Veterinarians encouraged to participate in 2025 heartworm survey

The American Heartworm Society (AHS) is calling on veterinarians nationwide to participate in the 2025 AHS Heartworm Incidence Survey, now open and accepting submissions. The survey provides critical data used to track heartworm disease trends across the United States and support effective client education and prevention strategies.

Since 2001, AHS has produced Heartworm Incidence Maps every three years using data submitted by veterinary practices and animal shelters. These maps are widely relied upon by veterinary professionals, animal welfare organizations, and the media to illustrate regional heartworm prevalence and identify shifts in disease distribution, including expansion into previously low-risk areas.

“Whether yours is a large or small practice—or whether you live in a warm- or cold-weather state—we urge you to submit your information,” said Marisa Ames, DVM, DACVIM (Cardiology), AHS president. “Every veterinary practice that submits data helps the AHS to create a more comprehensive and useful map, which in turn helps veterinarians provide valuable information to clients on the threat of heartworms in their practice areas.”

Ames emphasized that participation is important even for practices that see few or no heartworm cases. Clinics in all climates contribute essential data that improve understanding of regional risk and inform evidence-based recommendations for testing and prevention.

The online survey is brief and designed to be completed quickly. Only one submission per practice will be accepted. Participating veterinarians will also be eligible for a gift card drawing. Click here to go to the survey page. 

The deadline to submit survey data is February 14, 2026. Results will be used to develop the 2025 AHS Heartworm Incidence Map, which will be released publicly in April during Heartworm Awareness Month.

Veterinary professionals are encouraged to take a few minutes to share their clinic’s data and help ensure the most accurate and meaningful heartworm incidence information is available to the profession and the pet-owning public.

Founded in 1974, the American Heartworm Society is dedicated to advancing the understanding, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of heartworm disease through scientific leadership and professional education.

Photo credit: © Namscience + via iStock/Getty Images Plus

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. This article had editing assistance from an AI software.