By the Numbers: Heartworm Infections Trending Upward

Banfield Pet Hospital recently conducted a survey that examined the state of heartworm prevalence in pets. Here is a look at some key statistics from the report.

1,000: U.S. dog and cat owners surveyed by Banfield had their pet medical record databases analyzed to gain insights on the state of heartworm prevalence in pets, including seasonal and local trends.

Nearly 40% of dog and cat owners don’t believe their pet is at risk of getting heartworms and nearly 30% said their pet is not on heartworm prevention, survey findings from Banfield reveal.

365-day prevention: According to the survey, 51% skip year-round, with 18% only using heartworm prevention for their pets during spring and summer months.

STATES WITH THE HIGHEST INCREASES AND DECREASES IN HEARTWORM CASES

(SEE THE GRAPHIC OF THE STATES ABOVE)

The major increases are in the west, midwest, and south.

Photo credit: istockphoto.com/ThamKC