Horton Holistic Veterinary Services

06/09/2026

⚠️ New World Screwworm update:

There are now four confirmed New World Screwworm cases in Texas, with the most recent involving a goat in Gillespie County.

USDA has also confirmed a case in a dog in Lea County, New Mexico. The dog was taken for treatment to a veterinary clinic in Andrews, Texas. The astute DVM suspected NWS and collected samples for submission. However, because the dog lives in NM, the case is considered NM’s first case.

Stay alert and protect your animals. Report any concerns to your veterinarian immediately.

Read more ➡️ https://www.aphis.usda.gov/news/agency-announcements/usda-confirms-first-case-new-world-screwworm-dog-lea-county-new-mexico

For the latest updates, visit:
➡️ www.tahc.texas.gov/emergency/nws.html

➡️ www.screwworm.gov

Wreck ‘Em Tech!

06/08/2026

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) confirmed the detection of a New World screwworm (NWS) in a bovine in Zavala County, Texas. NWS is a serious pest that affects livestock, pets, wildlife, and less commonly, people and birds. NWS larvae (maggots) burrow into the flesh of living animals, causing serious damage to livestock.

USDA urges residents in the area to check their pets and livestock for signs of NWS. Look for draining or enlarging wounds and signs of discomfort. Also look for screwworm larvae and eggs in or around body openings, such as the nose, ears, and genitalia. If you suspect your animal is infected with screwworm, contact your state animal health official or USDA area veterinarian in charge immediately.

06/06/2026

I know some of our trailers make it difficult, but if you have the ability to allow your horse to move their head down, it is much better for their breathing.

06/05/2026

Good article that discusses some things to watch out for as we face this threat:

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has provided an important update on New World Screwworm which has been detected in a bovine in Zavala County, Texas. Read the full press release here: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/news/agency-announcements/usda-confirms-presence-new-world-screwworm-united-states

General information about New World Screwworm (NWS) can be found in the text below and in the attached infographic.

The adult screwworm fly is about the size of a common housefly (or slightly larger), with orange eyes, a metallic blue or green body, and three dark stripes along its back. It gets its name from the behavior of its larvae (maggots) as they burrow (screw) into the wound, feeding as they go. The maggots (larvae) cause extensive damage by tearing at the hosts’ tissue with sharp mouth hooks. The wound can quickly become enlarged and deeper as more maggots hatch and feed on living tissue.

Because they feed on live flesh, NWS maggots may burrow deep into wounds or openings, while other species of maggots may appear around the outer surface of the wound. In addition, even the smallest wounds have the potential to attract flies, so it is imperative that you keep a close eye on your animals for any signs of wounds.

Lastly, NWS infestations are a reportable disease! Immediately report any suspicious wounds, maggots, or infestations to a local accredited veterinarian, your State Animal Health Official, or a USDA veterinarian.

For more information, reference this resource from the U.S. Department of Agriculture: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/animals/animal-health/livestock-and-poultry-disease/stop-screwworm

06/04/2026

Reach out to your veterinarian if you see anything suspicious. Keep wounds extra clean and covered. Take measures to control flies.

On June 3, 2026, the Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) received confirmation of a detection of New World screwworm (NWS) in Zavala County, Texas. The best thing that livestock producers and animal owners can do to prevent infestation is to put eyes on their animals as often as possible, remain vigilant by implementing enhanced management practices to avoid creating wounds, and promptly report suspicious wounds.

Find real-time updates here: https://bit.ly/USDA-NWSCurrentStatus
Find Texas-specific resources here: https://bit.ly/TAHC-NWS

06/02/2026

They are coming.

NWS found on a sheep about 30 miles from Del Rio. Other cases were seen in cattle about 60 miles from Zapata. I was told verbally by a state source that it has also been seen about 30 miles from Eagle Pass (This one has not been reported yet.).

05/28/2026

It turns out that Jessica, aka “the equine massage guru”, has all sorts of talents. Check out the nifty flyers she whipped up. 😱💕

05/27/2026

We’ll be again joining the equine massage guru, Jessica, to offer services at Agape Equine Ranch LLC on the afternoon of June 2nd. Please reach out to book.

05/27/2026

We are feeling so blessed by our patients, clients, and the much needed rain. ⛈️🌈🏇🏼