Summer show season means thousands of livestock will cross state lines as families head to junior nationals, breed shows, and state fairs. While the focus is on competition, animal health and travel requirements deserve equal attention. This year, producers should pay particular attention to interstate movement requirements and the evolving New World Screwworm (NWS) situation which is dynamic and changing daily.

Know Before You Go—Interstate Travel Requirements

Every state has regulations for importing livestock across their borders, which include a Certified Veterinary Inspection (CVI) also known as health papers. This will need to be performed by a USDA accredited veterinarian before heading out on the trip. Certain regulations may take multiple days to complete, so plan ahead to prevent unnecessary stress. It is important to stay up to date on interstate livestock movement because NWS may change the guidelines. 

If Leaving Nebraska:

• Verify destination state requirements by contacting the appropriate state animal health department. A summary of state regulations can be found at https://www.interstatelivestock.com/ and by contacting your veterinarian.
• A PDF list of state animal health officials can be found here.
• Exhibitions and shows may have additional requirements. Contact the show director about health regulations and rules.
• Domestic pets (dogs and cats) also require CVI’s to cross state lines. Regulations can be found at https://www.interstatelivestock.com/ and by contacting your veterinarian.

If entering/returning to Nebraska:

• Nebraska Livestock Import Requirements can be found at https://nda.nebraska.gov/animal/imports/import-requirements
• For travel lasting more than five days, it is recommended that an additional CVI occur prior to returning home. Contact your state animal health department for guidance.

Why Producers Should Pay Attention

Show animals travel extensively and often commingle with animals from multiple states. While Nebraska is not currently affected by New World Screwworm, heightened awareness is important because livestock movement can increase disease risk and early detection is critical for successful control efforts. 

Possible Signs of New World Screwworm

• Non-healing wounds 
• Depression, restlessness or discomfort
• Foul-smelling lesions 
• Presence of maggots in living tissue 
• Animals showing pain, irritation around wounds, shaking head.

Any suspicious cases should be reported immediately to a veterinarian or animal health officials. Early detection remains one of the most important tools in preventing spread. 

Daily Biosecurity Practices Check List

Before Leaving Home:

• Contact your veterinarian to schedule your health paper exam.
• Do not transport sick animals. 
• Clean and disinfect trailers and equipment. 
• Pack health paperwork and identification records.

At the Show:

• Avoid sharing equipment whenever possible. 
• Use your own water buckets and feed tubs. 
• Monitor animals daily for illness, injury, or unusual wounds. 
• Isolate animals showing signs of disease. 

Returning Home:

• Clean off all organic matter or soil on your shoes prior to leaving.
• Fly spray or insect spray will help deter insects from catching a ride home.
• Examine tack and luggage before returning home.
• Observe animals closely after returning. 
• Consider an isolation period before reintroducing animals to the herd. 
• Contact your veterinarian if concerns arise.

Summer livestock exhibitions provide excellent opportunities for youth and families. Remaining vigilant and aware during summer travels will help safeguard the health of Nebraska’s livestock industry.