A devastated dog owner is urging fellow pet lovers to be vigilant after her beloved Springer Spaniel puppy, Ralph, tragically died from complications caused by a simple grass seed.
A Happy Life Cut Short
Ellie had shared joyful footage of her one-year-old puppy, Ralph, who was described as "happy, playful and full of life". The energetic spaniel loved nothing more than splashing in rivers and running through fields and on the beach. However, his life was cut short in November 2025 after a walk in the park led to a fatal infection.
"I can't believe I'm writing this and my heart is broken," Ellie expressed. She explained that Ralph had begun to seem withdrawn and sad, which the family initially attributed to a stomach upset. The situation drastically worsened when the puppy started to struggle to breathe.
The Fatal Discovery
In a state of desperation, Ellie rushed Ralph to emergency veterinarians. A chest X-ray revealed a horrifying scene: the puppy's small body was flooded with bacterial fluid surrounding his heart. The vets concluded that this was likely due to a foreign body, most probably a grass seed.
"They believe this is due to a foreign body, most likely a grass seed," Ellie warned. Ralph was immediately placed in intensive care and pumped with antibiotics while vets planned a CT scan to locate the embedded seed. "We do not know where it is located but lungs are suspected due to the severity of infection and fluid," Ellie explained. "Ralph nearly suffocated it was that bad."
A Heartbreaking Outcome and Vital Warning
Tragically, just five days later, Ellie shared the devastating news that Ralph had lost his fight for life. Her story serves as a crucial health alert to all dog owners.
"This post is to spread awareness to check your dogs after walks, especially in the summer time," she continued. "These little seeds from grass/wheat fields can get into the body via ears, nose and mouth causing serious internal damage."
The RSPCA has published its own guidance on the dangers of grass seeds. On its website, the animal charity states: "Grass seeds are pointed seeds that can cause problems for our pets by getting stuck in paws, ears or anywhere else on the pet's body."
It further explains that in some serious cases, the seeds can migrate through the body and end up in the chest cavity. The RSPCA advises owners to be alert to the following signs:
- Small, fluid-filled bumps appearing between the toes.
- Head shaking or a head tilt, which may indicate a seed in the ear.
- Blinking, discharge, or holding an eye closed, suggesting a seed in the eye.
"The best course of action is to check your pet thoroughly daily or after every walk for dogs," the advice continues. "Check between paws and monitor for any abnormal signs. There is more potential for damage the longer a grass seed is left. If you notice anything abnormal then call your vet for an appointment."
