The Riverina is a hotbed of grass seeds which cause problems in both working and pet dogs, silently killing our best friends.

Charles Sturt University (CSU) has published nation-leading research which identifies risk factors and the potential for prevention.

Martin Combs has reviewed close to 500 serious cases of grass seeds affecting dogs over the past five years.

“We’re not talking about finding a seed in a paw but in a brain or lung,” Dr Combs said.

“Where the is seed is so deeply embedded that surgery is required.

“There have been a lot of case reports where seeds have been found in brains and hearts in the past. But this is the first time we’ve identified risk factors.”

An embedded grass seed can cause issues including “mild lameness”, infections, breathing or neurological issues and death.

The seeds can migrate through a dog’s body.

Dr Combs said working dogs faced the highest risk.

“They sleep outside, they’re around seeds all the time, they’ll run through grass fields,” he said.

“They’re at risk of sucking seeds in with their breath as they’re running.”

Symptoms can start subtly with dogs having trouble breathing, Dr Combs said.

“Kelpies face the biggest risk, they’re the classic farm dog,” he said

“(Illness) is not just a vet bill, but it can mean they don’t work.”

While farm dogs face the highest risk, pet dogs are not spared with visits to the park or even backyards 

However, the research has revealed a simple way to reduce the risk – grooming. Dr Combs urged dog owners to do more than a quick inspection or cut the top layer of an animal’s fur.

Professional dog groomer Kate Gillard said she would find hundreds of grass seeds during early summer and the spring.

“(The undercoat) intertwines like thatch, it gives a place for seeds to hook onto,” Mrs Gillard said.

“When dogs are well groomed, a grass seed is less likely to hook in. The start of summer is the worst.”

The next stage of Dr Combs’ research is to discuss with farm dog owners about potential preventative ideas.