How processionary caterpillars are very dangerous to dogs and also to humans, especially young children

With heads as harmless looking as they are, Processionary Caterpillars keep a deadly secret; microscopic, barbed hairs full of toxin.

Dogs and young children must keep clear of these hairs which are like miniature land mines, waiting to be stepped on or pestered (via curiosity) for the death of their organs.

So You Have the Most Evil Catastrophe in Canine History

Dogs, with their doggo ears/Collie eyes/Aussie snout hardwired to sniff everything out. Their inquiring noses often take them right into danger.

Oral Torture: Hairs are sensitive to touch and can trigger immediate irritation, much on windpipe/tongue. Swelling comes on rapidly leading to excruciating pain. In severe cases, tissue necrosis will develop so portions of the tongue can be lost.

Respiratory distress: Inhalation of the hairs makes severe respiratory problems. The tiny barbs burrow through the thin lining inside of their tiny lungs, creating an inflammatory response that results in breathing difficulties. It can rapidly progress to become a true medical emergency.

Systemic Shock: Some dogs have a major allergic reaction, anaphylaxis. This can result in sudden drop of blood pressure, breathing issue and often death.

Hazards to Children — Little Hands with Great Power

Little kids, not knowing the risks are just as susceptible. This can be very dangerous as they are always exploring, and touching things.

Skin Reactions: Cooties that come in direct contact to the hairs suffer from a very painful and itchy rash. These reactions are often immediate.

Ocular Injuries: Hairs that get in the eyes can cause profound inflammation, and, if long enough, may lead to a corneal abrasion. This will result in chronic vision impairment.

Internal Threats: ingesting the caterpillars cause severe inflammation of the throat and even obstruction of the airway.

Protecting your Family

Prevention is the most effective strategy you can adopt. Here's how you can protect the people you love.

Area Aversion: Limit your time in pine forests (mostly mid to late winter and spring) caterpillar season.

Leash your dogs: During walks, keep dogs on leash so they do not dig into the dangerous locus.

Child Safety: Educate kids about the hazards these caterpillars have and tell them not to touch them.

Visual Alertness: Registration in the usual processions of caterpillars, and the white down on pine trees — which are the signs of their presence.

Response: If you think you have been in contact take immediate action with veterinary or medical care.

More Vigilance Needed

All too real risk, not only for our pets and children. Defense is a must when it comes to knowing the risks. If we do our work and keep informed, butts up against the wall, alert the masses; then we can effectively reduce danger.

The first important point is to know the signs, avoid high-risk periods during the seasons and intervene immediately once touched. Prevention and a swift reaction are your best protection against these little monsters that look harmless but are actually so dangerous.