Late spring in Vancouver is one of the best times of year to enjoy the False Creek Seawall, Olympic Village, and nearby green spaces with your dog. Longer days, milder weather, and more outdoor time make this season ideal for active pets and their people. But as grass begins to dry and seed, there is one small seasonal detail that many pet owners overlook: foxtails, also known as grass awns.

Foxtails are tiny, barbed seed heads from certain grasses. What makes them interesting, and potentially troublesome, is their shape. They are designed to move forward and cling, which means they can become caught between a dog’s toes, inside the ears, around the eyes, under the collar, or even in the nose after a walk through tall or dry grass. Because they can continue to work their way into the coat or skin, they may cause sudden licking, head shaking, sneezing, swelling, redness, or discomfort.

For pet owners around False Creek, Downtown Vancouver, and Olympic Village, this is especially relevant because many daily walks combine paved seawall routes with grassy park edges, landscaping, and off-leash areas. A simple post-walk check can make a big difference. After outdoor time, gently look between your dog’s toes, inspect the ears, brush through longer coats, and watch for any unusual licking or irritation. If your pet seems painful, is shaking their head repeatedly, or you suspect something is lodged in the skin, it is safest to come to us rather than trying to dig it out at home.

This is also the time of year when tick awareness becomes more important in coastal British Columbia. The western black-legged tick is common in coastal and moist areas of B.C. and is most active in spring and early summer, particularly around low vegetation, trails, and brushy areas. Keeping pets on appropriate parasite prevention and checking their coat after outdoor adventures can help reduce seasonal risks.

At Market Hill Animal Hospital, located at 665C Market Hill near False Creek, we love seeing Vancouver pets enjoy the season safely. Whether your dog is a seawall regular, an Olympic Village park explorer, or a Downtown condo companion, a spring wellness visit is a great opportunity to discuss parasite prevention, skin concerns, paw health, and any seasonal changes in your pet’s routine.

Need a spring check-up for your pet? Book an appointment with Market Hill Animal Hospital in Vancouver and keep your companion ready for every sunny walk ahead.