A passionate dog owner has attributed a visit to the veterinarian, which cost him £300, to overgrown weeds.

Richard Freedman reported that seeds from emerging grass lodged in the ears of his cockapoo, Chester, during their walk, prompting the need for urgent medical attention.

Mr. Freedman, who resides in East Barnet, North London, mentioned being aware of three other dog owners whose pets experienced similar “painful injuries” affecting their ears, eyes, and paws.

In response, Barnet Council stated that they have a “programme to maintain grass and eliminate weeds throughout the borough.”

“Some areas are intentionally left longer to promote biodiversity; however, we are open to collaborating with dog owners to ensure our public spaces are safe for everyone,” they added.

Mr. Freedman shared with the Local Democracy Reporting Service: “Dog owners are now avoiding specific paths altogether, and the issue will escalate as more grass goes to seed during the summer.”

“The council has a duty to keep the streets safe for all residents, including their pets.”

He disclosed that four “pieces of seeds” were extracted from Chester’s ear while he was under sedation. Upon leaving the veterinary clinic, another dog owner informed him that their pet had experienced the same issue.

“Dogs naturally sniff the ground, and it’s perplexing that the council has chosen not to clear the weeds from the streets,” Mr. Freedman remarked.

“My walk with Chester covers two miles, and every few meters, I encounter weeds sprouting along the roadside or through the pavement, making it difficult to keep my dog from sniffing in areas where grass seeds are present.

“The condition of the streets is deplorable.”

Elizabeth Mullineaux, president of the British Veterinary Association, explained, “Grass seeds, or awns, are sharp fragments of particular grasses and cereal crops that can penetrate a dog’s skin or invade body cavities, acting as foreign objects that cause tissue damage and infections.”

Such incidents tend to rise during the summer when awns become mature.

Dr. Mullineaux advised, “These issues are typically linked to the types of grasses or plants found in agricultural areas. Our guidance for pet owners is to refrain from walking or allowing their dogs to run through fields of high grass or cereal crops, and to inspect their paws, ears, and fur after walks to remove any entangled awns.”

She added that veterinary assistance should be sought if a pet displays swelling between its toes or is shaking its head persistently.