#United States #Salem #Companion Animal Parasite Council #Pet Disease Alerts #Parasitic Diseases

2025 Pet Parasite Forecast: Rising Threats to Pets and People

The Companion Animal Parasite Council (CAPC) has released its 2025 Pet Parasite Forecast, highlighting a growing danger from parasitic diseases like Lyme disease, heartworm, anaplasmosis, and ehrlichiosis. With over 10 million diagnostic tests analyzed annually, the forecast presents alarming insights into how these diseases are spreading across the United States and highlights the need for continuous vigilance.

Understanding the Threats

The CAPC report indicates that heartworm, primarily spread through mosquitoes, is increasingly prevalent in the southeastern United States. Regions along the Atlantic coast and north along the Mississippi River are identified as high-risk areas, underscoring the importance of preventative measures.

Ehrlichiosis, which is transmitted by ticks, also remains a significant concern, particularly in the Southeast, with its reach extending into the upper Midwest and New England. Anaplasmosis, another tick-borne illness, shows expansion trends as it moves south and west, marking the upper Midwest and northeastern states as particularly vulnerable.

Dr. Brian Herrin, the CAPC Board President, emphasizes the value of the CAPC maps, pointing out that they serve as essential resources for both pet owners and veterinarians. He notes that “these forecasts provide critical insights for both pet and public health,” stressing that knowing local risks can help prevent the alarming effects these diseases can have on pets and humans alike.

Why Year-Round Prevention Matters

The forecast reveals an ongoing geographic spread, mainly due to the changing populations of ticks and mosquitoes. With Lyme disease and anaplasmosis moving south and west, and heartworm becoming increasingly prevalent in the Southeast, pet owners must adopt year-round preventative actions. This includes using anti-parasitic treatments and maintaining routine veterinary checks.

Dr. Rick Marrinson, a CAPC board member, adds that these forecasts should prompt action from veterinarians and pet owners alike, especially in historically endemic regions. “It is vital to continually test and prevent these diseases,” he urges, highlighting the increasing health risks to both pets and their owners.

Public Health Implications

The report raises significant public health considerations, as infected dogs often indicate the extent of risk to humans in the same locales. Studies have shown that areas with high canine infection rates frequently correlate with increased risks for people, making it imperative for communities to respond proactively.

Dr. Christopher Carpenter, CEO of CAPC, states, “Dog health helps us predict human health,” emphasizing the importance of awareness and preventive care. As the forecasts cover local and annual predictions, they serve as critical tools for communities to mitigate these health threats.

Accessing the Monthly Forecasts

In addition to the annual forecast, CAPC offers free 30-Day Pet Parasite Forecasts via Pet Disease Alerts. This feature allows pet owners and veterinarians to access location-specific assessments of parasite threats. Monthly updates help track emerging risks, reminding pet owners of the need for ongoing preventive care and routine testing to protect themselves and their pets.

CAPC also provides daily flea forecasts, further aiding in the proactive management of parasitic challenges. These tools are essential for understanding and coping with the ongoing risks posed by parasites, providing a framework for better health for pets and their owners.

Scientific Support Behind Forecasts

The reliability of the CAPC Forecasts is backed by a robust scientific methodology that involves parasitologists and statisticians from leading academic institutions. The forecasts incorporate various factors, including temperature trends, precipitation patterns, and population density, ensuring factual accuracy in predictions about potential infections. More than a dozen peer-reviewed studies confirm the high precision of these forecasts, reinforcing their value in managing pet health.

About the Companion Animal Parasite Council

Founded in 2002, the Companion Animal Parasite Council is committed to protecting both pet and human health. By offering reliable information and guidance on managing internal and external parasites, CAPC works to support veterinary professionals and pet owners in combatting parasitic infections and reducing zoonotic disease risks.

To learn more about the CAPC and access vital resources, visit CAPC Vet.