At this time of year, processionary caterpillars are especially active and, as people who care deeply about our dogs, it is essential to stay alert.Ignacio Alarcón, dog trainer and educator at Dog Friends, shares important information about the dangers posed by these caterpillars and how to protect our pets.
Why are they so dangerous?
Thepine processionary caterpillaris a moth species that passes through three stages in its life cycle: egg, larva (caterpillar) and adult (moth). These stages take place over the course of the year, but it is inspringthat we are most likely to encounter the caterpillars as they leave their nests. At this stage they can pose a serious threat to ourdogs.Let me explain why.
BetweenFebruary and May, processionary caterpillars leave the nest to move to the next stage of their development: fromlarva to chrysalis. During this period they descend from pine trees in long nose-to-tail lines, which is why they are known as “processionary” caterpillars. The danger is that at the larval stage they arehighly toxic. Their risk is not always obvious at first glance, so being informed is essential.
The danger comes from theirurticating hairs. Each caterpillar carries around500,000 hairs or trichomesalong its body. These hairs behave rather like tiny poisoned arrows and, because they are so small, detach very easily. They contain a toxic substance calledthaumetopoein, which is released when the caterpillar feels threatened.
Contact with skin or mucous membranes can trigger histamine release, causingsneezing, inflammation and skin rashes. In addition to skin reactions, the toxin may also cause respiratory or eye problems and evensevere anaphylaxis. Processionary caterpillars can affect both people and animals. In dogs, injuries can be especially serious because dogs may brush against, lick or ingest the caterpillars.
One of the first signs in a dog that has come into contact with processionary caterpillars isintense itching or pain in the affected area, similar to a burn. If treatment is delayed, severe tissue damage can occur and, in extreme cases, a dog may lose part of the tongue through necrosis or evendie from airway obstruction.
Dog Friends advice:
- Avoid pine-wood areas:During spring, when processionary caterpillars are most active, avoid walks in areas heavily populated by pine trees. Put your dog’s safety first!
- Keep your distance: Never touch a processionary caterpillar. Move your dog away immediately to avoid unnecessary exposure.
- Immediate rinsing:If your dog comes into contact with a caterpillar and veterinary help is not immediately available, act quickly. Rinse the affected area thoroughly with plenty of water, taking care not to rub the hairs into the tissue, and seek veterinary advice as soon as possible.
- Go to the vet:If you notice worrying signs such as swelling, intense itching, difficulty breathing or vomiting,do not wait — seek veterinary attention immediatelyto obtain professional help. Your dog’s health comes first.
What should I do if my dog has been exposed?
- Urgent veterinary care:Take your dog to a veterinarian immediately for urgent assessment. Do not delay if there are signs of an emergency.
- Treatment prescribed by the veterinarian:The veterinarian may use medication such as corticosteroids or other treatment to control inflammation and allergic reactions, depending on the dog’s condition. Rapid professional treatment is important.
- Hospitalisation in severe cases: In some cases, hospitalisation may be required for closer monitoring and treatment.
Additional advice:
- Tell your veterinarian about any known contactwith processionary caterpillars, even if symptoms are not yet visible.
- Keep a canine first-aid kitwith basic supplies such as water and gauze, and only use medication when advised by a veterinarian.
- Keep your dog’s routine veterinary care up to date.
Remember: prevention is the best protection against processionary caterpillars.
Take extra care at this time of year and protect your four-legged companion!
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Together we can help protect our dogs. Let us take care of our faithful companions!
