Before explaining the damage that this little insect can cause to our furry friends, let's see where they came from.
The caterpillar of the pines, or commonly called the processionary, owes its name to its movement in a group in an aligned way, as a procession. It is one of the most important pests of Mediterranean pine forests; They make their nests in trees, pines, cedars and firs, and feed on their needles and buds.
Now that we know where these small insects come from, let's see how they affect our dogs.
We know, thanks to veterinary experts and pest control companies, that this larva, by shedding its fine hairs, can cause hives and allergic reactions in humans. But in dogs the consequences can be much more serious; In contact with the fine hairs that we mentioned above, dogs can present symptoms such as itching, hives, a burning sensation, and drooling and itching in direct contact with the mouth. However, if they accidentally ingest the larva while out for a walk, the consequences can be disastrous; by swallowing all the poison that the insect contains in its entirety, they can suffer necrosis in the throat and on the tongue. On many occasions, detecting the problem late can cause the dog to die.
What can we do to avoid it?
Well, in these cases the only thing we can do is try do not move to places where there are trees in which these larvae inhabit. This will considerably reduce contagion. However, if the dog has encountered the processionary:
1- We will go immediately to the veterinarian for treatment.
2- Whenever we go to touch the dog we will do it with gloves; let's remember that humans are just as vulnerable to the processionary
3- Above all, if we have children at home, we won't let them get close since it affects them much more.
4- If it comes into contact via the eye or mouth, we will wash with water immediately.
5- We will try that the animal itself do not spread the poison scratching or licking the infected area.
Finally, remind you that when there is the greatest risk of contagion is in spring, between the months of April and June, which is when they increase their activity and become more visible.
