Spring is the peak of the processionary caterpillar, an apparently harmless insect that is actually very dangerous for dogs. Its name comes from its peculiar way of moving in a group and in a straight line. They proliferate especially between the months of March to June and usually roam around areas of pine trees. Their danger comes from up to 600,000 white hairs that cover the body of these insects. When they feel attacked, they expel these stinging spikes that contain a toxin called Thaumatopin.
These hairs are very harmful both by contact and if they are ingested. The consequences vary depending on whether there has only been external contact with the spikes or if they have been ingested, as well as the number of spikes and the size of the animal. They can cause your dog damage ranging from an eye infection, conjunctivitis, skin or nose irritation, to anaphylactic shock, necrosis of the tongue or other affected areas, lesions in the esophagus and even difficulty breathing, reaching to the death of the animal if action is not taken immediately. So you have to know how to protect your pet to avoid a scare caused by the processionary.
In the first place, it is best to avoid at all costs walking through areas where there are pine trees, whether they are parks or forests. In fact, even processionary nests in these trees can be toxic, so it’s best to keep your furry friend from going anywhere near the pines.
For greater control of where your dog is going, it is advisable to keep him on a leash at all times. You probably already do this in urban areas, but if you usually give it loose walks through nature, refrain for a while and leave the leash attached until the processionary season is over. If you don’t have complete control of your dog, it’s more likely to run wild and end up scouting a processionary line without you even realizing it.
You must recognize the symptoms of a dog affected by processionary, to be able to identify in time if your pet has been affected by them and thus be able to act accordingly. These can be inflammation and irritation of the eyes and skin, inflammation in the mouth, wheezing and difficulty breathing, excessive and thick salivation, fever, difficulty getting up and walking. You can also observe that it jerks its head and tries to scratch itself in specific areas, where there may have been contact with the insect.
At the appearance of any of these symptoms, pour plenty of cold water in the area where the dog has been affected, to eliminate the toxins of the processionary. Then you should go to the vet as soon as possible. On the way, avoid licking areas where it is itchy.
