info@heartwormsociety.orgCartSign In

More than a million pets in the U.S. have heartworms. But heartworm disease is preventable.

True to its mission of leading the veterinary profession and public in understanding heartworm disease, the American Heartworm Society sponsors heartworm education and research.

2022 Heartworm Incidence Map

Are Heartworm Cases on the Rise?

The American Heartworm Society (AHS) has just released a new Heartworm Incidence Map, using data collected from veterinary practices and shelters across the U.S. The states with the highest density of heartworm cases continue to be in and adjacent to the lower Mississippi Delta (Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas, Alabama, and Arkansas), but survey results also indicate a troubling trend: that heartworm cases have continued to edge upward both in states with the highest heartworm rates and in regions that historically have enjoyed low rates. Meanwhile, roughly half of veterinarians from participating practices and shelters said that heartworm rates have stayed about the same (53%) or increased (29%) rather than decreased (17%).
Safely Transport Heartworm Positive Dogs

Safely transport heartworm-positive dogs

Rehoming. A move. Accompanying an owner on a trip. Such situations can mean that dogs diagnosed with heartworms must travel. The American Heartworm Society and the Association of Shelter Veterinarians recently released joint transport recommendations designed to safeguard the health of infected dogs while ensuring they do not become vectors for heartworm transmission.

Pet Owner Video Explaining Heartworm Disease

Search for heartworm resources

Looking for expert advice on treating complications of canine heartworm disease? Guidelines on feline heartworm diagnosis? A video or infographic to post on your clinic Facebook or Instagram page? Or a new exam room poster to print? Find the free heartworm resources you need in the AHS Heartworm Resource Center.

Heartworm Guidelines

Preventing, diagnosing and treating heartworms

The American Heartworm Society is the veterinary profession’s leading resource on heartworm information. Our guidelines for heartworm management in dogs and cats incorporate the latest science and expert recommendations.

Latest News