Import Restrictions for Dogs and Cats in Minnesota Due to New World Screwworm
ST. PAUL, Minn. (KTTC) – The New World Screwworm (NWS) is now affecting Minnesota, leading to new import restrictions for dogs and cats from infested areas.
On Tuesday, the Minnesota Board of Animal Health announced measures to prevent NWS spread after the discovery of maggots in Texas and New Mexico. Here are the key requirements for bringing pets into Minnesota from affected states:
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Import Ban: Animals from active NWS sites as designated by the USDA are not allowed entry into Minnesota. Imports from USDA-active case states can occur if specific conditions are met.
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Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI): A CVI must be issued by an accredited veterinarian within 72 hours prior to transport. This certificate, valid for seven days, must confirm the animal is free of NWS.
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Vaccination Certificate: Pet owners must email a valid rabies vaccination certificate or pet passport to the Board of Animal Health at pet.travel.bah@state.mn.us at least three days before arrival in Minnesota.
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NWS Treatment: An EPA- or FDA-approved NWS treatment must be administered to pets, with details logged in the CVI and emailed to the Board within five days of departure.
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Quarantine: All animals will undergo a minimum five-day quarantine upon arrival. Board staff will verify adherence to quarantine rules.
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Non-compliance: Animals failing to meet import requirements can expect a ten-day quarantine and must be examined by a licensed veterinarian to confirm they are NWS-free.
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Reporting Symptoms: If any signs of NWS appear during quarantine, immediate notification to pet.travel.bah@state.mn.us is required.
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