I just got done with a hike in the Boise Foothills with the dog and the cheatgrass and foxtails are prime for causing problems.

Both plants have sharp seed pods that can get stuck in a dog's eyes, nose, ears and skin and between its toes.

The sharp, stickery objects can work their way into the skin and cause serious medical problems.

Almost all trails have the grasses lining them. You can't avoid it.

The best thing to do is to check over your dog after each hike. If your dog is sneezing, chances are it got something up its nose.

You'll also find the grasses along the Greenbelt, canal banks and the Boise River.

Check your dog closely after each hike.

If you see your dog chewing on its foot or some place else and find a sore, chances are it is cheatgrass embedded in the skin. Get the pooch to the vet.