Waco Receives 32,000 Doses Of NexGard To Fight New World Screwworm Threat

The City of Waco is proactive in the fight against the New World Screwworm in Central Texas.

Waco Accepts $600K Medication Donation to Battle Screwworm Threat

In a proactive move to safeguard local livestock and pets, the Waco City Council officially accepts a shipment of 32,000 NexGard doses valued at nearly $600,000. The pharmaceutical contribution comes via the Bissell Pet Foundation in collaboration with drug manufacturer Boehringer-Ingelheim. Pet Circle Animal Center plans to spearhead the distribution effort by teaming up with the Animal Birth Control Clinic to supply these preventive treatments to vulnerable pets and residents throughout the community.

 Read More:   Not Just Livestock: Dangerous Screwworm Parasite Infects A Dog in Texas

The New World Screwworm Causes Major Damage

The drug shipment follows growing concerns over the New World Screwworm, a destructive parasitic insect. Female screwworm flies seek out open sores, ranging from minor tick bites to festering injuries, to lay their eggs. Once hatched, the aggressive larvae burrow into exposed tissue, killing the surrounding tissue.

The New World Screwworm by The Numbers

While federal agricultural records indicate 45 total cases nationwide since early June, Texas currently manages five active incidents, including a recent infection identified in a Terrell County sheep. Though McLennan County has yet to report a single positive case, local officials are taking no chances, as the pest can easily target domestic cats and dogs alongside standard livestock.

Pet Circle's Screwworm Safety Measures

Pet Circle is updating its shelter practices by placing incoming animals on NexGard and instituting rigorous physical screenings. Shelter intake staff will carefully inspect animals for open injuries and evaluate medical histories for underlying conditions like seizures before administering any medication.

How Did Pet Circle Obtain the Medication?

Pet Circle’s previous collaboration with the Bissell Pet Foundation on spay-neuter campaigns helped secure the city's selection for this donation. In the meantime, local authorities strongly encourage pet owners, especially those with long-haired breeds, to regularly inspect their animals for hidden injuries, maintain consistent pest prevention measures, and consult a veterinarian right away if a parasitic infection is suspected.