Or, as I call them, The Nasties

It’s that time of the year again. The caterpillars fall from their nests in the pine trees, hook on and find a place to dig into the ground, where they will cocoon and transform into pretty moths.

Dogs can be too curious (curiosity does not just kill cats) and sniff or lick them. The caterpillars defend themselves by shooting up their hairs at the predators, and, oops, you have a problem. Hairs on the tongues or in the noses of your pets can cause not just severe allergies, but could mean their tongue turns black and rots (necrosis). Symptoms include excessive salivation and signs of an allergic reaction.

The poison can cause a drop in blood pressure, leading to shock and even death. Swelling of the tongue is also a common indicator. A visit to the vet is mandatory in that case!