Cicadas in Nashville and Dogs
Nashville, the cicadas are coming, and they will be everywhere this year. The major news about this natural event is that in 2024, there will be a dual cicada brood emergence, where 13-year cicadas (Brood XIX) and 17-year cicadas (Brood XIII) will come out of the ground and enjoy Spring as well.
In Tennessee: It will be Brood XIX that will be joining and spending some time around us. However, if you are not particularly fond of cicadas, the state to avoid traveling to is Illinois, where both broods will be emerging simultaneously, an event that has yet to be seen since 1803.
In Nashville: As you can see on the map shared by the US Department of Agriculture, the state's center is conspicuously bare and not colored. This is because here in the city, cicadas have a hard time enjoying the outdoors due to the lack of infrastructure (more buildings than green areas). This is not to say you won't be able to hear or be surrounded by them. You will.
Now, next year is an entirely different story. If you look at the map again, you will see all surrounding counties around Davidson are shaded lime-green. This is because Brood XIV is expected to emerge. Now, that will be a sight to see, but it won't come close to what we are expected to experience this year. Get ready for it.
But let's worry about this year for now. Here are quick answers to the 3 most common questions dog parents have about these loud Spring buddies:
Do cicadas bite?
No, cicadas are peaceful for the most part and only come out of the ground to mate, molt, and die. It is not a particularly interesting life story, but who are we to have a say in nature's own ways?
What happens if my dog eats a cicada?
If your dog eats a cicada or two here or there, he or she may suffer from a tummy ache that may cause vomiting. However, if your furry old pal goes to town and has what may be considered a full plate of protein, it is probable that this may cause some painful gastrointestinal issues, and a visit to the veterinarian might be in order.
Can I apply something to the coat to keep them away from my dog?
Sadly, no. Although many companies also emerge along with the cidadas to sell so-called topical remedies including shampoos and collars, the reality is they don't work. The best defense is to keep your dog indoors if you are unable to keep them in a protected area like a covered porch.
