CAVE PETS

"Spain has some of the best vets in Europe"

Spain does have a reputation for lets say, not regarding pets as us northern Europeans do. This is just a reputation however and we have found that pets are (in most cases) highly valued and regarded in our area. One concern we had bringing our German Shepherd over with us were vet facilities. Before leaving the UK our vet said that Spain "has some of the best vets in Europe" we cannot argue with this having had experiences with the vetinary system over here.

Our local biggest town has a family run vetinary who are way beyond competent and speak good English. There are also vets in many local villages and many pet stores, these do tend to be limited but do sell the basics.

If you intend to keep your dog on Hills science diet or your cat on Iams then you will have to import it, order online or drive to a major city. Many equivalent premium foods are available though ranging from pups/kittens to senior foods. Our equestrian friends are more than catered for both with feeds and accessories as is the humble canary…

If you plan to bring a family pet over with you check up with pet passports and contact DEFRA at least 6 months before you leave, then contact your vet in the UK to explain the procedure. Once here cats and dogs to tend to manage well, we were worried about the heat but with a cave and plenty of shade it poses little problem.

It is worth doing some research or asking your current vet on diseases specific to Spain. There are also different vaccination procedures is Spain.

Adoption

Intentional or not one day you may well have a visitor with sad eyes begging for some food or a warm bed. Ultimately this is the cave owners choice but be aware that with these new found friends come bills. It is hard and in certain barrios locals may even knock on your door and try to sell puppies.

Dangers

While your pet may enjoy its new life in rural Andalucia there are some dangers to be aware of. Spanish dogs for example appear to be as "hard as the hammers" left to fend for themselves (and generally do so with success) Their immune systems will certainly more adapted to what inland Spain has to offer with regard to diseases and other les than pleasant conditions that may arise as a result.

Pets from England will have their vaccinations from the vet as part of the pet passport procedure but there are certain bugs and insects that can adversely effect your pet depending on the amount and frequency of exposure they may obtain.

Fleas and Tapeworm

Fleas harbour tapeworm. Fleas are quite common in rural areas and it would be fair to assume any Spanish farm/stray dog or cat you are not familiar with will have fleas. Its important to keep up to date the right medication at regular intervals. Tip: it may not be necessary to go to the vets for medication as your local chemist will more than likely sell worming tablets etc

Ticks

A tick can cause serious problems with your pet through the transmission of disease. In some cases this can be fatal. Your vet can advise you on preventative measures, with prevention being better than the cure it is good practice to keep a watch full eye out for the presence of ticks on your pets.

Heartworm

Heartworm is common in Spain unlike the UK and can unfortunately be fatal. Dogs will have little resistance to heartworm if they have arrived from a northern European country. Preventative medicine can be administered before you enter Spain which is advisable.

The Processional Pine Caterpillars

A special mention for these caterpillars - they are less than pleasant and very dangerous to pets (and children).

They are so named as they form a procession and walk in a long line which can be meters long. They are black and white in colour and you may see them in two different ways: In a white sac which has been formed in a pine tree (see photo) or "marching" along the ground. Do not touch them yourself and keep inquisitive pets well away. It is best to avoid pine forests altogether during the months of February, March and April with dogs. The reason being that dogs sniff the ground and if any of the hairs from these caterpillars come in contact with the dog problems will arise.

The hairs on the caterpillar remain dangerous even after the creature is dead. The effect on pets can be serious as well as on children and adults, a severe rash, shock, and tremendous irritation can result. If you have a pine tree in your garden which has become infested it is best to burn the sac but great caution is required, if in any doubt contact an expert.

All in all this part of Andalucia has good veterinary practices, adequate pet related supplies and certainly plenty of walks in the fresh air. Fido will love it!