New York Tightens Pet Import Rules for Screwworm Risk

By Blake Jackson

The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets (AGM) has updated its pet import requirements following the detection of the New World Screwworm (NWS) in Texas and New Mexico.

Under the revised rules, cats and dogs from affected or potentially affected areas may enter New York if they receive an FDA-approved treatment within 14 days before arrival. Other provisions of the state's import order remain in effect.

“The Department continuously evaluates its policies and animal health regulations to ensure it is responding proactively to any animal health threats and protecting the agricultural industry. We have been following the situation with NWS closely and determined these changes would allow rescue dogs and cats to come into New York State while still mitigating the potential spread of this invasive pest," State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball said.

"We still urge our livestock producers to watch for signs of illness in their animals and take preventative measures, such as tightening biosecurity on the farm and implementing on-farm conservation practices. Taking these extra steps now are critical to protecting animal health.”

The updated order also requires veterinary examinations, health certifications, and preventive treatments for animals arriving from impacted regions.

Domestic animals from confirmed infested areas cannot enter New York until the area is officially declared free of NWS and the animals have been inspected by an accredited veterinarian and confirmed free of infestation.

The New World Screwworm is a dangerous pest that threatens livestock, pets, wildlife, and, in rare cases, humans. Its larvae feed on living tissue, causing painful wounds and potentially significant economic losses if left untreated.

Although the USDA states there is no food safety concern and the current risk to people and animals in the United States remains low, AGM is working with state health and environmental agencies to monitor the situation.

Livestock producers and pet owners are encouraged to watch for draining wounds, expanding lesions, or maggots around the nose, ears, and navel, report suspected cases promptly, and strengthen farm biosecurity practices.

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