A vet has released a warning after several dogs, including a bulldog from Thornton Heath, have had to have urgent treatment for problems relating to grass seeds.

Easipetcare in Streatham performed surgery on Monica, after she arrived with a strange swelling on her face, there was no obvious cause and during examination nothing could be seen or felt.

She was given a short course of antibiotics and the swelling reduced but then a few days later it came back even larger.

Vets realised that something hidden may be causing the problem. During surgery they located the remains of a grass seed inside her cheek and once removed Monica soon made a full recovery.

Julie Knapton, Head of Practice explained that the seeds could be hard to detect, “The problem is that they can become embedded in various parts of the body like eyes, ears and paws.”

She warned, “We would urge owners to check the fur and paws of their dogs after walks to remove any seeds in their hair, especially long coated breeds. This is really good practice for owners to do anyway, as it is a great opportunity to also look for any cuts, ticks etc. which a pet can so easily pick up when they are out and about.”

For further information about how to care for your pets, please call 0203 621 6114 or visit https://www.easipetcare.com/streatham/