Costa News Spain Breaking News | English News in Spain.
Happy spring walks can turn dangerous — Spanish police urge pet owners to protect dogs from toxic pine caterpillars found in green spaces.
Credit : Shutterstock, Radek Preisler
Pine processionary caterpillars are a springtime visitor that pet owners should be aware of.
It might appear that they are harmless, crawling along the path in an orderly line. But don’t be fooled — they can be extremely dangerous, especially to dogs who love sniffing everything in sight. Spain’s Policía Nacional has issued a fresh warning about just how serious things can get if your pet gets too close.
This caterpillar is found every year in areas where there are pine trees. And while they’re just doing their thing — coming down from trees to bury themselves and continue their life cycle — their bodies are covered in toxic hairs that can cause real damage.
Hidden dangers of pine procesionary caterpillars
Here’s the scary part: those hairs contain a toxin that can cause serious inflammation — not just a rash, but swelling, burns, and even tissue death if your pet licks or sniffs one. This is serious enough to warrant an emergency vet visit.
Police advise you to take your dog immediately to a vet if it comes in contact. Bring them straight to the vet. Time matters — these reactions can move quickly, especially in sensitive areas like the mouth, tongue, nose or eyes.
It’s not only dogs. Even curious kittens and cats are at risk.
How to protect your pets from pine caterpillar risk
Avoid pine-heavy regions during spring, if possible. If not, keep your dog on a short lead, and keep an eye on what they’re sniffing — especially near tree bases, dirt paths or fallen pine needles.
Call your veterinarian immediately if the worst occurs. While you wait, rinse the area gently with warm water — but don’t rub. It could get worse if you rub, as it can spread the toxin and push it deeper into skin or mucous surfaces.
It’s worth checking if there are signs posted in the affected areas, or if the trees have been treated before the season.
Spring walks should be fun — not a mad dash to the vet. If you are heading out with a four-legged companion, keep an eye on them. When it comes to these dangerously small critters, a little awareness can go a long way.
Keep up with the latest news in Spain
