SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (KY3) – The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission is asking the public not to attempt to treat free-ranging wildlife that may be infested with screwworms.
Why self-treatment is discouraged
State wildlife veterinarian Dr. Catherine Love said attempting to treat wildlife yourself may cause more harm than good. Improper dosages can cause parasites to become resistant to treatment and accelerate the spread of infestation.
Love also noted that medication can remain in an animal’s system for an extended period, which may pose a risk to humans who hunt and consume that animal.
Wildlife can manage parasites on their own
Love said wildlife are adapted to handle parasites and are resilient to them.
“They also, you know, they rub up against trees or they sit in water until the fleas and the ticks fall off of them,” Love said. “They have adaptive ways to manage their parasite loads. They’ll eat certain, um, leaves and, you know, they’ll kind of treat themselves. Certain bark on trees has anti-parasitic properties.”
How to help
The commission says the most effective way to help wildlife, including deer, is to report suspected cases. Residents can contact the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission’s Wildlife Health Hotline…