Flatspine Bur Ragweed

Flatspine bur ragweed, also known as annual burweed, annual bursage, hooker's bur ragweed, and western sand-bur, belong to the Ambrosia acanthicarpa family. It is native to North America and can be found throughout the United States as well as the Canadian provinces of Alberta, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan. In fact, ragweed has even been introduced to Hawaii!

Ragweed produces an abundance of pollen that is very lightweight and easily travels through the air, hence its widespread growth across entire continents. This widespread pollen is also responsible for “hay fever”, allergic asthma, and triggers nasal allergies in both people and pups.

Ragweed is considered a seasonal allergy because it peaks at different times of the year. In warmer climates, particularly southern regions of the U.S., ragweed season can begin as early as July and last as late as November. Ragweed season typically peaks in mid-September.

Ragweed allergies can affect canines of any breed or age; however, allergies commonly develop between the ages of 2 – 5 years.

If your pup is reacting to flatspine bur ragweed, it's important to remove or block off access to any ragweed growing on your property and supervise your pup during outdoor play time at dog parks, on hikes, or other outdoor activities.

Did you know...

The most effective way to eliminate ragweed plants on your property is to pull them up from the roots.

Luckily, these plants have fairly shallow root systems and can easily be pulled out.

While there are many effective herbicides available for ragweed, these can be risky for dogs and other animals.