With the arrival of good weather, certain threats become more frequent and more concerning. In this article, we give you tips on how to identify these dangers, adopt the right reflexes, and react quickly if your dog is exposed to one of them.
We wrote this article with our partner Teddy, a dog trainer and behaviorist, to help you better understand them.
With the return of good weather, what are the main dangers a dog can be exposed to during walks?
We identify 4 main dangers during this period and with the arrival of good weather.
Pine Processionary Caterpillars
Pine processionary caterpillars are a real danger to your dog.
Their hairs contain a toxin called "thaumetopoein" which detaches easily and can cause severe inflammatory reactions such as burns, swelling, and in the most serious cases, necrosis of the tongue.
They nest high in trees, especially pines and oaks, in the form of white cocoons visible on the branches.
At the end of winter or beginning of spring, they descend in single file to the ground to bury themselves and transform into moths. This is when they are most dangerous for dogs.
Foxtails
Foxtails are small dry seeds found almost everywhere from spring onwards, especially in tall grass and neglected areas.
They grow mainly along paths, in fields, meadows, parks, and in some gardens. But they can also be found in cities, around trees.
When the grass starts to dry out in the sun, foxtails detach easily and cling to the fur of passing dogs. They can also get into the ears, nose, paw pads, or even under the skin, causing irritation, infections, and sometimes more serious complications like major surgeries.
Cyanobacteria
Cyanobacteria are bacteria that live in water, such as lakes, rivers, and oceans. They look like green algae on the surface and are often found in stagnant water. Their proliferation is favored by warm temperatures, strong sunlight, and low water circulation.
Cyanobacteria are dangerous for dogs because some produce powerful toxins that can cause severe poisoning in dogs that ingest the water where they are found.
High temperatures
High temperatures during periods of intense heat/heatwaves can lead to a risk of heatstroke.
Dogs do not tolerate heat well, as they hardly sweat. They dissipate heat by panting, but when it's too hot, this is no longer sufficient and they risk heatstroke, which can be very dangerous. It is preferable to seek shaded areas above 25°C.
So, how do you protect your dog from these dangers during outings?
For processionary caterpillars
Always analyze your surroundings. Check for pine trees and keep your distance. Keep an eye on the ground and keep your dog on a leash.
We can work on signal-based relinquishment in training, by teaching the commands "leave it" and "drop it". "Leave it" means "renounce what you see" and "drop it" means "renounce what you have in your mouth." We can work on this exercise with treats, for example.
Renunciation also means learning to pass by something, such as food, and not touching it without human authorization. This is called renunciation at the dog's initiative.
Note that this method takes longer to learn than "leave it" and "drop it."
These control methods minimize risks, but it is important to note that risk is always present and never zero.
For foxtails
We check the dog's fur at least after every walk, or even during the walk, using a brush suitable for their fur. They are harder to find on long-haired dogs than on short-haired dogs.
Don't forget to check risky areas where they can hide, such as the vulva (for females), anus, between the paw pads, ears, nostrils, gums, and of course, the rest of the body. Always stay attentive to your surroundings; you can secure your dog with a leash to maintain control. You can also use a snood to protect floppy ears, such as those of Cockers or Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, provided the dog is comfortable with it and it's not a constraint for them.
For cyanobacteria
Above all, avoid stagnant water.
You also need to be careful with certain rivers that don't have stagnant water, as there can be small accumulations of water on the riverbed. These accumulations will develop cyanobacteria, which can be carried by the flowing water and contaminate the dog if it encounters them. Of course, the risk is lower in such cases.
For heatstroke
It's better to avoid taking your dog out during high temperatures.
It's recommended to prioritize walks in cool, shaded areas. You also need to ensure they are always well-hydrated, so remember to always carry water with you in a water bottle, for example.
And for brachycephalic breeds, such as Pugs or French Bulldogs, extra vigilance is required, as they are more sensitive to high heat.
Currently, we are seeing cases of dog poisoning in Bordeaux and even in France. What signs indicate poisoning?
The first symptoms appear within minutes of contact.
Your dog may start trembling, have seizures, appear lethargic or, on the contrary, agitated. A sudden loss of appetite, excessive drooling, vomiting, or diarrhea are also signs not to be taken lightly.
It all depends, of course, on the toxin ingested; some cause more specific reactions. But in all cases, an unusual change in behavior should alert you.
If my dog shows worrying symptoms, what are the first steps to take to react quickly?
If you suspect your dog has been poisoned, the first thing to do is to go to the nearest vet as quickly as possible. Always remember to call them beforehand, in case they need to prepare something urgently or if they don't have space to see you. They can recommend a colleague in that case.
If your dog comes into contact with a processionary caterpillar
If he eats a processionary caterpillar
Rinse your dog's mouth thoroughly, directing the water downwards, and try to brush his tongue in the same direction. This is why it's important to always carry water with you; a water bottle is particularly recommended.
Do not let him drink: the idea is that he doesn't ingest water, because all the caterpillar hairs present on his tongue and in his muzzle could go down his throat and into his lungs, which would be extremely dangerous.
If he steps on a caterpillar
This can cause redness and skin problems, so always rinse thoroughly to prevent him from licking his paws and ingesting the caterpillar hairs. This case is less serious than ingestion, but must be treated as soon as possible.
For foxtails
The urgency depends on their location. Generally, if you didn't realize there was a foxtail, you'll find out when an infection occurs, when you see a lump appear on the skin's surface. This is the foxtail starting to penetrate under the dog's skin.
Aside from the pain, septicemia (blood poisoning) must be avoided, which can occur if treatment for the foxtail is delayed too long.
Don't worry, mortality cases related to foxtails are very rare, as they are often treated quickly. However, depending on their location, surgery can be more or less extensive and restrictive.
For cyanobacteria
Depending on the dog's fragility and the quantity ingested, symptoms can range from simple diarrhea and vomiting to death. Since it's difficult to know how much was ingested, prompt veterinary attention is highly recommended.
For heatstroke
Do not put your dog in cold water, as he risks thermal shock, which is very dangerous. You need to re-humidify him with lukewarm water, targeting the main arteries that cool the body, such as the groin. Also think about the paws and belly, but especially not the muzzle.
Veterinary care is essential, especially if the tongue turns blue: this is a sign of severe dehydration and a risk of organ failure.
In case of poisoning
Giving a gastric bandage can sometimes slow down the absorption of the toxin and allow a little more time for veterinary care.
Finally, always remain vigilant and well-informed about the dangers that may arise during your walks. Even if you take all precautions, there are always risks, but with a little attention and the right reflexes, you can truly protect your dog and offer him safe outings.
Find our selection of articles for good walks with your dog here!
