Help with processionary caterpillars

IT IS the time of year where many of the processionary caterpillar cocoons are hatching, and pet owners need to be more careful when out walking with their animals.

The caterpillars (procesionaria del pino) make their way to the ground in a long chain, searching for the next place in their life cycle. Eventually they disperse to burrows just below the ground, where they will pupate, but, before this happen,s they can be a danger to humans and other mammals. It is the hairs of the caterpillars that can cause problems. If they are touched or poked, they cause a nasty rash and give off dust that can cause respiratory problems. They are particularly toxic for children and animals.Official advice is that, if you see these caterpillars on an urbanisation, then you should inform the authorities, and they should be removed. In some areas the council will remove them.Some people suggest that you can spray the caterpillars with hairspray, to stop them projecting their hairs, before burning them. However, should the hairs become airborne, then you are more likely to be at risk. If you do touch one, and become itchy, you should consult a doctor. The rashes can be very painful and irritating, and can last for a few weeks.If your pet is infected, you can usually tell because there will be small white spots in the mouth and on the tongue, and the animal will become distressed, and possibly drool. If they remain untreated, animals can die, as the tongue will swell and, in some cases, has to be cut or amputated. If you know your pet has been affected, then you should go to the vets immediately, where your pet will probably be given a cortisone injection.