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Dangerous mouse barley: How to protect your dogs in Margareten!
Mouse barley endangers pets in Margareten. Education and measures to maintain green spaces are planned.
Dangerous mouse barley: How to protect your dogs in Margareten!
In Margareten, a lively district of Vienna, there is currently an insidious problem on the horizon: mouse barley (Hordeum murinum). This inconspicuous plant can be not only annoying but also dangerous for pets, especially dogs. The tiny barbs of mouse barley easily get caught in the animals' paws, ears or fur, which can cause serious injuries. Especially between April and October, you can often experience the dangers of this plant up close, as My District reports.
Mouse barley, also known as field barley, belongs to the family of sweet grasses (Poaceae) and is widespread in many parts of Europe. What characteristics make them so problematic? It reaches heights of 6 to 50 cm and shows long, fine awns from spring to autumn, the danger potential of which cannot be underestimated. The symptoms in affected dogs are varied: from severe licking or scratching to lameness, head shaking or watery eyes. In extreme cases, surgery may be necessary to remove broken plant parts, explains Rundum.dog.
Precautionary measures
The Margareten district politicians have recognized the problem and are already planning measures to educate and maintain the green spaces. A motion from the Social Democratic Group (SPÖ) calls for the city of Vienna to check the problematic plants in collaboration with the animal protection ombudsman and specialist botanists and, if necessary, take better care of them or even remove them. The aim of this initiative is to create information campaigns that inform dog owners about the risks and precautionary measures.
The Vienna City Gardens (MA 42) have emphasized that it is not possible to completely remove mouse barley from green spaces, but care is differentiated. Mowing is carried out regularly in specially designated dog zones to minimize the spread of awn-forming plants.
Practical tips for dog owners
How can dog owners protect themselves and their furry friends? Regular checks of the fur after a walk are a must, as awns can penetrate the skin and cause painful injuries. The ears, paws, nose and eyes are particularly vulnerable. If symptoms such as limping or nasal discharge occur, it is strongly recommended that you see a veterinarian. As an additional precautionary measure, special dog shoes or protective vests can be helpful to reduce the risk of awns getting stuck.
All in all, it remains to be said: mouse barley is not a plant that should simply be ignored. Regular grooming, immediate removal of awns and veterinary advice if injuries are suspected are crucial. It is important for your animal companions and their health to remain vigilant. Keep your eyes open, this should also apply to your own good hand in caring for your four-legged friends!