What happens when a livestock threat once thought eradicated begins moving north toward Texas?
On this episode of Texas Talks, host Brad Swail sits down with Dr. Lori Teller, licensed veterinarian and Executive Director of the Texas Veterinary Medical Association (TVMA), to discuss the growing concern surrounding New World screwworm, the state of veterinary medicine in Texas, rural veterinarian shortages, telemedicine, and the future of animal health.
Dr. Teller explains how New World screwworm infestations threaten livestock, wildlife, pets, and even humans, and why state and federal agencies are working urgently to prevent its spread throughout Texas and the United States.
The conversation covers:
• What New World screwworm is and how it spreads
• Why the threat has returned after decades of containment
• Sterile fly programs and eradication efforts
• The potential impact on Texas agriculture and food production
• How pet owners should respond to suspicious wounds
• State and federal coordination to contain outbreaks
• Rural veterinarian shortages across Texas
• Student debt and workforce challenges in veterinary medicine
• The Rural Veterinarian Incentive Program
• Veterinary telemedicine and its limitations
• Artificial intelligence in veterinary practice
• Priorities for the upcoming Texas legislative session
Dr. Teller also discusses how veterinary medicine extends far beyond dogs and cats, encompassing livestock, wildlife, public health, food safety, and emergency response efforts that are critical to Texas' economy and agricultural sector.
The discussion explores the challenges of attracting veterinarians to rural communities, where shortages can impact ranchers, farmers, and animal owners across large geographic regions.
The episode concludes with a look at how technology, telemedicine, and artificial intelligence are beginning to transform veterinary care while reinforcing the importance of maintaining strong veterinary networks throughout Texas.
00:00 — Intro + Meet Dr. Lori Teller
01:44 — Veterinary specialties and career paths
03:44 — What is New World screwworm?
06:50 — Why screw worm has returned
09:52 — Sterile fly facilities and containment efforts
11:30 — Worst-case scenarios for Texas agriculture
14:00 — State and federal response efforts
16:13 — Current screwworm cases in Texas
17:52 — What pet owners should do
20:15 — Rural veterinarian shortages
24:18 — The Rural Veterinarian Incentive Program
29:16 — Veterinary telemedicine explained
37:58 — Artificial intelligence in veterinary medicine
41:11 — Priorities for the next legislative session
41:48 — Closing thoughts