Sheriffs recently seized a trailer carrying six horses near Redford, Texas.
They illegally crossed the Rio Grande from Mexico, where they bypassed veterinary inspections, quarantine measures, and health certifications that is required for livestock.
According to Reuters, smuggled animals are becoming possible hosts for New World Screwworm, as the parasite began infesting U.S. cattle earlier this summer. USDA officials and experts said smuggled animals range from high-value horses to dogs used in illegal fighting rings and cattle.
The horses were not infested, but it raises questions about how the U.S. is enforcing response to the threat.
Story via Cassandra Garrison with Reuters
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USDA Under Secretary Dudley Hoskins discusses cattle port safeguards, screwworm surveillance, and plans to expand sterile fly production in Texas.
Planes are dispersing sterile flies in targeted areas of Mexico and New Mexico
Cattle movement is expected to increase gradually as additional crossing locations reopen.
Horse exports through the Del Rio facility may resume while New World screwworm safeguards remain in place.
