08/06/2026
You may be hearing more about New World Screwworm (NWS), a parasitic fly whose larvae can infest wounds in warm-blooded animals, including dogs and cats. While NWS was eradicated from the United States decades ago, its northward movement brought to light the current outbreak that was confirmed in Texas on June 3, 2026.
The good news? Awareness, prevention, and early veterinary care can help protect your pets. Here's our recommendation for them:
• Keeping heartworm, flea, tick, and mite prevention up to date, as parasite bites can create entry points for infestation and pets not on preventatives are at higher risk.
• Check your pet daily for cuts, sores, or skin changes
• Clean and monitor wounds promptly
• Consult your veterinarian before traveling with your pet near or south of the U.S. border
Contact us right away if your pet has:
• A wound that is getting larger or deeper instead of healing
• A foul or unusual odor coming from a wound
• Visible larvae (maggots) in a wound
• Bloody or unusual discharge
• Unexplained pain, irritation, behavioral changes, or loss of appetite
We understand news like this can feel concerning, and we are here to help support you. Our team keeps current on guidance from USDA APHIS, the FDA, and AVMA, and we're here to answer your questions, assess your pet's risk, and work with you to keep your pets healthy.
If your pet is not currently on parasitic prevention, or if their protection has lapsed, we're here to help.
