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What to know about protecting pets from the New World screwworm fly
By Associated Press at Odessa American (oaoa.com)
· July 8, 2026
· 4 min read
By JOHN HANNA
The Associated Press
Two New World screwworm cases in dogs are among more than 30 confirmed instances in Texas and New Mexico, prompting warnings Wednesday from veterinarians and humane societies that pet owners need to remain vigilant to protect their animals.
The parasite reappea...
Key takeaway in June, more than 50 years after it had been largely eradicated from the country.
Why this matters in The Odessa
The reappearance of the New World screwworm fly in Texas and New Mexico poses a significant threat to pets in the Odessa area, particularly those with open wounds or recent medical procedures. As the fly's larvae can infest any mammal, local pet owners should be vigilant in monitoring their animals for signs of infestation, such as restlessness, bad smell, or maggots in wounds. The Odessa community's proximity to the affected areas in southern and southwestern Texas makes it crucial for residents to take preventive measures, including regular examinations of their pets for wounds, cuts, and bites. Local veterinarians and animal shelters can provide guidance on protecting pets from this parasite, and pet owners should not hesitate to seek medical attention if they suspect an infestation, as prompt treatment can prevent serious harm or even death. Regular checks and awareness can help mitigate the risk to pets in the area.
About this story
Original reporting by Odessa American (oaoa.com) . The Odessa surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit Odessa American (oaoa.com) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: July 8, 2026 ·
Source: Odessa American (oaoa.com) ·
Reading time: 4 min
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What is this story about? By JOHN HANNA
The Associated Press
Two New World screwworm cases in dogs are among more than 30 confirmed instances in Texas and New Mexico, prompting warnings Wednesday from veterinarians and humane societies that pet owners need to remain vigilant to protect their animals.
The parasite reappea...
When was this published? This article was first published on July 8, 2026 by Odessa American (oaoa.com) and curated for The Odessa readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Associated Press at Odessa American (oaoa.com). To learn more about how The Odessa selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from The Odessa, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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