A vet has warned of the "huge number" of grass seeds across the UK after a number of dogs were injured - and one reported dead.

Dr Nicky Ross said that barley seeds can injure pooches, getting in their paws, ears, and even lungs.

The warning comes as a number of dogs have been hurt, with one dying after inhaling the seed.

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Dr Ross, of New Priory Vets, said: “The shape makes them a problem because they look like little darts.

The Northern Echo: Grass seeds can get stuck in dogs paws causing them a lot of painGrass seeds can get stuck in dogs paws causing them a lot of pain

“We have been seeing a huge number of them this year, a lot more than I remember previously”.

Grass seeds have proved dangerous for dogs this summer as they can get stuck in areas such as feet, noses, and eyes, causing severe irritation and pain for pets.

Dr Ross, who is based in Brighton, has said that recently she has been seeing as many as two or three grass seeds a day that need pulling out of dogs.

Other rarer but more serious complications from the seeds include perforated ear drums and breathing difficulties.

Dr Ross said the best advice she could give to dog owners is to avoid particularly dry fields and to check their pets for signs that they are in pain.

She said that these symptoms could include dogs shaking their heads or clawing at paws.

The Northern Echo: Dogs are particularly susceptible to the problem with seeds getting stuck in feet, ears and nosesDogs are particularly susceptible to the problem with seeds getting stuck in feet, ears and noses

"Just be really aware of your dog. If there is something not right go and see someone about it,” Dr Ross added.

It is not known whether there have been any such cases in the North East and North Yorkshire this summer.

But Brighton and Hove City Council have said the issue of grass seeds is "naturally occurring" and something that can't be eliminated

A spokesman for the council said: “Barley grass has been growing in verges across the country for a long time now. It is naturally occurring and is something we cannot eliminate.

“The issue of dogs occasionally being injured by barley grass also crops up all the country.

“In order to minimise the risk to a dog, owners should be careful to check where their dog walks”.

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