Pine Processionary Caterpillars
With the mild winter we are enjoying , the Costa Animal Society ( CAS ) would like to warn you that we can expect an early visit from the annual Pine Processionary Caterpillars in 2022 . Pine Processionary Caterpillars usually start their annual march from their pine nest into underground burrows in late winter to early spring . They get their name because they undertake this journey in single file lines and follow one another much like a religious procession .
The danger for your pets , and for humans , is that this is when we are most likely to come into contact with these rascals . At this stage of their lifecycle they possess an unusual defence mechanism . That is , they are covered in fine white poisonous hairs , which can cause reactions ranging from an extremely itchy rash to very deadly anaphylactic shock when they are touched or ingested .
During the winter Pine Processionary Caterpillars make nests , which resemble large cotton balls or white candyfloss , in our local pine trees . If you live near pine trees , especially ones with white nests , extreme care must be taken with your pets as the weather begins to warm in the spring . You should not let your dog roam free and you should try to keep your cat indoors . Unfortunately , the inherently curious nature of your pet may lead them to investigate these unusual creatures . If your pet has the misfortune
John Peatey A pine processionary nest
to sniff , lick our bite these caterpillars your animal would likely suffer a severe allergic reaction or anaphylactic shock , possibly causing airway closure and death .
The symptoms of exposure to caterpillar hair are excessive drooling or frothing at the mouth , difficulty in breathing and / or white spots in the mouth or tongue . If you think your pet is suffering from these symptoms , our vet recommends you flush your animal ’ s mouth with as much water as possible and immediately take your pet for emergency treatment .
A final warning : if you are thinking of taking a pre-emptive strike against these nests you should bear in mind that they too are full of caterpillar hair , which can easily fall out when disturbed . Exposure in humans has been known to cause a severe skin irritation that can last up to three weeks , temporary blindness and / or respiratory problems . Make sure you take appropriate precautions or hire a professional .
Available for Adoption
Buzz is a young Border Collie type dog who was found on the San Juan de Capistrano urbanisation in Nerja last month after wandering the streets near the tower for a few days . His photos and story have been shared on social media as a found dog but no owner has come forward . CAS is now advertising Buzz for rehoming . He is an 18 month-old male who has the coat , colouring and size of a smooth Collie with the temperament and good nature to match . Buzz is a sweet boy who loves to please people and he gets along well with other dogs . He would make a wonderful companion for a single person or a family of two or more and he will be easily trained . If you would Buzz like to meet one of the animals under the care of CAS , and are looking to adopt or are willing to foster a pet please contact Kurt and Laura at 95 252 1426 or view the CAS website and Facebook page .
CAS Cat of the Month
CAS would love to find a home for the elegant Señor Shorty , a five year-old male cat who was born with a short tail in a garden near La Noria in Nerja . All of his siblings found new homes but Shorty grew up in the garden where it became his domain .
Unfortunately , the owner of the house now needs to move back to the UK , so Shorty needs a new house to call home . He has been vaccinated , neutered and Shorty has always been treated for fleas , ticks and worms , but he still needs a chip and passport .
Shorty likes to spend his time in the garden but also comes into the house to sleep . He is not a cuddly boy , but a talkative cat with an independent streak who will tell you when he is hungry . If you would like to give Shorty a chance please call Laura at 95 252 1426 and she can arrange for an introduction .
For more local information about cats in need of fostering and rehoming , contact CAS on 601 629 938 , visit the shop , or see us online at www . casnerja . webs . com or on our Facebook page \ casnerja . We are also on Instagram at : cats _ dogs29780 , and you can find us on Twitter by searching for Costa Animal Society Nerja . To see cats available for fostering or adoption see the Facebook page \ East of Malaga kittens or cats / Gatitos de la Axarquia .
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