08/25/2026
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, it has been moving northward, and the first animal case in the current outbreak was confirmed in Texas on June 3, 2026.
The good news? Awareness, prevention, and early veterinary care can help protect your pets.
Help reduce your pet's risk by:
• 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.
• Checking your pet daily for cuts, sores, or skin changes
• Cleaning and monitoring wounds promptly
• Consulting 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 that news like this can feel concerning, but you don't have to navigate it alone. Our team is staying current on guidance from USDA APHIS, the FDA, and AVMA, and we're here to answer your questions, assess your pet's risk, and provide personalized recommendations.
If your pet is not currently on parasite preventatives, or if their protection has lapsed, contact us to discuss the best options for getting them back on track.
