesquite pod or mushroom, or has a foxtail lodged in their body, contact us immediately.
The beauty of the desert in May comes with certain responsibilities for pet owners. By being aware of these potential dangers and taking precautions, we can help ensure our beloved companions stay safe and healthy. If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact us!
