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NewsWPLG Local 10 – Main FeedAugust 19, 2026Miami-Dade

States restrict Texas pet imports to prevent New World screwworm spread

Forty-four states have implemented new restrictions on the movement of dogs and cats from Texas to prevent the spread of the New World screwworm, a flesh-eating parasite. These transport bans and new veterinary certification requirements have caused overcrowding in Texas animal shelters, increasing the risk of euthanasia for thousands of animals.

animal welfarepublic healthagricultureborder securitypet adoption
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Why It Matters

The restrictions prevent Texas shelters from transferring animals to other states, forcing local facilities to manage significantly higher populations and increasing the likelihood of euthanasia for stray dogs and cats.

Key Facts

  • The New World screwworm has crossed the border from Mexico into the U.S. for the first time in 60 years.
  • 44 states have restricted the movement of pets from infested areas of Texas.
  • The U.S. Department of Agriculture is building a $750 million fly factory in southern Texas, scheduled to open in April 2027.
  • In 2025, Texas transferred nearly 89,000 dogs and 53,000 cats out of state shelters.
  • Texas euthanized approximately 45,000 dogs and 29,000 cats in 2025.
  • Some states have reduced the validity period for veterinary health certifications from 30 days to as little as three days.
  • The screwworm parasite can infect mammals by laying eggs that hatch into flesh-eating larvae in wounds or mucous.
  • The parasite threatens the $113 billion U.S. beef industry, leading to federal closures of the border to cattle movements.
  • Texas had approximately 439,000 stray dogs and cats in 2025.

Who's Mentioned

otherNew World screwworm“A flesh-eating parasite currently spreading in Texas and New Mexico.”organizationAmerican Society to Prevent Cruelty to Animals“Source of data regarding animal transfers and euthanasia.”organizationTexas Humane Legislation Network“Advocacy group for animal welfare laws.”organizationGulf Coast Humane Society“A shelter in Corpus Christi, Texas, affected by transport restrictions.”organizationU.S. Department of Agriculture“Federal agency managing screwworm eradication efforts.”organizationTexas Veterinary Medical Association“Professional association for veterinarians in Texas.”