Arizona Officials Urged Pet Caution Due to Screwworm

Wildlife agencies warned pet owners to avoid travel to Mexico following detection of a parasite in Sonora.

Updated on Oct. 8, 2026 in Pet Health

Bold vector editorial illustration of a pet collar sitting on a desert rock, conveying caution regarding pet health and travel. — Arizona wildlife officials are advising pet owners to leave their animals at home when traveling to Mexico following reports of the screwworm parasite. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Do you think it is currently too risky to travel internationally with your pets?

Arizona wildlife officials have advised travelers to leave pets at home when visiting Mexico after the New World screwworm was detected in Sonora. The parasite, which burrows into the flesh of animals, was also identified in Grant County, New Mexico, earlier this year.

Why it matters

The New World screwworm poses a significant health risk to pets and the livestock industry. Officials are working to prevent the spread of the parasite into Arizona following reports of a case just 50 miles from the state border.

The New World screwworm, which can infest wounds and burrow into tissue, was confirmed in Sonora, Mexico. A previous screwworm outbreak in Texas in 1976 resulted in an economic impact of $375 million.

The players

Arizona wildlife officials

These state authorities are responsible for managing wildlife health and issuing safety guidance to residents.

The details

The parasite infects animal wounds by burrowing into the flesh, creating a high risk of severe injury. Pets that travel between Arizona and Mexico are now subject to mandatory veterinary inspections and treatments.

A major screwworm outbreak in Texas occurred in 1976.
A ban on cattle imports from Mexico was lifted in August 2026.
A U.S. case was reported in Grant County, New Mexico, in September 2026.

Culture Shift

The current alert mirrors the historical risks associated with the 1976 Texas screwworm outbreak, which caused a $375 million economic impact. Authorities are attempting to prevent a similar systemic crisis by restricting pet travel.

Pet owners living in Arizona should avoid taking animals on trips to Mexico to prevent accidental exposure to the parasite. Those who must travel with pets are required to undergo specific veterinary inspections and treatments upon returning to the state.

The takeaway

Travelers should prioritize pet safety by leaving animals at home during the current parasite alert. Monitoring pets for open wounds and seeking immediate veterinary attention can help mitigate the risk of infection.