We associate Spring with flowers, sunshine and babies, however, the same way baby lambs and daffodils appear, so do certain not-so-welcome bugs and pests. Spain may not be the worst for this but there are definitely things you should be aware of, for you, your kids and your pets.
PROCESSIONARY CATERPILLARS
Processionary caterpillars are furry caterpillars which are characterized by walking in a straight line. They are born in nests made in pine trees and are very common in Spain. They have 600,000 microscopic needle-like hairs filled with a poison ‘thaumetopoein’. When in contact with human skin (through touch or the wind blowing them on you) it causes massive hives. You must keep your pets away as the toxins can lead to your pets tongue coming off or even kill them.
The only safe way to remove the hairs if you fear you may have been in contact is lightly place sellotape over the affected area and slowly pull away to remove them and wash the area with water. If your dog has been in contact immediately to the emergency vet. Do not rub the area under any circumstance.
TICKS
Ticks are small arachnids (spider family) which live amongst grass awaiting a passerby, animals or humans, to attach onto their skin. Lots of species create their own biological superglue to stick onto your skin harder. They can cause Lyme disease and Alpha-gal (red meat allergy). It causes a ‘bullseye’ rash and flu-like symptoms in most, mild cases and in animals, lethargy and tiredness, although reactions can vary and be a lot worse.
Removal can be tricky: you mustn’t twist, pull or rub. The only safe way to remove is with thin tweezers as slowly and as closely to the skin as possible. When removed, clean the area with alcohol – TIP: keep the tic in a bag or pot to send to investigation in case of worse infection or after-infections.
TIGER MOSQUITOES
Tiger mosquitoes are different from ordinary mosquitoes. They are predators that hunt during the day. They live in stagnant water, big or small, so beware of any puddle or small amount of water left over in plantpots, watering cans or corners, as they will attract these mosquitoes.
The bite of the tiger mosquitoes can be especially dangerous due to the illness, bacteria and parasites they carry. If you get bitten, use creams and heat and cold compresses and if you experience worsening or unusual symptoms go to the doctors.
TOXIC TOADS
There are toads that have a poisonous ‘slime’ which can irritate humans and seriously endanger animals. If you accidentally touch one, wash your hands immediately. If your dog bites one or is in contact, wipe their mouth area with a damp cloth various times until the slime is gone. Do not hose their throat down as this can worsen things and go to the vet immediately. There are certain signs to identify a toxic toad such as more slit and thin eyes, however to be on the safe side, keep your animals away.
These are just a few of the species which can cause problems in the Springtime. Be careful and inform yourself as this could save your animals life and avoid some painful situations for you and your family. We chat more about this one our latest programme:
