Urgent warning to dog owners across the UK as a Cocker Spaniel nearly DIES after inhaling a common plant – here’s what to look out for

Vets have issued an urgent warning to dog owners across the UK, after a Cocker Spaniel nearly died from inhaling a common plant.

Mollie, a six-year-old Cocker Spaniel from Norwich, developed a recurring cough shortly after returning home from a walk with her owners through the Norfolk countryside.

While vets initially prescribed painkillers, Mollie’s symptoms did not improve, and she almost collapsed five days later.

A CT scan revealed a problem with one of her lungs and she was taken into surgery – with the vet discovering that Mollie had inhaled three grass seeds which had punctured her lung.

‘Grass seeds might seem harmless but they can be very dangerous if left untreated, and cause a lot of pain and discomfort to your dog,’ said Robin Hargreaves, Senior Veterinary Advisor at Agria Pet Insurance.

Following the incident, Mollie remained in intensive care for four days.

She has also been left with a 10-inch scar and reduced lung capacity, although her vet remains confident that she will make a full recovery.

Claire, one of Mollie’s owners, said: ‘Although the vet initially didn’t find anything wrong, my gut told me otherwise.

‘Mollie’s cough was so distinctive so I’m very thankful that it rang alarm bells now.

‘She’s lost a lot of weight and muscle so we’re now feeding her up and she’s on a month of short-lead walks – and while we will take extra precautions from now on, we hope Mollie can continue to live life with the utmost joy.’

Grass seed injuries are a common problem for dogs – particularly during the summer months, according to The Kennel Club and its insurance partner, Agria Pet Insurance, which says that 80 per cent of all claims in the last year were made during the late summer and early autumn periods.

The seeds resemble tiny arrowheads and can easily attach themselves to an animal’s fur and burrow into the skin

The seeds resemble tiny arrowheads and can easily attach themselves to your pet’s fur and burrow into their skin.  

While the paws and ears are the most commonly affected areas, grass seeds can also go up dogs’ noses – as seen with Mollie.

Based on the findings, the Kennel Club is urging dog owners to be aware of the common signs of grass seeds affecting dogs.

This includes your dog shaking their head, licking their paws, looking uncomfortable, lethargy, appearing to be in pain, and swelling or wounds between their toes.

‘It’s important to always check over your dog after walks in meadows, woodlands or any green area and if you think they might be affected, contact your vet immediately,’ Mr Hargreaves added.