By admin 
YUMA, AZ (AZFamily) — New guidance from U.S. and Mexican agriculture and health agencies is changing what travelers may need to do before crossing the border with a dog. This is due to concerns about the New World screwworm—a parasite most commonly seen in cattle that can also affect other animals.
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Officials say Arizona has not had a confirmed case of a dog infected with the parasite, but the U.S. Department of Agriculture and its Mexican counterpart say they are not taking any chances. Under the updated requirements, travelers could be prohibited from taking dogs into Mexico in some cases, and those returning to the U.S. with a dog may have to prove the animal is not infected.
In Rocky Point, Gina Benner, CEO of Barb’s Dog Rescue, said she frequently crosses at the Lukeville Port of Entry with rescue dogs. As of now, she hasn’t seen any new screening measures in practice.
“We are aware of it… We are aware of all the recent news in the last 48 hours about new requirements, and we are following it,” Benner said.
According to the U.S. Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, there are currently six confirmed cases of New World screwworm in Texas and New Mexico.
Benner added that despite what’s being reported, crossings with pets have not changed so far.
“That is what we are reading, but the actual experience is that there has been no actual change,” Benner said. “Bringing your pets into Mexico… it’s business as usual at the Lukeville border.”
What is the New World screwworm?
Benner explains that screwworms are the larvae of the New World screwworm fly. The larvae feed on living tissue and can enter an animal through open wounds—even small scratches—burrowing deeper as they grow.
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In dogs, signs can include:
- Painful wounds that won’t heal
- Swelling
- Loss of appetite
- Visible worms in a wound
Travelers and pet owners concerned
The issue is raising concerns for travelers who regularly cross the border with pets—including those who take their animals to Mexico for veterinary care.
Joel Beltran, a Yuma resident, says he crosses at the San Luis Port of Entry with his dog for vet visits, but worries what new rules could mean moving forward.
“It has become kind of concerning moving forward into the future… I don’t know if I will still be taking my dogs to Mexico for their vet visits,” Beltran said.
Potential impact on tourism
Concern over the screwworm has already affected the cattle industry, including restrictions that have prevented some U.S. ranchers from buying cattle from Mexico. Now, it appears the issue could also affect tourism, as many Americans travel to Mexican beach destinations with their pets.
For now, officials say travelers should stay up to date on border requirements before departing—especially if they plan to cross with a dog.
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