Attention dog owner: Processional spinners threaten four -legged friends in NRW!

Attention dog owner: Processional spinners threaten four -legged friends in NRW!

The Bonn animal shelter in North Rhine-Westphalia is currently warning dog owners of the danger from processionary moths, especially in the spring and summer months. These caterpillars, which are particularly common in oak and pine forests, can represent health risks for both animals and humans. The caterpillars can be recognized by their characteristic white sprin, which are established on branches and tribes.

There are two main types of procession spinners: the oak processionary spinner and the pine processionary spinner. Their caterpillars move in long, chain -like columns and are occupied with toxic burner hair. These burn hair provide dangerous reactions in contact, including strong salivation, shortness of breath, vomiting and in severe cases even death.

risks for dogs

Dog owners are urgently asked to avoid affected areas and pay attention to warning signs. If you suspect contact with the caterpillars, a veterinarian should be consulted immediately. Even if the nests appear empty, there is still a danger, since the bubbles of the caterpillars can remain dangerous even after the death of the animals.

The poisonous burn hair of the caterpillars are not only risky for dogs, but also for humans. Contact can lead to skin symptoms such as severe itching, squaddling and respiratory diseases. Uncovered parts of the body, such as the face, neck and arms, are particularly at risk. In the worst case, an anaphylactic shock can occur, which is why a doctor should always be consulted when symptoms occur.

distribution and protective measures

Processional spinners belong to the subfamily of the dental and are mainly widespread in Europe, Africa and the Mediterranean. A total of six species, including the oak processionary spinner, are known in Central Europe. The caterpillars are nocturnal and feed primarily on leaves of different plant species.

The risk time for humans and animals affects the period from the beginning of May to the end of June or early July, when the caterpillars hatch and begin to develop their toxic burner hair. It is therefore important to be particularly careful during this time and to keep dogs away from potential danger zones.

To avoid contact, dog owners should regularly check forests and parks for barriers and warnings with their animals. In the event of contact, surrounding veterinary measures are essential to prevent serious health consequences. The dangerous potential of the processionary spinners should not be underestimated, since the health risks they represent for both humans and animals are serious.

For further information about the oak processionary and its effects on health, readers can report the reports on , wikipedia and Netdoktor Consult.