Screw worm inspections are a critical requirement for pet travel to many countries because these parasites pose serious health risks. Screw worms are fly larvae that infest warm-blooded animals, feeding on their living tissue and causing severe damage if untreated.
Countries free of screw worms enforce strict inspection requirements to prevent introducing this parasite. During an inspection, a veterinarian examines your pet thoroughly for any signs of infestation, particularly checking wounds or skin openings where flies might lay eggs.
These inspections must typically occur within a specific timeframe before travel (often 24–48 hours) to verify your pet isn't carrying this harmful parasite. The inspection safeguards both the destination country's livestock and wildlife populations and ensures your pet's health and wellbeing during travel.
If your destination requires a screwworm inspection, your licensed veterinarian performs it and documents the result. PadsPass helps you keep that documentation organized alongside the rest of your pet's travel records — start by completing your pet's profile with their microchip number, the date the microchip was first scanned, and their most recent rabies vaccination (the two most recent, if possible).
Requirements and timeframes vary by destination and can change, so confirm current rules with your airline and the destination's official animal import authority. Final acceptance of your pet and their documents rests with the airline and the destination authority.