New AAHA Guidelines Name 12 Emerging Parasites in Pets
AAHA's free 2026 guidelines cover 12 emerging parasites in dogs and cats. See what drives their spread and what to ask your veterinarian.
The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) has published the 2026 AAHA One Health Guidelines: Emerging Concerns in Canine and Feline Parasitology. The document names 12 emerging parasites of greatest concern in dogs and cats and lists nine more that may become a concern. It is a free resource written mainly for veterinary teams, but its advice affects how your vet talks to you about parasite protection.
What the guidelines cover
The guidelines focus on practical steps for veterinary teams. They cover how to recognize each parasite, which diagnostic tests to choose, how to treat infections and how to explain the issues to pet owners. Together, the two groups cover the 12 parasites of greatest concern and the nine additional ones of potential concern.
Why new parasites are appearing
The authors point to four main drivers behind the emergence of parasites:
- More use of antiparasitic drugs, and resistance to them.
- Changes in the environment and in the animals themselves.
- More movement and interaction between animals.
- Better detection, thanks to surveillance and improved diagnostic technology.
The last point is worth noting. Some parasites may seem new partly because vets are now better at finding them.
A One Health approach
The guidelines urge veterinary teams to follow a One Health approach. In plain terms, this means treating the health of pets, people and the environment as linked. Recommendations include applying drug stewardship principles, which means using antiparasitic medicines carefully so they keep working. Teams are also asked to recognize diseases that may have to be reported and to choose suitable diagnostic tests.
The guidelines also address zoonotic risks, meaning parasites that can pass between animals and people. They explain when veterinary professionals should contact public health or other appropriate officials.
What it means for pet owners
The guidelines are aimed at professionals, but the message reaches owners through the clinic. Co-chair Kathryn Duncan stressed that parasite control needs a multimodal approach rather than a single solution, and that communicating well with clients is part of it. Co-chair Jason Stull highlighted discussing disease risks to both people and pets, and addressing client concerns and barriers to using antiparasitic drugs, including medication hesitancy.
If you are unsure about a parasite medicine, or hesitant to give one, say so. Your veterinarian can explain the reasons for a recommendation and the risks to your household. Do not start, stop or change any treatment on your own. Call your veterinarian with questions about your dog or cat, especially if your pet seems unwell.
Questions worth asking your vet
- Which parasites are a concern for my pet where we live?
- Which test or protection do you recommend, and why?
- Could any of these parasites affect the people in my home?
What happens next
The guidelines are available now through the AAHA website. The source does not say which parasites made the list of 12, so owners who want specifics should ask their veterinary team how the guidance applies to their pet and their area.
Source: Veterinary Practice News
