Watch out for caterpillars

ANIMAL experts in Spain are warning pet owners to be extra careful when out walking at this time of year due to the dreaded pine processionary caterpillar.

The insect was not usually seen until March, with most cases affecting animals reported in April. However, climate change is said to be bringing their arrival forward, with sightings now beginning in February or even January in some parts of Spain.

When disturbed, the insect sheds thousands of tiny hairs that can cause rashes and dermatitis in children and animals, and in the case of dogs can even be fatal if swallowed and not treated in time.

Animal welfare associations warn that contact with the caterpillar can cause necrosis of the tongue in dogs if they lick or bite the insect, or if they accidentally step on it and then lick their paw to stop the itch.

THERE are now more pets in European households than children.

A survey undertaken by phone giant, Samsung, shows that close to twothirds (63 per cent) of pet owners consider their pets as beloved family members.

The survey shows that tech­savvy owners would like to be able to use technology to clean up after their pets using vacuum cleaners (53 per cent), keep them fed using automatic feeders (49 per cent) and use location trackers to monitor their movements (48 per cent).