General · Texas behavioral health news
Vet offices crowding up as screwworm fears grow, but services are limited - BorderReport
Texas HHSC (Google News) · June 11, 2026
In plain language
Texas veterinary offices are seeing more visitors as concerns grow over the New World screwworm, a dangerous parasite that can harm pets, livestock, and even people. These parasitic flies lay eggs in open wounds and can cause fatal infections if not treated quickly. Because dozens of Texas counties lack a local veterinarian, some leaders are pushing for laws that would allow pet owners to use video or phone calls to get medical advice for their animals.
AI-generated summary of the source article. Not medical advice.
Key takeaways
- Screwworms are dangerous parasites that eat live flesh and can lead to death within two weeks.
- Data from 2025 shows that 37 out of 254 Texas counties do not have a local veterinarian.
- Wait times at veterinary clinics are increasing as more owners seek screenings for their animals.
- A proposed Texas bill to allow veterinary telemedicine failed due to concerns about fraud and monitoring.
- If treated early, veterinarians can prescribe medications to stop screwworm infections.
Vet offices crowding up as screwworm fears grow, but services are limited BorderReport
Need to talk to someone in Texas? Browse Texas-licensed telehealth therapists. In crisis, call or text 988.