TOULON, France – A newly opened dog daycare center in Toulon, France, has been forced to temporarily close its doors due to an infestation of pine processionary caterpillars, a hazardous species for canine health. Woof Haven, which opened in November 2023, announced the month-long closure on social media after discovering a procession of the caterpillars on the property.
The decision to close came despite previous efforts to mitigate the issue. According to a post on the center’s Facebook page, Woof Haven had contracted a specialized company to remove caterpillar nests in January and again on February 3rd, with 11 nests removed during the latter intervention. Still, a recent discovery of a “procession” – a line of caterpillars moving in single file – originating from outside the site prompted the more drastic measure.
“It is out of the question to take the slightest risk with the four-legged friends welcomed in daycare or for private lessons. Their safety comes first,” the center stated in a Facebook post. The closure is expected to last until mid-March.
A Growing Concern for Pet Owners
The 6,000-square-meter dog park, located west of Toulon near Ollioules, had quickly become a popular spot for dog owners. Ophélie, a local resident and owner of two Patou dogs, expressed her enjoyment of the facility, regularly bringing her dogs, Billy and Manille, to play. However, the presence of the processionary caterpillars poses a significant threat to canine health.
Pine processionary caterpillars are known for their irritating hairs, which can cause severe allergic reactions in dogs if they come into contact with the mouth, eyes, or skin. According to France Bleu, these caterpillars are increasingly common in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region.
Previous Setbacks for the Novel Facility
This isn’t the first challenge Woof Haven has faced since its opening. The park sustained damage during a storm in September, requiring repairs before it could open its doors. The recent caterpillar infestation adds another layer of difficulty for the new business.
The center declined to comment further on the situation when contacted.
What are Pine Processionary Caterpillars?
Pine processionary caterpillars are the larvae of the pine hawk-moth. They get their name from the way they move in head-to-tail processions, typically in the spring. The caterpillars are covered in tiny, barbed hairs that contain a venomous irritant. While generally harmless to humans, these hairs can cause significant pain, swelling and even necrosis in dogs if ingested or if they come into contact with sensitive areas.
The caterpillars typically build large, silken nests in pine and oak trees, resembling cotton wool. These nests are often visible from a distance, but the caterpillars themselves can be difficult to spot, blending in with the ground.
Woof Haven is expected to reopen in mid-March, pending further assessment of the caterpillar situation. Dog owners in the Toulon area are advised to be vigilant and take precautions to protect their pets from these hazardous insects. Updates will be posted on the center’s Facebook page.
If you are a dog owner in the Toulon area, please remain vigilant and monitor your pet for any signs of irritation or discomfort. For more information on pine processionary caterpillars and how to protect your dog, consult your veterinarian or visit the France Bleu article.
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