New World screwworm can infect pets; local vet says some preventative medicines already offer protection

What pet owners need to know about New World screwworm

Screwworm, a flesh-eating parasite that can be fatal if untreated, has re-entered the US Southwest for the first time since the 1970s.

New World screwworm can infect pets; local vet says some preventative medicines already offer protection

Any warm-blooded animal can get infected with the New World screwworm including cats and dogs.Dr. Danielle Wallek, veterinarian with Animal Medical Corpus Christi says pet owners should check their animals for any wounds that might have larvae, but also check around the eyes, nose and ears where mucus membranes could be affected.The good news, Wallek said, is that many preventative medicines pets might already be on can protect against the New W…