The Idaho State Department of Agriculture has issued a warning to pet owners about the threat of New World Screwworm, a parasite that can infect dogs and cats. The department is requiring a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection for animals entering the state.

What is the New World Screwworm?

The New World Screwworm is a parasite that can infect livestock and pets, causing significant harm. According to Scott Leibsle, Idaho state veterinarian, "Dogs and cats are just as susceptible to the pest as livestock, but pet owners may be less aware of the importance of thoroughly inspecting their pets for fly larvae that are very small and easy to miss."

Experts believe that if the threat is dealt with now, beef prices will not spike. The challenge is whether or not neutered flies can be produced enough to wipe out the screwworms already in America.

What Idaho is Doing to Prevent the Screwworm

The Idaho State Department of Agriculture is taking steps to prevent the spread of the screwworm, including requiring a health certificate for pets traveling to states affected by the parasite. Pet owners who travel with their pets to these states will be required to get a health certificate from a veterinarian in that state within 5 days of their return to Idaho.

Original reporting: 580 KIDO Talk Radio (Boise) — read the source article.