How to prevent and treat your pet from screwworm
The Texas Tribune • • general
Key Points:
- The New World screwworm outbreak has been confirmed in seven cases across Texas and New Mexico, affecting livestock and a dog, raising concerns about risks to pets.
- The parasitic fly targets any warm-blooded animal with wounds or openings, laying eggs that hatch into maggots feeding on living tissue, which can be fatal if untreated.
- Symptoms in pets include discomfort, foul-smelling discharge, restlessness, and unusual behavior; early veterinary intervention is crucial for effective treatment using larvicides and insecticides.
- Pet owners should regularly inspect their animals for wounds, maintain good hygiene, implement fly control, and establish a relationship with a veterinarian to ensure prompt diagnosis and treatment.
- Stray animals and wildlife are also at risk; sightings of infected wildlife should be reported to authorities, and caretakers of strays should monitor and report symptoms to animal control.