Texas shelters warn bans and vet-only meds could force euthanasia in screwworm fight

AUSTIN, Texas — Animal shelters in Texas are beginning to worry about the growing New World screwworm infestation.

Of the 12 confirmed screwworm cases across the country, 11 are in Texas. Austin Pets Alive!, a local nonprofit animal shelter, has been redesigning its system after Gov. Greg Abbott declared a state of disaster in response to the growing infestations. The organization worries it will soon exhaust its resources in trying to combat the flesh-eating parasite.

Ellen Jefferson, a veterinarian and CEO of Austin Pets Alive!, said she suspects the infestation will become worse than it already is…

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