Clinical
Resources for educating, preventing, and treating heartworm
April is recognized as National Heartworm Awareness Month. We’ve put together a list of resources offered by AAHA and others to brush up on the latest information around heartworm.
From understanding heartworm resistance trends to the latest information other trusted organizations are putting out on heartworm, we’ve compiled a list of resources for reading to further understand the state of heartworm in 2025.
Resources:
JAAHA – Heartworm Microfilaria in Urine
Microfilaria are early, pre-larval stage of parasitic roundworms, and are usually found in the blood of infected hosts. But rarely, they can also be found in a urine sample. It is never a good sign.
Trends in canine heartworm resistance
Heartworm resistance isn’t as prevalent as it once was, but genetic variation and human activity may change that in the future. And with an uptick of heartworm-positive cases in unusual locations, it’s more important than ever to educate and encourage clients about year-round heartworm prevention.
My feline medicine notes from VMX 2025
Looking for some feline medicine treatment pearls? Here’s what some of the experts who spoke at the Veterinary Meeting and Expo (VMX) conference in January 2025 had to say about ways to treat common feline diseases and keep your feline patients as healthy as possible.
The latest recommendations from the AHS on heartworm infection in cats, including the recommendation for annual heartworm testing and year-round prevention in all cats.
American Heartworm Society resource page
A compilation of AHS resources, including guidelines published in a variety of languages.
Companion Animal Parasite Council (CAPC) website
Guidelines, parasite prevalence maps, parasite forecasts, and expert articles on heartworm infection in dogs and cats along with other parasites and vector-borne diseases.
From the AAHA Store: Heartworm Disease in Pets
The importance of year-round parasite prevention for pets
A client-facing article that covers heartworms along with other internal and external parasites, emphasizing the risks they pose and reasons to continue prevention throughout the year regardless of geographical location, lifestyle, or climate.
Photo credit: Namscience via iStock/Getty Images
Disclaimer: Trends content is meant to inform, educate, and inspire by providing an array of diverse viewpoints. Any content published should not be viewed as an official stance, position, or endorsement by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) or its Board of Directors.
