AnimalhealthEurope, FECAVA, FVE press release

Pet health advocates from around the world unite against the persistent threat of parasites to mark World Parasite Awareness Day.

20 March, Brussels – The Federation of European Companion Animal Veterinary Associations (FECAVA), the Federation of Veterinarians in Europe (FVE), and AnimalhealthEurope have joined together with more than 40 veterinary associations, parasitology organisations, and animal health groups from across the world to sign a Prevention Pledge, affirming our commitment to parasite prevention as a foundation of pet care, particularly as fleas, ticks, and worms spread into new regions.

The Pledge, published to mark World Parasite Awareness Day on 20 March, brings together signatories across five continents including the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA), American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), the U.S. Companion Animal Parasite Council (CAPC), and the European Scientific Counsel Companion Animal Parasites (ESCCAP). National veterinary groups, academic institutions, and others from across Brazil, Australia, Portugal, Canada, Germany, Spain, and beyond have also signed on.

The pledge comes as parasites remain a persistent, common risk for pets. For example, heartworm, a potentially fatal parasite transmitted through mosquito bites and which mainly affects dogs, has spread across Europe to previously unaffected areas. In the US, one million cases of heartworm are diagnosed every year.

Expert group forecasts show that the risk of parasites are growing this year in places like the U.S. and U.K., driven by climate change, pet travel, rehoming of animals from third countries, and changes in wildlife populations.

This presents a risk for people as several parasites that affect pets also carry diseases that can pass to people, including Lyme disease, canine anaplasmosis and leishmaniosis. It is the reason why the Prevention Pledge recognises that parasite prevention protects both pets and people.

The Pledge also highlights the central role of veterinarians as essential partners in providing risk-based advice for parasite prevention measures. Veterinarians understand the parasite threats in their area and can help pet owners develop a prevention strategy that matches their pet’s needs and ensures they remain protected against any potential risks.

“Parasites remain one of the most common and preventable health threats affecting companion animals in Europe. Regular veterinary guidance and tailored prevention plans are essential to protect pets throughout their lives. By supporting this Prevention Pledge, FECAVA reaffirms the important role of veterinarians in helping pet owners understand parasite risks and ensure their animals receive effective, responsible protection,” said Ann Criel, FECAVA President (Federation of European Companion Animal Veterinary Associations).

“Across Europe, parasites are spreading into regions where they were previously unknown. Veterinary testing and oversight are the cornerstone of effective prevention — we encourage all animal owners to work with their veterinarian on a prevention plan tailored to their animal’s individual risk. Let’s work together for sustainable, risk-based parasite prevention that protects our animals and our families,” said Nancy De Briyne, Executive Director, Federation of Veterinarians of Europe (FVE).

“Many of the most common parasites that affect pets can be prevented with appropriate treatment, which not only protects animals but also their owners and families. More than 40 of the world’s leading veterinary and animal health organisations have shown their support for parasite prevention, with veterinary guidance as the central reference to ensure prevention approaches remain appropriate, effective, and responsible,” said Roxane Feller, Director General of AnimalhealthEurope.

The Pledge and Signatories can be found at ParasiteAwarenessDay.com.

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About World Parasite Awareness Day

World Parasite Awareness Day is held annually on March 20, the first day of spring in the northern hemisphere, a time where parasite risk can rise for pets in many areas. The objective of the day is to raise awareness amongst pet owners and promote appropriate parasite control. For more information on the prevalence, risks and control of parasites in pets, visit the website of your local veterinary association or regional parasite council. Learn more about World Parasite Day at www.ParasiteAwarenessDay.com

• AnimalhealthEurope represents 14 of Europe’s leading manufacturers of animal health products and 16 national associations, representing large, medium-sized and small companies.
• FECAVA – Federation of Companion Animal Veterinary Associations represents more than 25,000 companion animal veterinarians in 40 European countries.
• FVE – Federation of Veterinarians of Europe is an umbrella organisation of veterinary organisations from 38 European countries. FVE represents through its members 330,000 veterinarians.