Community Spirit, Jan 2019

C O M M U N I T Y N E W S & B U S I N E S S V A L E N C I A
What should I do?
The caterpillar hairs are barbed, so become
stuck in the skin and mucous membranes, and
they are laden with nasty bacteria which can
cause necrosis. Ensure you wear protective
gloves, and wash the affected area with plenty
of warm water (the warmth helps to neutralise
the toxin a little), to quickly get rid of as many
hairs as possible. Acting quickly can save your
pet’s life, though please be careful not to wash
them down your pet’s throat!
It is during their processionary phase that they pose a real danger to
both ourselves and our pets, as their bodies are covered in fine hairs
which are highly toxic! Contact with these hairs causes a severe
allergic reaction, with inflammation, swelling, and painful
itching/burning sensations that can last for weeks. In pets, the areas
most commonly affected are the tongue, lips and mouth, and
sometimes the eyes or more widespread parts of the face. Dogs are
particularly susceptible, as being curious, they may sniff or even lick
them, or pick the hairs up on their feet, which they later lick when
itchiness sets in.
What symptoms should I look out for in my pet?
Inflammation or swelling of any area that may have come into
contact with the caterpillar hairs, particularly facial areas and the
mouth or tongue. In addition, if the mucous membranes of the
mouth have been affected it is common to see excessive drooling
and/or trembling of the jaw or lips.
Once this is done, take your pet urgently to
your local vet clinic, where treatment can be
started to prevent anaphylactic shock and
avoid the secondary bacterial infection
responsible for necrosis. Swelling of the tongue
and throat puts your pet at risk of suffocation,
and if too much of the tongue is lost to necrosis
your pet will be unable to eat or drink.
We recommend you carry water with you
when out walking, as washing the affected
area even with just a little cold water can help
reduce the risks for your pet. More
importantly, try to avoid areas with pine trees,
and be vigilant in windy weather, when the
caterpillars can be picked up by gusts and
blown about. We hope this advice is helpful,
but ultimately the best course of action is to
avoid crossing paths with either the
caterpillars or their nests.
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